Ollie Griffiths has today announced his retirement from professional rugby on medical grounds with immediate effect.
The 29-year-old back row forward made 105 appearances for the Men of Gwent over ten seasons, scoring six tries along the way.
Newbridge-born Griffiths became the club’s 36th centurion when he made his 100th appearance against Edinburgh in October 2023.
His final appearance came against Hollywoodbets Sharks in January 2024, and he will now hang up his boots due to medical reasons.
In his retirement statement Ollie Griffiths said: “It’s with a mix of emotions that I announce my retirement from professional rugby after over a decade of playing for Dragons RFC.
“In early 2024, I was diagnosed with Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis. Although my treatment has been progressing well, and I remain optimistic about the outcome, complications have led to nerve issues that prevent me from returning to the field.
“I believe everything happens for a reason, and this diagnosis has given me a new perspective on what really matters: my health. Rather than feeling disappointed about how my career has ended, I feel incredibly fortunate and grateful for the perspective this experience has given me.
“Playing for Dragons RFC for over a decade and representing Wales has been the greatest honour of my career. The highlight will always be standing on the field at the Principality Stadium, singing the anthem, and feeling the pride of seeing my family in the stands.
“Nothing will ever compare to running out at Rodney Parade alongside friends I’ve battled with for years, leaving everything on that pitch together.
“As one chapter closes, another opens, and I’m looking forward to giving my business passions the same dedication and drive I brought to my rugby career. I’m excited to see what new opportunities lie ahead.”
Read Ollie’s full retirement statement HERE
A product of the club’s academy system, Griffiths has always been a firm fan favourite at Rodney Parade with his all-action approach to the game and dedication.
Dragons RFC is now pleased to announce that Ollie has been awarded a testimonial year with the club in 2025, that will be chaired by Gavin Rees. For more information fans can contact info@dragonsrfc.wales.
David Wright, Chairman at Dragons RFC, said: “On behalf of everyone at Dragons, I would like to thank Ollie for his huge contribution to our club over a decade of service.
“It is a sad day for our club with the news that Ollie has had to retire on medical grounds as he continues his treatment. He has always tackled every challenge in his career head-on and we know he will now continue to do that away from the action. He has our utmost admiration and total support.
“Ollie is a one-club man who epitomises what it is to be a Dragon and we are therefore delighted that he is to be awarded a testimonial year with us in 2025.
“Ollie will always be a Dragon, always be a huge part of our club, and wish him and his family the very best as they start the next chapter of their lives together.”
Diolch Ollie.
I believe everything happens for a reason, and this diagnosis has given me a new perspective on what really matters: my health. Rather than feeling disappointed about how my career has ended, I feel incredibly fortunate and grateful for the perspective this experience has given me...
