WING Andy Short has retired from rugby at the age of 26 after failing to overcome a recurring hip problem.

Short rose through the Warriors’ ranks, making his debut in 2010 before moving to Bristol in 2013 where he spent two seasons.

He returned to Sixways for a second spell in 2015 but made just eight appearances in the last two campaigns due to injuries.

He said: “I want to thank the players, coaches, fans and most importantly, the people at the club who have put me back together over the years - the physios.

“As I hang up my boots, I will be leaving the game behind with a heavy heart but looking forward to whatever life brings me next.

“My time in the game has been a rollercoaster, with ultimate highs and painful lows, but I wouldn’t change a thing.

“Thank you to everyone I have met along the way, playing the sport I love. I will look forward to following the success of my hometown club with immense pride in the coming seasons.”

Former Hanley Castle High School and Worcester Sixth Form College student Short bagged 10 tries in his 38 appearances for Warriors.

Despite quitting rugby, Short has prepared for life after the game.

He graduated with a first-class honours degree in leadership and management from the University of Northumbria and is now studying for a masters in building surveying.

Warriors equip all players with off-field support to prepare them for life after rugby.

Warriors’ education officer Lynette Cutting said: “It’s never a nice thing when a player has to give up playing but this is one of the reasons why it’s important to support them off the field during their rugby careers.

“Having educational support is vital in making sure the players have something to fall back on when their careers come to an end.

“Sam Smith is another example of a player who had to cut his career short due to injury, but he was able to study alongside his rugby and has now gone on to set up his own coffee shop business in Worcester.

“We’ve got a number of players studying courses and I’m delighted Andy has been able to get his degree and hopefully he will go on to enjoy a new and successful career.”

Director of rugby Gary Gold said: “We would like to thank Andy for his continued efforts over the years and wish him all the best in his next chapter.”