Danny
16-03-2006, 12:15 PM
Has struggled to recover from blurred vision symptoms following multiple head knocks over the past two seasons. He again complained of blurred vision after playing against the Force on the weekend.
Elton Flatley retires from rugby
March 16, 2006 - 11:29AM
SMH
Queensland and Wallabies veteran Elton Flatley has shocked the rugby union world after announcing his sudden retirement from the game just five rounds into the Super 14 season.
Flatley cited continued blurred vision as the reason behind his premature retirement at age 28.
He made his debut for the Queensland Reds as an 18-year-old in 1996 and became the youngest player to play 100 games for the state when he reached the milestone in 2004.
Flatley, a standout for the Wallabies in their 2003 World Cup final loss to England, has suffered a series of head knocks over the past few seasons and complained of blurred vision following the Reds' win over the Western Force last weekend.
Flatley said the decision was a tough one.
"It was a very emotional decision but one that has been made not only in the best interests of Queensland rugby, but also for myself and my family," he said.
"I would like to thank all the medical staff at Queensland rugby and the ARU for their wonderful support over the years.
"I'd also like to thank everyone I've been involved with in rugby. I've had a wonderful time playing but it's time to move on.
"I look forward to spending time with my wife Kahli and my children Eva and Josh, and to pursuing a career in business."
QRU chief executive Theo Psaros said Flatley made the right choice in putting his health first.
"It's a great shame for Queensland and Australia that Elton is retiring today, but his health and welfare should come first," he said.
"Elton is giving up the game he loves but its the right decision."
Elton Flatley retires from rugby
March 16, 2006 - 11:29AM
SMH
Queensland and Wallabies veteran Elton Flatley has shocked the rugby union world after announcing his sudden retirement from the game just five rounds into the Super 14 season.
Flatley cited continued blurred vision as the reason behind his premature retirement at age 28.
He made his debut for the Queensland Reds as an 18-year-old in 1996 and became the youngest player to play 100 games for the state when he reached the milestone in 2004.
Flatley, a standout for the Wallabies in their 2003 World Cup final loss to England, has suffered a series of head knocks over the past few seasons and complained of blurred vision following the Reds' win over the Western Force last weekend.
Flatley said the decision was a tough one.
"It was a very emotional decision but one that has been made not only in the best interests of Queensland rugby, but also for myself and my family," he said.
"I would like to thank all the medical staff at Queensland rugby and the ARU for their wonderful support over the years.
"I'd also like to thank everyone I've been involved with in rugby. I've had a wonderful time playing but it's time to move on.
"I look forward to spending time with my wife Kahli and my children Eva and Josh, and to pursuing a career in business."
QRU chief executive Theo Psaros said Flatley made the right choice in putting his health first.
"It's a great shame for Queensland and Australia that Elton is retiring today, but his health and welfare should come first," he said.
"Elton is giving up the game he loves but its the right decision."