What a journey! Today I announce my retirement from professional rugby due to injury. A game that’s given me so much happiness and will continue to be a big part in my life.
Ever since I was a young boy, I dreamed of playing in big stadiums - more often than not doubting whether that would ever be my fate. Sometimes struggling to find a reason why I was still giving it my all with no clear path or light at the end of the tunnel.
Present me can look back and tell myself how proud I am for believing in me even when the future wasn’t looking bright. Through positivity, belief, and work ethic (and a bit of luck), I made my dream a reality. I’m a big believer in you create your own luck and there’s no point in being lucky if you aren’t prepared for what lucky brings.
My career has been short but very sweet and I will look back at this chapter with massive pride and astonishment. I have no doubt it will leave me in good stead for whatever life has in store for. If my life so far is anything to go by, I’m sure it will be very exciting.
I’d just like to take this moment to thank everyone who has made my career possible.
Thank you to Rainey Old Boys RFC for reigniting my love for the game and for giving me a stepping stone to achieve my dreams.
Thank you to Ulster Rugby for taking a chance on me when nobody else would. My time in Belfast was nothing short of amazing and to be honest it was life changing! I’ll forever be grateful for opportunities you presented me with and for the experiences I had the privilege of being involved in.
Thank you to the Dragons for being my home for the last few seasons. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time in Newport and am excited to see what this group can achieve. I have no doubt that the only way is up and that there is a big future ahead of the club.
To all the fans of both clubs, Thank you so much for the support I really appreciate it.
Finally, I would like to thank my friends and family. I am blessed to have such supportive friends and even more supportive parents who backed me all the way.
Mom, you’re a legend and have been my biggest supporter ever since I was a youngster. The sacrifices you made for me have not gone unnoticed and without you this all wouldn’t be possible. I owe you everything. I look forward to all the games of golf we have coming our way.
To Dad, you are my Why. I think about you every day and I wish that you could still be with us to experience it all. I know you’d be so proud of me, and I miss and love you every day. I’m so happy I could honour you both by making you both proud.
Bradley Roberts
My career has been short but very sweet and I will look back at this chapter with massive pride and astonishment. I have no doubt it will leave me in good stead for whatever life has in store...
