London Scottish centre, Gary Trueman, has today announced his retirement from rugby. Following a long and distinguished professional rugby career, Gary has decided that due to the pressures of his successful career outside of rugby, he will be hanging up the boots with immediate effect.
Formerly a Premiership player with Worcester Warriors and Saracens for over 10 years, Gary joined Scottish when the Club was in National 3 South and was a key part of the subsequent promotions enjoyed by the Exiles.
Head Coach Simon Amor paid tribute to Gary’s influence on the squad: “Gary has been a fantastic servant for this club. He joined when we were in National 3, and has left the club in the Championship which illustrates Gary’s influence perfectly. He’s been a Club Captain, a great leader and a critical part of our success over the last few years.
His contribution to Scottish’s development in recent years cannot be overstated and it is with great sadness that we see him leave the Club.”
London Scottish CEO Tony Copsey also took the opportunity to thank Gary for his contribution: “Gary has proven himself as a great ambassador for London Scottish, and an integral part of a very successful period for London Scottish. His Premiership experience and leadership abilities were vital in achieving the Club’s current Championship status, and his ability to inspire and guide younger players during this period was invaluable. We look forward to welcoming him back down to the Athletic Ground for many years to come.”
Gary issued the below statement outlining his decision:
“Deciding to retire hasn't been an easy decision and one that I didn't envisage making mid-season. Ever since I first met with Club President Rod Lynch in2008 to discuss joining London Scottish he, and the Club as a whole, have always been fully supportive of me developing my career alongside rugby. It's a testament to how far the club has come in 4 years that the sheer commitment and physical demands now required to perform in the 1st XV at Championship level has proved so difficult for me to commit to as my work demands have also increased. After spending a considerable amount of time discussing retirement with friends, family and Simon, I felt that it was the right time to hang the boots up
I have so many amazing memories from my time at Scottish, but one I will never forget is the image of Howellsy running the length of the Barking pitch to seal promotion to the Championship. It was an unbelievable day for the club and a very proud moment for me personally to fulfil the promise I made to Rod when I joined.
I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved as a club during my 4 years at Scottish, and skippering the team for 2 promotions in 3 seasons is an honour that I will continue to be proud of long into retirement. I have met some fantastic people and made some great friends since joining London Scottish and I look forward to watching the club continue to push for top flight rugby in the stands with a cold beer in my hand!”
Everyone at London Scottish wishes Gary well for the future. The Club will be holding a presentation ceremony prior to the London Welsh game in order to thank Gary for his contribution to London Scottish’s success.
Gary Trueman:
Date of Birth: 21/08/80
Nationality: England
Position: Centre
Weight: 97 Kg
Height: 185 Cm
Player History:
08/08 -1/12 London Scottish
12/07-06/08 Moseley
09/01-08/08 Worcester
09/97-06/01 Saracens
