Dragons flanker Griffiths retires
- Published
Dragons flanker Ollie Griffiths has retired from professional rugby aged 29 due to ongoing health problems.
In October, he revealed he is suffering from a rare condition - Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) - after being diagnosed with a tumour on his spine.
While Griffiths said his treatment is "progressing well", he revealed that complications have led to "nerve issues" that has seen him call time on his rugby career.
Griffiths made 105 appearances for Dragons and played one international for Wales, against Tonga in Auckland in June 2017. He also represented Wales in an uncapped match against the Barbarians in November 2019 in Cardiff.
"It’s with a mix of emotions that I announce my retirement from professional rugby after over a decade of playing for Dragons RFC," Griffiths said.
"In early 2024, I was diagnosed with Langerhans cell histiocytosis. Although my treatment has been progressing well, and I remain optimistic about the outcome, complications have led to nerve issues that prevent me from returning to the field.
"My rugby career has had its share of injuries and setbacks, and for a long time I thought the break I was waiting for might finally come.
"But looking back, I realise that these challenges helped me build resilience - something that’s helped me deal with these last few difficult months."
Griffiths last played for Dragons against Sharks in the Challenge Cup in January 2024, a match which proved to be his final appearance.
"This isn’t the ending I had imagined, but it’s a powerful reminder of how unpredictable life can be," added Griffiths.
"Though I didn’t accomplish every goal I set, I poured everything I had into every game, every training session, and every opportunity.
"That’s why I can walk away from my career with pride and peace, knowing I have no regrets. The only thing you truly have control over is your effort and attitude - not the outcomes."
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LCH is a rare disorder that can damage tissue or cause lesions to form in one or more places in the body.
Histiocytes are types of white blood cells which help fight infection. In LCH, histiocytes grow excessively and can gather in bones, skin, lymph nodes, lungs, bone marrow or the pituitary gland.
This can cause a variety of problems such as pain in the bone, skin rash, swollen tummy, or breathing difficulties.
"I believe everything happens for a reason, and this diagnosis has given me a new perspective on what really matters: my health," Griffiths added.
"Rather than feeling disappointed about how my career has ended, I feel incredibly fortunate and grateful for the perspective this experience has given me."
Newport-born Griffiths developed at the Dragons' academy and also played for Newport RFC before making his regional debut in 2014.
"Playing for Dragons RFC for over a decade and representing Wales has been the greatest honour of my career," he said.
"The highlight will always be standing on the field at the Principality Stadium, singing the anthem, and feeling the pride of seeing my family in the stands.
"Nothing will ever compare to running out at Rodney Parade alongside friends I’ve battled with for years, leaving everything on that pitch together.
"Rugby isn’t just a physical sport, it’s a deeply emotional experience, going out there every week to put your body on the line. I don’t think anything will match the feeling of being in the trenches with my mates, giving it everything I had.
"Those were the moments I cherished most - win or lose - knowing I gave my all. That’s something I’ll miss deeply and always be grateful for.
"Thank you to everyone who’s been a part of my career."