Richie Vernon to call time on stellar career

Richie Vernon will retire at the end of the current 2018/19 season after a remarkable thirteen-year career at the highest level.

Vernon joined London Scottish last summer from Glasgow Warriors and began his transition to life after rugby as he started work with main sponsor Aberdeen Standard Investments alongside his training and playing commitments.

The 24-time capped Scotland international began life with Border Reivers before heading to Glasgow Warriors in the first of two spells where he made just under 100 appearances over a remarkable nine year career in Glasgow.

Vernon was also a part of the Warriors squad that won the 2015 Pro12 title and started the semi-final at Scotstoun and the final as they beat Munster in Belfast at the Kingspan Stadium.

As well as a spell with the Sale Sharks in the Premiership where the back rower, who converted to a centre later in his career, accumulated 48 appearances, Vernon also appeared in both the 2011 World Cup in New Zealand and the 2015 World Cup in England.

This season Richie has been a focal point of the London Scottish side. He has featured 14 times, scoring one try in a man of the match performance in January against Nottingham at the RAG. Vernon’s vast experience has also meant he has led the Scots on a couple occasions this season as captain.

Richie will call time on his professional rugby career and will now focus on life after rugby working in the City.

“After 13 years of professional rugby I know the time is right to hang up the boots. It’s been an incredible experience and one that has allowed me to realise the dreams I had as a young man in representing Scotland and winning a league title with the Warriors. After working for Aberdeen Standard this season, now is the time for me to build my new career in the city and I am really excited for the challenge” said Vernon.

He continued, “I’d like to thank my wife Sophie and my Mum and Dad for their support throughout my career. I’ve been lucky to play for some great clubs with outstanding players, coaches and support staff and I have memories with them that I can treasure for life.”

“I wish London Scottish the best of luck in the future and hope we can end the season on a high.”