Rugby star Collins Injera hangs his boots
Rugby sevens legend Collins Injera has announced his retirement after 17 years in the sport.
In a statement on Tuesday, January 24, Injera, who is the all-time top scorer in the country and the second all-time top scorer in the HSBC World Sevens Series, said he decided to hang his boots after "listening" to his body.
"Everything must come to an end, sometime. I have always said that I will know it's time, because my body will tell me. And for the past few months it has really 'spoken' to me so, finally, I have decided to listen to it," he said.
"As hard as this is for me, after 17 years of literal blood, sweat and tears, it's time to step away from this great game that has given me so much more than I could ever ask for."
He thanked God for the strength to play and opportunities that came his way, saying he looks forward to spending quality time with his wife Chebet and children, who have been supportive in his career.
"Thank you, Lord, for giving me the strength, opportunities, and protection to be able to play the game I really love for this long," Injera added.
"To my wife Chebet and my kids; Chloe, Clyde, and Carl, thank you very much for all the love, support and understanding you have given me all these years.
"Those days, weeks, and sometimes months that you have endured without my presence as I was busy chasing my dream across the globe are finally over. It's now time for me to spend much-needed quality time with you."
Injera also attributed his success in Rugby to prayers from his parents and support from his brothers, coaches, teammates and partners.
"Thank you, mum, dad and Linda, for all the prayers, advice, and support. My brothers, Tall and Mike, we did it! We managed to play together both locally and internationally," he said.
"T all my teammates, coaches, management and opponents, thank you all for the memories we have created both on and off the field. We have shared some very high and low moments together. Thank you for being part of my journey and helping me achieve my dreams."
He said he looks forward to participating more in humanitarian work during his free time.
Everything must come to an end, sometime. I have always said that I will know it’s time, because my body will tell me. And for the past few months it has really ‘spoken’ to me so, finally, I have decided to listen to it. I hope I made you all proud.#279Out#C11 pic.twitter.com/MrOhdxswMy— Collins Injera, OGW, OLY (@cinjera) January 24, 2023
