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Emirates Western Force lock Rudi Vedelago has announced his retirement from professional rugby to manage his family’s business.
The popular and talented big man of the pack sought and was granted an early release from his contract with the Emirates Western Force after his father suffered a health scare.
Vedelago has moved back to Brisbane to manage the business previously run by this father but has not ruled out a return to the game he loves some time in the future.
“Dad had a bit of a scare and it was clear that I needed to be at home and helping with the business, so that’s where I’m at,” Vedelago said.
“I was really looking forward to the 2008 season with the Force but family comes first, and the Force were fully appreciative of that,” he said.
“I had two wonderful years in Perth and hopefully, if I don the boots again down the track, I’ll get back there.”
RugbyWA Chief Executive Peter O’Meara described Vedelago as a popular member of the organization, who had made a big impact both on and off the field.
“Rudi was more than just a fine footballer; he played a key part in setting the tone and the culture of the place, and he will be sorely missed by everyone here,” O’Meara said.
“He knows that if the time is right later to resume playing, he would be welcome back with open arms.”
Vedelago won 25 Super 12 caps with the Queensland Reds before moving to WA in 2005 and becoming an inaugural member of the Emirates Western Force.
Injury kept him out of most of the 2006 season but he had a huge impact in 2007, playing in all 13 games and finishing the season with a career total of 39 Super caps.
The 26 year old also played for the Australian Schoolboys, U19s, U21s and Australia A.