Leinster exit sinking in, says McLaughlin
Daire Walsh
Former Leinster flanker Kevin McLaughlin admits he has yet to “clear out his locker”, as comes to terms with forced retirement from professional rugby.
McLaughlin was advised last month by medical experts to hang up his boots, due to concerns over his increasing susceptibility to concussion.
However, the 31-year-old, who was appointed skipper for the duration of the World Cup by coach Leo Cullen, is still growing accustomed to life outside the sidelines.
“It’s beginning to hit me. I haven’t cleared out my locker yet, that’ll be a big moment.
“The first week, when I did retire, was absolutely manic with the press release and everything like that,” McLaughlin said.
“But I was lucky enough when I retired that Leo asked me to hang around and help out in terms of a mentoring role, and a coaching role, while so many of the senior lads were away at the World Cup.
“I was absolutely delighted when he asked me.”
McLaughlin wouldn’t have to look far for advice about adapting to such a massive change: Current Leinster scrum coach John Fogarty was forced to retire five years ago because of the same issue.
“I was very lucky, because it was the Leinster medical staff who encouraged me to see a neurologist, so the decision was taken out of my hands.
“In John’s situation five years ago, the knowledge wasn’t as good then, so maybe it took him a little longer to come to his conclusion.
“The great thing is that I look at him and see what he has achieved.
“He’s got a great career as Leinster scrum coach, and he’s able to tell his story and encourage guys to be honest in terms of their own situation.
“And I think that’s very helpful. It’s one thing hearing the IRFU say it, but when it comes from players and peers, I think it’s a lot more powerful.”