After officially announcing his retirement on social media during a career that spanned over two decades, Collins Injera has received an almost universal outpouring of love, respect, and appreciation.
The 36-year-old, who was inducted into the Fiji Rugby Hall of Fame two weeks ago, made his retirement from the sport official on Tuesday.
With 279 tries, he ranks second in the World Sevens Series in terms of try scoring and is the all-time leading try scorer for Kenya.
“Everything must come to an end, sometime. I have always said that I will know it’s time because my body will tell me,” he said.
And for the past few months, it has really ‘spoken’ to me so, finally, I have decided to listen to it. I hope I made you all proud.”
“It’s time to sleep away from this great game that has given me so much more than I could ever ask for.
Thank you, Lord, for giving me the strength, opportunities and protection to be able to play the game I love for this long.” he said.
He thanked his wife and children for the support and understanding that they have accorded him since he started playing.
“Thank you very much for all the love and support and understanding.
Those days, weeks and sometimes months that you endured without my presence as I was busy chasing my dream across the globe are finally over.
“It’s now time to spend quality time with you.” he said.
One of those wishing Injera luck in his upcoming chapter was former Kenya 7s national team coach Mike Friday.
It was a pleasure to hunt with you Kolo – Helluva career and you made Kenya proud ….enjoy the next chapter and the 3 wise men you have earned it …Big Love Otoyo — Mike Friday (@MikeFriday09) January 24, 2023
On social media, Kenyans, friends, and coaches paid tribute in almost limitless numbers. Here are a few examples:
There is a case to be made for @cinjera being the finest sportsperson Kenya has ever produced.
The great man announces his retirement today. Go well, champ. May this nation communicate its deepest and most eternal gratitude to him. https://t.co/KoI6QophgJ
— Wallace Kantai (@wgkantai) January 24, 2023
Thank you for the memories Collins Injera, for the highs and lows… All the best in your next chapter. #AsanteInjera ?? pic.twitter.com/vrtt5EUwZe
— Stephen Musyoka (@smusyoka) January 24, 2023
Collins Injera has announced his retirement from Rugby
..”As hard as this is for me, after 17 years of literal blood, sweat and tears, it’s time to step away from this great game that has given me so much more than I could ever ask for..”
Legend. pic.twitter.com/yHOPUZ2CFZ
— Kieni Githinji (@KieniGithinji) January 24, 2023
