David Porecki, the Wallabies hooker, has made the surprising announcement that he is retiring from rugby at the age of 32. His decision comes as a shock to many, especially considering he was recently part of the Australian squad gearing up for the highly anticipated three-Test series against the British and Irish Lions. Unfortunately, he had to sit out the third match in Sydney due to a cut on his heel, and he also missed the Wallabies’ 2024 campaign because of a nagging Achilles injury.
Porecki’s retirement seems to have taken many by surprise as the national squad prepares to travel to South Africa for two crucial Rugby Championship matches against the Springboks later this month. Reflecting on his decision, Porecki expressed deep appreciation for the game that has shaped much of his life. “Rugby has given me so much to be thankful for and has been such a massive part of my life for so long, but it feels like the right time for me to turn the page and start a new chapter,” he shared. He emphasized his gratitude to all those who supported him throughout his career and mentioned his eagerness to spend more quality time with his wife, Shani, and their children, Luca, Charli, and Billie. “I look forward to continuing to support the game away from the field in this next stage of my life,” he added.
Porecki’s contributions to the Wallabies were significant; he even took on the role of captain during the 2023 Rugby World Cup after Will Skelton was sidelined with an injury. Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt had some heartfelt words for Porecki, calling him the “ultimate professional and quiet achiever.” He admires how Porecki leads by example and gets things done without seeking the spotlight. Schmidt noted, “He doesn’t say a lot; he just prefers to roll up his sleeves and get to work.” On behalf of the whole team, he sent best wishes to Porecki and his family as they embark on this exciting new chapter in their lives.
NEW VIDEO: There’s nothing quite like an ankle tap tackle in rugby. I’ve clipped up some of the best examples I could find – enjoy!
Full Video: https://t.co/wPzhi6pV3e pic.twitter.com/krSorKJlfy
— Andrew Forde (@andrewfrugby) October 3, 2022
Born in Sydney, Porecki represented both the Wallabies and the NSW Waratahs, a dream he had held since he was a child growing up in Manly. “To wear the Wallaby gold and Waratahs blue was a dream of mine as a boy, and to be able to say I did both is something I’m incredibly proud of,” he expressed.
Waratahs coach Dan McKellar also shared his sentiments on Porecki’s decision, stating that he would be “sadly missed.” Having worked closely with Porecki for several years, McKellar highlighted the respect he has for him, noting his skills on the field, particularly in set pieces, physicality, and toughness. “He’s never been the biggest hooker going around, but he’s always played well above his weight,” McKellar said. Beyond the pitch, he characterized Porecki as a true family man and a genuinely good person, acknowledging that while he will be missed in the Waratahs community, he fully respects Porecki’s choice. “We just wish him all the best,” he concluded.
Porecki’s retirement marks the end of an era, but his impact on rugby and the lives of those around him will certainly endure.
