Ospreys out-half James Hook has announced that he will retire from the game at the end of the season.
Hook won 81 caps for his country and he is fourth on the all-time points scorer list for Wales. The former Lion released a statement on his social media accounts this morning.
Hey Guys,
Just want to let you know that I’ll be retiring from the game of rugby that I love so much, at the end of this season.
I've been privileged to do what I love for so long. Never in my wildest dreams,… https://t.co/T5SYLSpPwt— James William Hook (@hookjameshook) January 13, 2020
The post read:
"I've been privileged to do what I love for so long. Never in my wildest dreams, starting out as a 5-year-old playing for Aberavon Quins, did I think I’d experience what I have in the game.
"Rugby has given me so many incredible experiences which has allowed me to travel and live in some of the best places. Every team I have played for since the start has shaped my journey and given me incredible memories that I will always treasure.
Thanks
Hook went on the thanks all of his clubs, and the barbarians, Lions and the Welsh national team. He also thanked the fans, his teammates and his family.
"Massive thanks to all the fans who supported me throughout the highs and lows of my career. I’m truly grateful and have appreciated your support so much."
"Thank you to the people who have made my dreams possible - my teammates, coaches, backroom staff, parents, grandparents, brother, sister, my in-laws, along with my friends, sponsors and my agent Derwyn.
"Lastly, but by no means least, thank you to my amazing wife Kim, and our three sons - you’ve been my rock and constant, lived it with me and backed me every step of the way.
"It’s been an unbelievable ride and I’ll attack my next adventures in the same way that I always approached the game, and that is - play what’s in front, take a few risks, and do it all with as much positivity as I can possibly bring."
The out-half enjoyed a decorated career. Hook won the Six Nations with Wales, two Pro 14 titles in his first stint with Ospreys and a European Challenge Cup in his time at Gloucester.
The future for James Hook will involve coaching, he has already started getting his badges, but he will also be a children's author, with the former Wales international set to release a series of children's books. The first will be on sale in the spring.
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