Will Genia has called time on an incredible career, announcing via social media that he will be hanging the boots up for good.
Sharing a selection of images throughout his career, from the early days with the Wallabies through to his later years in Osaka, Genia acknowledged that he was able to create “memories to last forever”.
“From walking into Ballymore at the end of 2006 as a kid, to travelling the world chasing a ball, it has been more than I ever thought it would be, so much so that it feels like a dream is all it should be,” the former scrum half said.
“Moments in time, experiences shared, lessons learned and memories to last forever. Thank you to my people. It was only possible because of you. You know.
“Thank you to the teams, my teammates, coaches, teachers, friends and all the wonderful people in the game who helped me, guided me, shaped me, included me, put up with me and made me better. Thank you to the fans for making the game what it is.
“Finally… thank you, rugby, for all the joy. It was always the game and then everything else.”
A legend of the game
Born in Papua New Guinea, Genia started his rugby journey when he moved to Brisbane as a youngster, getting to grips with the game while at boarding school. After making the Australian ‘A’ schools team and later the World Championship-winning Australian U19s, Genia was signed by the Reds and never looked back.
He would spend almost the next decade at Queensland before various stints in Paris, Melbourne and, most recently, Osaka. Ending his career with 110 Wallabies caps and a lot more at club level, Genia leaves the playing circuit as a certified legend.
It is at the Hanazono Kintetsu Liners, the club that Genia and Quade Cooper have most recently played their rugby, that the former Wallabies playmakers set their next venture. The two 37-year-olds have joined the coaching staff of the Japanese club, with Genia confirmed as the new skills coach while Cooper has been entrusted with running the attack.
Former Maori All Blacks coach Ross Filipo will also join as forwards coach, with Tai Lavea joining the Liners from Toshiba Brave Lupus Tokyo to lead the defence.
Interestingly, Springbok fly-half Manie Libbok will be coached by the duo next season, as he steps in to replace the talented Cooper in the number 10 jersey.
Respect from former colleagues
Responding to the post on social media, Cooper said: “What a ride my brother. Who would have guessed way back then. It’s funny because we always seemed to find each other through changes in coaches (who I mostly clashed with) to countries, teams and now the other side. It’s been a pleasure and grateful to have done it with you.”
Other players added their respects.
Israel Folau: “Legend bro!!! What a career! All the best with the next chapter of your life!”
David Pocock: “Congrats Willy G! One of the best to do it. Love you brother.”
Samu Kerevi: “Thank you seki. Wouldn’t be where I am without the role you played. You already know how it is.”
James Horwill: “Sanche, congrats on an amazing career mate. Who would have thought little pooh bear from BBC would have achieved what you have. Pleasure and honour to have been involved a small part of it brother. Hope you enjoyed the ride.”
Freddie Burns: “Pleasure to have shared the field with you mate. One of the best on and off the field! All the best with coaching.”
Piri Weepu: “Legend brother!! Massive career bro and have watched over the years with interest! All the best with the next chapter bruv!!”
Berrick Barnes: “Heck of a career Willy G. Was an honour to play outside you for so many years mate and you should be incredibly proud of your impact on the game and the longevity with which you have had also. Exciting next chapter ahead and a wonderful opportunity to pass on all of that knowledge. Congrats again mate.”
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