Wallabies stalwart to hang up his boots in emotional statement as ‘taxi driver’ duties await

Wallabies legend Sekope Kepu has announced he will retire from professional rugby at the end of Super Rugby Pacific 2024 after a 110-cap international career.

The 38-year-old, who played in three Rugby World Cups, made his debut for Australia in 2008 and was also a Waratahs stalwart in a well travelled rugby journey.

He played for the Waratahs from 2008 to 2019 and also turned out for Bordeaux-Begles in the Top 14 and London Irish in the Premiership before returning south.

Moana Pasifika skipper

Kepu has spent the last three seasons with Moana Pasifika and was named their inaugural captain, but this campaign will be the last dance for the Wallaby prop.

“In the last couple of weeks it’s sort of dawned on me that this is the right time. Everybody that retires says you know when it’s time. All I dreamt of was to play rugby professionally and I have been very blessed to do that. While I will miss it, I’m looking forward to being there for my kids,” said the front-rower.

“My wife (Anna) and kids (Faith-Rose, Israel, Isaiah and Steven-Judah) have had to sacrifice a lot for me to be able to play for this long. I’m forever grateful for their love and support over the years. I’ve been very fortunate that my kids have been able to watch Dad play. Now it’s time for Dad to be their taxi driver to their sports games on the weekends.”

He added: “I just want to thank the fans because without them we don’t have a game. My parents as well, the old man used to come to my training and games every weekend and that planted the seed.”

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The Wallabies veteran admits he is eager to move into coaching in the future and views that path as being the perfect opportunity to stay in touch with the game.

“I’ll miss the camaraderie and the brotherhood. Going to work with 40 of your best mates,” he said.

“I’ll miss the travel, the nerves and excitement on the bus ride into the stadium and seeing the fans out there.”

He added: “I’m focused on finishing off the 2024 season strong with Moana Pasifika.”

Moana Pasifika CEO Pelenato Sakalia said: “Moana Pasifika was blessed to have Sekope as our inaugural captain in 2022. The video of the moment Sekope was announced as the captain will live long in the memory as it captured the raw emotion and how special it was for all.

“His extensive experience and leadership meant we had a Captain during the covid affected season that was able to lead the team and look after the boys during these trying times.

Set high standards

“Sekope set high standards and wouldn’t accept anything less than what was required to enable the team to perform.

“His longevity in the game ensured the wealth of knowledge he had accumulated was brought to benefit Moana Pasifika in our inaugural year when he was captain.

“His presence within our environment was inspirational and lifted everyone to greater levels,” Sakalia continued.

“Moana Pasifika will be forever grateful for what Sekope has brought to this movement. His deeds on the field are well documented, but it was what he has done off the field for us these past three years that will leave an enduring legacy.

“On behalf of Moana Pasifika we wish Sekope and his much loved family all the best for the future.”

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