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London - Loose forward Ernst Joubert has confirmed that he will retire from rugby at the end of the month.
The 35-year old South African, who has starred for Saracens since his arrival at the club in 2009, will hang up his boots after a stellar career where he represented the men in black on 160 occasions.
Joubert is the grandson of former Springbok flank Piet Malan, who died at the age of 96 earlier this year. Malan was the oldest living Springbok before his death.
Speaking on his upcoming retirement from the game, Joubert told the Saracens’ official website: “I’ve had an amazing time at Saracens. There’s definitely a tinge of sadness when you make the decision to hang up your boots, but I’m overwhelmed and joyful when I think of all the great memories I’ve made here.
“There’s so many memories of my six years it’s hard to single any out. Being part of the club and seeing the club grow has been a real stand-out. When I came in here the club was going through a massive change up, and from that point, Saracens has become one big family. I never imagined in my wildest dreams that I’d be here for six years. The way the club has looked after me and my family has been amazing, and it almost makes it even more difficult to leave, but at 35 years old it’s time to crack on with other things.”
Saracens Director of Rugby Mark McCall paid tribute to Joubert’s contribution to the club: “Ernst has been a truly fantastic player during his six years at Saracens. He has played a huge role in helping us become a side that is challenging on the field and has been extremely important in establishing a brilliant culture off the field. I’m sure all Saracens fans will give Ernie the send-off he so richly deserves.”
