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Joe Atkinson announces decision to retire
Bedford Blues can confirm openside flanker Joe Atkinson has announced he will retire from rugby at the end of the 2021/22 Championship season to move back home to the family farm.
One of the Championship’s best back row forwards of the last decade, making over 150 appearances in the second tier, Atkinson has decided to hang up his boots following the conclusion of our cup campaign.
A mainstay in the side since joining the Blues in 2019 from Premiership outfit Wasps, he has made 51 appearances to date, scoring five tries, with highlights including some fantastic Boxing Day performances, a memorable try against Hartpury behind-closed-doors and the away victory at this season’s champions, Ealing Trailfinders.
Leading the team in recent weeks during the absence of Rich Lane, the 30-year-old will leave the Blues with the best wishes of the Club for his future endeavours.
Director of Rugby, Mike Rayer said: “Atko has been a great person to work with in the last three years, setting really high standards ever since he joined the club and probably since Christmas, has played his best rugby.
“His leadership really shone through when he first arrived and now more recently, he has stepped up to lead the team and shown his worth in that regard as well.
“It’s a massive shame that he will be leaving us, but I fully understand his situation and wish him well with his future endeavours. He’s going to be missed.”
Atkinson, who started his transition away from rugby the season prior to the pandemic, carrying out several part-time roles, has remained an ultimate professional on the pitch and added real value in the coveted no.7 jersey.
He added: “I have absolutely loved my three seasons at the club. The culture that Mike has nurtured over the years has made the training and playing environment unrivalled in the Championship.
“The thing I’m going to miss the most is that when you go to ‘work’, you’re playing the game you love with a bunch of your mates. On the pitch, there has never been a dull moment and I’ve really enjoyed playing the high tempo and expansive Bedford style of play.
“A huge thank you to the supporters who are second to none. I am going to miss the roar of a packed Goldington Road. Bring on the remainder of the cup!”
