Lions player puts farming ahead of rugby and quits the game

Golden Lions loose-forward Warwick Tecklenburg has decided to put farming ahead of rugby and has quit the game with immediate effect.

The agriculture calling has been one the bruising flanker has been avoiding for some time but something had to give.

Tecklenburg played an unsung but crucial role in the Lions' march to the Super Rugby final last year with his breakdown and defensive work.

“I have many special memories of our achievements as a team‚ from winning the Vodacom Cup in 2013 up until last years’ Vodacom Super Rugby final‚" he said.

"It has always been my intention to join my family in the family farming business after rugby. It has been a very difficult decision to make but I feel the time is right for me to move on.”

Tecklenburg joined the Lions from the Bulls in 2013 when he was deemed surplus to requirements at Loftus Versfeld.

He also played for Japanese Top League East side Kamaishi Seawaves.

He was part of the relegated Lions side that won the 2013 Vodacom Cup and while he represented the Lions in 44 Super Rugby matches‚ 16 of them came in last year's extended campaign.

That is how crucial he was to their cause.

Lions coach Johan Ackermann did well to build depth during last year's Currie Cup when he rested some players‚ but said Tecklenburg's absence will be felt.

“The team and I want to thank Warwick for his great contribution to the Lions. His role was massive in making the Union a proud union again.

"Warwick’s character was inspiring to the team and you always knew what you got from him and that was 100%‚” Ackermann said.