Ospreys hooker Scott Otten has announced his retirement from professional rugby with immediate effect.
The 26-year-old has been advised to retire on medical advice, after he suffered a career-ending neck injury against the Dragons in January.
In a statement posted on his social media channels, he revealed that he suffered the injury from a trauma sustained during a scrum. Since then, he has undergone five scans and spent nine weeks in a neck brace before it was advised that he retire from the sport.
Speaking about being forced to quit, Otten said: “As a young kid it was always my dream to represent the Ospreys. I used to have a season ticket with my old man when I was playing for Waunarlwydd and through college, so it’s meant a lot to me.
“It’s been a dream come true and it’s just gut-wrenching and cruel to have it cut short. To say I’ve represented the jersey not just once but 110 times is something I will always be proud of and be able to show my kids one day. It’s not only made me a better player but a better person too.
“I’ve always had unbelievable support here both as a player and a person which was always important for me. The supporters make a rugby team and I just want to say a big thank you to them for everything over the years.
“For me, retirement from rugby has come way too early. There’s a lot of hard work to come. My coffee business SO Coffee is growing nicely at the moment and our coffee shop Humble down in Llanelli is re-opening soon so we’re excited about them.
“I’ve just finished my level two coaching course and looking ahead to my level three then seeing what opportunities are out there for me to become a coach. There’s a lot to think about as a family and seeing what’s best for us.”
A product of the Ospreys development pathway, Otten has been with the Ospreys for a decade - making 110 appearances and scoring 10 tries.
He also played for Wales U20s and was the only Welsh player named in last season's Opta Index PRO14 Conference A Team Of The Season.
Before making his debut for the Ospreys in 2014, he also featured for Aberavon, Neath, Swansea and Waunarlwydd RFC.
“It’s hugely sad when a player’s career is curtailed by injury, but if there is a silver lining, it is that Scott has planned an alternative career, which will no doubt see him flourish," said Ospreys Head Coach Toby Booth.
“He is currently still with us and he is still contributing to our environment which is great and reflects what the Ospreys mean to him.”
We wish Scott all the best for the future. You can leave your messages in the comments section here.
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