Western Force have been dealt an early-season blow with the news that hooker Ryan Tyrrell has been forced to retire due to a neck injury.
Tyrrell made his Super Rugby debut in week two of 2010 against the Hurricanes in Wellington and played four consecutive matches before suffering a neck injury against the Waratahs in Perth which ruled him out for the remainder of the season.
While it was feared that the injury could force him from the game immediately he returned following surgery to be one the best performers in the 2011 pre-season. The switch of focus from the gym to the field however saw pain return to his neck and the 27-year-old had to make the tough call.
Out of contract at the end of 2010, Tyrrell was given an opportunity by coach Richard Graham to prove he was physically and mentally able to contribute again in Super Rugby and was offered an extension before the end of last year.
"Ryan worked extremely hard over the past six months to recover from a neck operation and to become a better rugby player," said Graham speaking to the Force website.
"I had no hesitation in rewarding Ryan with an extended contract for this season given that he'd fulfilled the expectations placed upon him, however he has made the difficult decision in terms of his rugby future to retire and it's unfortunate that it has come about because of injury."
