Ronan O'Gara bade farewell to Racing 92 on Friday night after four-and-a-half years at the club. Following Racing's victory against Toulouse, O'Gara had some words for the players and staff of the club.
The 40-year-old is departing the Top 14 side for the southern hemisphere. From January 1st, he will take up the role of backs coach with the Canterbury Crusaders - an immensely intriguing path to take in his coaching career.
Before receiving a hug from club owner Jacky Lorenzetti, O'Gara told the dressing that it was a difficult situation to leave. He also added that his door - more likely phone line - will always be open to those he worked with at Racing.
I have five kids, four of them going away speaking fluent French. The rugby was brilliant, it was challenging at times, but it is why we play. We have each other's back.
It is difficult to leave that kind of a setting behind, but more important it is difficult to leave the men behind. I look upon it as a pause to grow myself.
The door is always open, I am always available. I will look out for each and every one of ye. It has been a pleasure lads, thank you and take care.
Merci.
Le discours de "Goodbyes" de Ronan O'Gara #R92ST #LateRC pic.twitter.com/cf1EiX9F1j
— Late Rugby Club (@LateRugbyClub) December 22, 2017
Even if you do not speak French, there's still much to enjoy about his post-match interview.
Ronan O'Gara s'exprime après #R92ST, son dernier match avec le @racing92: "Je ne vais jamais oublier mes 4 ans et demi ici"#LateRC pic.twitter.com/jfOMHK7Ju7
— Late Rugby Club (@LateRugbyClub) December 22, 2017
