Out-going Bristol Bears flanker and legend of the game George Smith has finally called a day on his playing career at the age of 38.
The 111 cap Wallabies international played his final season of rugby for Bristol as he helped Pat Lam’s side finish ninth in the Gallagher Premiership.
The forward came off the bench on Saturday to make his final appearance in the Bears’ 12-19 victory away at Newcastle Falcons.
In a statement released overnight, Smith said. "Finally the day has come where I officially announce my retirement from professional rugby.
"It's been an absolute privilege to play professionally for the past 20 years. Rugby has provided and given me so much. The dreams that I had of playing rugby professionally as a young bloke, I'm fortunate to say that I've lived them and experienced so much more during my time.
"The day my father registered me with the Warringah Roos at four years of age in Manly I found myself returning to the game every year thereafter," Smith said.
"I was extremely lucky in my career to have landed myself in Canberra as a young 19-year-old kid, having the luxury of being tutored by the finest peers and coaches in the game at the ACT Brumbies.
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"I had a great time there and look back fondly. Those early years in Canberra shaped a part of my rugby identity and further encouraged my personal ambitions to better myself as a rugby player.
"I'm also proud of the opportunities I had to represent the Wallabies on numerous occasions in the past. On reflection, the time spent earning those caps were well worth it.
“Looking back I'm pleased with the impression that I leave behind on my playing contribution and it is time now to start looking forward to the next chapter that awaits my family and I.
"Special mention to Eddie Jones, who has been a constant supporter and mentor of mine throughout this time," Smith said.
"The day I rocked up to sign my first Brumbies contract with dreadlocked hair, board shorts and thongs, I think back and shake my head as to why he didn't just turn me away tight there and then.
"I'm grateful for his advice and friendship.”
As reported last week Smith will join Japanese Top League club Suntory Sungoliath as defence coach next season.
Asked whether Bristol tried to keep Smith at the club in a coaching capacity, Bears head coach Pat Lam explained: “His family live back in Australia and he has made a huge commitment to come up here on his own. He has been back a few times but that is the most important thing he wants to get back nearer his family.
“He has a strong relationship in Japan as well, but we will stay in touch and he will be visiting again. It is about celebrating what he has done."
