Brumbies Number 8, Ita Vaea has announced his retirement from professional rugby yesterday, April 11, heeding the advice of Doctors who were concerned with a heart condition. The Wallaby and ‘Ikale Tahi prospect is only 27 years old.

Ita stated “I am extremely disappointed to be retiring today, under these circumstances. It will be hard watching the boys run out, but I know that this is the best decision for myself and my family,”

“It has truly been an honour to represent the Brumbies over the past five years. While my playing career has now ended, I consider myself extremely fortunate to have met and shared experiences with special players and coaches who I can call lifelong friends.”

Ita Vaea who was born in Tonga and raised in New Zealand, first debuted for the Canberra based Brumbies in 2011 and quickly became recognised for his powerful runs and tackling. Ita was forced to miss the 2013 and 2014 Super Rugby seasons as a result of a heart condition. He made an inspirational return in last year’s 2015 season and looked to be in tip-top condition.

Ita stated, “Coming back from this last time was something I never thought I could achieve. I am so blessed that I was given a second opportunity. Now I have to concentrate on the next chapter in my life.

“While I am not sure what is in store for the future, I know that the lessons I have learnt in rugby will serve me well – It is an incredible game, has given me so much more than I could have ever dreamed and I will miss it immensely.

“Thank you to everyone who has made it such a special journey," he said.