Connacht stalwart Swift announces retirement date

Connacht Rugby's longest serving player Michael Swift has announced that he will retire from the game at the end of the current season.

Swift, who is currently recovering from a broken leg and expected to be back to full training in six to eight weeks, has made a record 268 for the Westerners over 15 seasons.

The 37-year-old second row also holds the Pro12 record with 183 appearances. He said it was "surreal" to think he would be retiring.

"Connacht Rugby has been a huge part of my life for over 15 years and it's difficult to imagine no longer being involved," Swift said.

"I've enjoyed every bit of my time with the province and have so many people to thank for the opportunities afforded to me."

Connacht assistant coach, Dan McFarland, paid tribute to his former team-mate, saying: "Michael and I worked together for 16 of the last 17 years and I cannot think of many players I have worked with who have shown as much honesty, endeavour and spirit."

Head coach Pat Lam added: "It was clear from the very start of my time with Connacht Rugby that Swifty was at the core of what this province is about. His work ethic, passion and commitment to Connacht is inspirational to the management, players, sponsors and supporters.

"Swifty has always been a fantastic ambassador for this club and he will be greatly missed."

Born in London in 1977, Swift played for Richmond Rugby Club as a flanker while in university, before spending a season at Leeds Tykes.

He joined Connacht in 2000 and earned his first cap for the province against Ulster that year whilst also playing for Galwegians RFC in the All Ireland League.

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