Harry Simmons retires due to injury, begins coaching role with Leicester Tigers

Leicester Tigers have announced the retirement of Harry Simmons due to medical grounds following a serious eye injury sustained during the Investec Champions Cup match against Leinster in January.

Despite exhaustive efforts to recover and safely return to play, Simmons has made the difficult decision to hang up his boots.

The 26-year-old, who progressed through the Tigers' academy, debuted for the senior team in 2017 against Gloucester.

Over the years, Simmons earned 39 appearances for the club and has now transitioned into a coaching role within Leicester Tigers' performance team.

Reflecting on his decision, Simmons expressed heartfelt gratitude for his time with Leicester Tigers:

"It is with a heavy heart that I’ve been forced to make the difficult decision to hang up my boots and retire from playing professional rugby due to a serious eye injury back in January."

Simmons described his nine years with the Tigers as a dream fulfilled, adding: "It had always been a dream of mine to play for this club and I am so proud to have been lucky enough to be able to do so."

He thanked his teammates, coaches, and the loyal Tigers fans for their unwavering support, while also acknowledging his family for helping him navigate the challenges of the past year.

Although his playing career has ended prematurely, Simmons is excited about the opportunity to give back to the club in a new capacity.

"I’m excited to begin my coaching journey here and I am looking forward to what the future holds.

"Like I gave everything whilst playing, I will continue to drive this club and its players forward in every way I can."

Leicester Tigers' General Manager Richard Wilks praised Simmons' resilience and talent, stating: "Harry was tremendously gifted as a rugby player and is loved by staff and teammates here at the club. It’s been difficult for all of us to see his career end this way."