Former All Black Playmaker Calls Time On His Career

Former All Black and Blues flyhalf Luke McAlister has announced his retirement from all forms of the game at the age of 34.

The Waitara born flyhalf attended Westlake Boys High School and went on to represent North Harbour in 2002 before making his Super Rugby debut for the Blues in 2004

A year later he made his test debut against the British and Irish Lions at the age of 21.

McAlister represented the All Blacks at the 2007 Rugby World Cup before he announced that he would join Sale Sharks following the conclusion of the competition. 

He spent two seasons in England before returning to New Zealand in 2009 and represented the Blues in 2010 and 2011 in an attempt to make the All Blacks squad for the 2011 World Cup.

He made the move to France in 2011 signing with Top 14 side Toulouse where he spent 6 years making over 150 appearances before joining Toulon ahead of the 2017/18 season.

He left Toulon halfway through his first year at the club to join Clermont. 

Known for his creativity and attractive style of play McAlister retires having represented his country 30 times scoring 150 points.

 

It’s a good time to let you all know that I have called it a day on my rugby career. It’s been one hell of a ride, 17 years travelling the globe doing what I love. I’m so grateful for the friendships that I’ve made as well as the endless memories. Theres been so many highs and lows along with a shit load of injuries. There’s been so much work put in over the years, that you guys don’t see as well as balancing my family life. Massive thanks to my family for your support over the years. I’ve had some tough times over my career and you guys have always been there by my side no matter what. My beautiful kids you’re the reason I breathe I love you two more than anything in this world. Thanks Amanda and Brooke for making trips over with them both, FaceTiming and including me in what’s going on when i can’t be around. Mum and dad, I wouldn’t be here right now if it wasn’t for you both so thank you for everything 😘. My friends you know who you are, your unconditional love and support means everything to me. And lastly the fans you guys, thanks for your support over the years. I have and will always have time for you guys I would be nothing without you all and your support thanks so much. I’m proud of my career and what I’ve done in this beautiful sport now it’s time for the next chapter which is to move back to the best city in the world Toulouse ( a little biased 😉 ). I will travel the world as a tourist and spend quality time with my beautiful family and friends as well as looking into my family business interests. Plus enjoying some social rugby 10s/7s tournaments around the world 🏉. Now you can follow my NEXT CHAPTER.🤙🏽 Thanks again and god bless. P.s special mention to my 🐶🐶🐶🐶Skippy my og, Minnie mins, Poppy and Boston. 😊

A post shared by Luke Mcalister (@mcalisterluke10) on Jun 30, 2018 at 2:29am PDT