By Paul Jones
Ollie Griffiths has revealed his gratitude for the perspective given to him by the health issues which have forced him to retire from rugby.
The Dragons and Wales back row man has spoken of his new attitude to his life on and off the field after hanging up his boots at the age of 29 due to illness.
Two months ago, Griffiths disclosed he was suffering from a rare condition – Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) – after being diagnosed with a tumour on his spine.
“In early 2024 I was diagnosed with Langerhans cell histiocytosis. Although my treatment has been progressing well and I remain optimistic about the outcome, complications have led to nerve issues that prevent me from returning to the field,” said Griffiths.
“I believe everything happens for a reason and this diagnosis has given me a new perspective on what really matters – my health. Rather than feeling disappointed about how my career ended I feel incredibly fortunate and grateful for the perspective this experience has given me.
| Ollie Griffiths’ full statement following his immediate retirement from professional rugby on medical grounds.
Ollie made more than 100 appearances for Dragons RFC, we wish him all the best in his future!
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— Dragons RFC (@dragonsrfc) December 3, 2024
“Playing for the Dragons for more than a decade and representing Wales have been the greatest honours of my career.
The highlight will always be standing on the field at Principality Stadium, singing the anthem and feeling the pride of seeing my family in the stands.
“Nothing will ever compare t running out at Rodney parade alongside friends I’ve battled with for years, leaving everything on that pitch together.
“As one chapter closes, so another opens. I’m looking forward to giving my business passions the same dedication and drive I brought to my rugby career. I’m excited to see what new opportunities lie ahead.”
A dynamic force with ball in hand and at the breakdown, Griffiths won 10 caps for Wales U20 in 2014 and 2015 and became the youngest captain in the history of Newport RFC as he rose through the ranks before becoming a Dragons regular.
The first of his 105 games for the Dragons – he became their 36th centurion – came against Ulster in 2014 while he was in the Dragons Academy.
He reached his century at Rodney Parade against Edinburgh in October 2023 and made his last appearance against the Sharks in January this year.
His eye-catching displays for the Dragons side earned him a call-up for the Wales senior tour to play Tonga and Samoa in 2017. He made his international debut against Tonga in Auckland in June 2017. He then also faced the Barbarians in an uncapped match in the Welsh capital.
Dragons chairman David Wright announced on hearing the news of Griffiths’ retirement that the player who has been so admired by fans over the past decade has been awarded a testimonial year with the club in 2025. It will be chaired by Gavin Rees.
“It’s a sad day for our club with the news that Ollie has had to retire on medical grounds as he continues his treatment. He has always tackled every challenge in his career head-on and we know he will now continue to do that away from the action – he has our utmost admiration and total support,” said Wright.
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