George Clancy hangs up his whistle

Irish referee George Clancy has announced that he will be stepping away from the pitch after 17 years with the whistle.

After a run of bad luck with injuries, Clancy took up refereeing in 2000 and has grown to be a well-respected figure in the rugby fraternity.

Over his career, he officiated in 125 Pro14 games, 75 Heineken Cup matches and 46 tests including two World Cups.

“It has been an unbelievable journey over the last 17 years or so. I don’t think I could sum it all up in one answer,” Clancy told Irishrugby.ie.

“Starting off in the Munster Junior League, it has exceeded all expectations and I’ll reflect on my career with a lot of pride in the months and years to come. It has been a brilliant journey with so many standout memories and refereeing has given me so many opportunities – to make great friends, to travel the world, to keep fit and to be involved in some of the biggest sporting occasions.”