'One hell of a journey': Ex-Wasps back row Thompson calls it quits

Ex-Wasps and Leicester back row Guy Thompson has announced on social media that he will retire from playing at the age of 35 when this season ends with Jersey Reds. The Channel Island club finished fourth in the recently completed Championship that was won by Ealing and they are now involved in a two-legged quarter-final tie with Hartpury in the Championship Cup. 

The teams are tied at 19-all following the first leg and Thompson will hope that a win can be secured in next Friday's rematch to prolong his career for another few games.

It was 2012/13 when Thompson started out as a first-team pro at Jersey following a National One breakthrough at Richmond and it is with the Islanders that his career will now end following five seasons in between at Wasps, two at Leicester and one at Ealing.

"It’s been one hell of a journey but after 13 professional seasons, it’s finally time to retire," wrote Thompson on Instagram. "From European away trips and the Premiership final, to representing two giant Premiership clubs with 100 appearances for Wasps and winning a relegation battle with Tigers... I feel so lucky and privileged to have had the opportunities I had with the teams I represented and the teammates that became family.

"I have played with some great players but, more importantly, some great people. The support I have had from family, friends and supporters, on and off the field, is humbling and something I will never forget. It wouldn’t be right to not to thank my mum here. She sacrificed everything for me growing up and without her none of this would have been possible!

"Thank you Wasps, Tigers, Ealing, Richmond and Jersey, as well as Gloucester and Worcester academies. I always gave my all for whatever shirt I wore and will enjoy moving forward as a fan, supporting the game I love. 

"Jersey has always held a special place in my heart. It’s a place I call home and where I will be staying to start the next exciting chapter. But first, we have got a huge opportunity to win some silverware this season, so the work hasn’t stopped yet! Thank you, everyone. Tommo x."