Rugby: Former All Blacks prostitute James Parsons retires on medical advice

Blues hooker and former captain James Parsons has announced his immediate retirement from all of rugby due to repeated concussion-related injuries.

Parsons, a Blues and North Harbor centurion and a two-trial All Black, said he is retiring on medical advice after being out of the game for several months following his last head injury.

The 34-year-old was supposed to play for the Blues this season, but is now expected to be replaced by Bay of Plenty hooker Kurt Eklund.

Parsons (115 games) finished as the fourth-most capped Blues player behind Keven Mealamu, Jerome Kaino and Tony Woodcock.

“First of all, I want to thank NZ Rugby, Blues, North Harbor and Takapuna for the opportunities they have given me,” said Parsons.

“For me it is not about sadness, it is about celebration. I have been very fortunate to represent my two local teams, Blues and North Harbor, more than a hundred times each, which is a dream come true, and to play two tests. for the All Blacks it is something I will never forget.

“I am very grateful to have been a part of these great teams and even more grateful to the people who make them up. To all the coaches, medical teams, staff, management, and teammates that I have had the privilege of working with over the years – my family and I thank you. Your guidance and support have been second to none and I couldn’t ask for a better group of people to work with every day.

“To the loyal fans of the Blues and North Harbor, thank you. You have been incredible throughout my entire career.

“I have studied and acquired a number of skills on and off the field throughout my career that will carry over to the next stage of my life. I am grateful for the opportunities Sky and NZME have provided me in the broadcast space. and I look. I’m eager to explore that more. One thing for sure is that I love this game and will be involved and looking forward to a chance to give back.

“Finally, to my friends and family, a huge thank you for your unwavering support. In particular, to my wife Sam, my daughter Maddy, Mom, Dad, Sarah and Nicholas. I couldn’t have done any of this without your love and her. willingness to sacrifice to allow myself to live my dream. As I finish this chapter, I look forward to the next one and can’t wait to see what that adventure brings me. “

Blues CEO Andrew Hore said it was a sad day for the team.

“But it’s a true celebration that a local kid was able to go from high school to the club, to their provincial union, their Super Team and the All Blacks,” Hore said. “James is ingrained in pride and deeply loves where he lives and who he represents.

“They say a true talisman is a player who does more than can be measured. The level of support that James has provided to his captain and the Blues, both on and off the field, is immeasurable. He cares deeply about our organization and everyone in it and we care deeply about him and his family. They will always be welcome as part of the Blues. “

North Harbor CEO Dve Gibson said Parsons gave his all for every jersey he donned.

“JP is the type of person that every union wants and needs,” Gibson said. “He’s been through a lot, both on and off the field, at Harbor, some good times and challenges, but he’s someone you can always trust, especially when times get tough.

“He is many things to people who know him: a Harbor centurion, a captain, a club man, a teammate, a friend, a family man, and more recently a father. His contribution cannot be measured. but I would like to acknowledge and thank JP on behalf of North Harbor Rugby. We wish him, Sam and his whanau every success in the future. “

The head of the New Zealand Rugby Players Association, Rob Nichol, thanked Parsons for his contribution.

“I want to acknowledge him and thank him for the tireless work he has contributed off the field on behalf of the players as a board member of the New Zealand Rugby Players Association.

“He has always been prepared to participate and seek solutions on behalf of his fellow players. James has a lot to offer rugby in the future and I am confident that he will continue to be a real asset to the sport.”