Coventry centre-half Will Chudley has announced his retirement from rugby at the end of the season.
The 36-year-old has spent the past season and a half in the Championship after joining Coventry following the liquidation of his former club Worcester Warriors in 2022.
He has made a huge impact on the club since then, helping them to their best ever finish last season, a third-place finish, which they can improve on this season as the club currently sits in second place with three games remaining.
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Chudley played for various clubs across England throughout his career, but spent the bulk of his time with Exeter Chiefs. He made nearly 150 appearances for the Chiefs between 2012 and 2018, coming off the bench in the 2017 Gallagher Premier League final win over Wasps. During that period, he also represented England against the Barbarians in 2015.
The scrum-half plans to become a full-time financial advisor in his life after rugby, which he did alongside playing for Coventry. He hopes to stay in rugby though.
Chudley started in Coventry's recent 52-26 win over Nottingham, and will be pivotal as his side seek a strong end to the season, facing fourth-placed Bedford Blues on Saturday, and third-placed Cornish Pirates in their final game.
“I've had a great time here at the Cove,” Chudley said after announcing his retirement. “It was great meeting Razor (Alex Rae) and Scays (James Scaysbrook); They are great individuals and excellent coaches.
“Coventry became my refuge during a period of uncertainty and fear with Worcester, and coming here has proven to be one of the best choices I have ever made.
“The team dynamic and culture fostered by the coaches, John Sharp and Nick Johnston make this place really special, and I'm confident this group will only get better.
“Without a doubt, I loved every minute of my time as a Cove dog.”
Coventry coach Alex Ray added: “I'm sad that Will won't be there next year but I want to congratulate him on a fantastic run.
“First and foremost, he is a great person and role model for our young group.
“His performance on the pitch has him ranked ninth in this league; he has added a lot.
“We are delighted to be able to give Will an enjoyable couple of years, and it's great to see him go out with a smile on his face.
“He will always be welcome at Boots and I hope we see a lot more of him.”
