Former England lock Dave Attwood to retire at end of season

Bath Rugby lock Dave Attwood has announced his decision to retire from professional rugby at the end of the ongoing season.

Attwood had a stellar 18-year career during which he amassed over 350 appearances. His majority of career was with Bath Rugby playing for them initially between 2011 and 2019 before rejoining them in 2022.

He also had stints with Bristol, Gloucester and Toulon as well as National League rugby with Dings Crusaders while also representing England on 24 occasions.

“I have loved every minute of being a rugby player,” Attwood said in a statement released by the club.

“At times, it’s been hard. This job is so taxing on you both physically and mentally. But it’s also given me so much. It’s been fun and full of joy and friendships.

"Physically pushing yourself along with your teammates to find how far you are able to go. I’ve built bonds and bridges that will last a lifetime.

“It’s been hard on my family. I look at my children, Jess and Patrick, who are my biggest fans, and I think about how my mum and dad have watched me get battered every week for almost 20 years… but they supported me and helped me every day. I’ll never be able to thank them enough."