Fi Fletcher announces retirement

One of Harlequins Women’s longest-serving players Fi Fletcher has announced her retirement from rugby

Fletcher, who holds the record for the second-most appearances for the Club, has hung up her boots following a six-year career in the Famous Quarters.

She joined the Club ahead of the 2016/17 season and has been an ever-present name in the senior squad since, going on to represent the club on 88 occasions. Fletcher went on to earn selection for England and a Test cap for her national side.

Her versatility, dynamism and lineout expertise have become a crucial asset to the Club and played a major role in the Club’s run to the Allianz Premier 15s title in 2021.

Commenting, Fletcher said: “Stepping away from a sport you love is tough but now's the right time for me to focus my energy elsewhere. I've always been proud to have a career alongside playing but unfortunately for me the constant compromise and commitment of both has become unsustainable.

“I'm thankful to Quins for giving me the opportunity to play with some of the best players in the country and for providing me with some great memories. Winning the premiership, playing at Big Game and captaining the first edition of the Game Changer all with my family there supporting are just some of the highlights.

“I've seen huge progressions in Women's rugby but the exciting thing is there's still huge room for growth. I know Quins will want to be at the forefront of positive changes and I'm looking forward to supporting these from the sidelines.

“I step away content in what I've achieved and excited to have a body that feels less broken on a Sunday morning.”