Ian McKinley, That is Nine times he wore the shirt of the Italian rugby team, Marked 3 points, announced today with a long post Instagram, His Withdrawal. Class 1989, Born Irish, after a An eye problem, which prompted him to quit the activity early, In Italy He was able to get a second chance, which made him want to play Leonorso, Vietana, Zebre, Benetton.

This is his Message on Instagram: “Today, the 31st, I officially announce my second retirement from rugby at all levels. My professional life was not traditional. 10 years ago, at the age of 21 I was forced to announce my retirement from Leinster and the Ireland U20, having a left eye puncture and retinal detachment following a gaming injury. This decision was very difficult to accept.

I moved to Udin, Italy as a coach. Three years later, he had the opportunity to become the first player in the world to use rugby goggles and play with more confidence. This comeback created a global movement that sought a higher level of access to the game even though I was an opening midfielder with no vision.

Helping to legalize rugby glasses for the world to use made me happy to see thousands of other blind players playing rugby. It will always give me great achievement and pride. After Barbarians, Pro 14, Champions Cup and Six Nations, I was able to complete my playing career again today, but this time luckily my terms.

I would like to sincerely thank all the teams, coaches and staff I have participated in, from school to international formations. I am indebted to the Irish teams of St. Columbus College, UCD, St. Mary’s College, Leinster Rugby and Ireland U20. I am especially grateful to those in Italy who gave me a second chance: Leonorso, Vietana, Zebrey, Benetton, and of course the Italian national team.

I thank the rugby community in Ireland and Italy for their incredible support from start to finish. And teammates who have become lifelong friends. But most of all, I want to thank my wonderful wife, my family and friends who supported me during my most difficult days and followed me unconditionally throughout my playing field. I can’t wait to face the future, this is the next step“.

Ian McKinley’s Instagram post

Photo: Alfio Guarris LPS