Wallaroos captain and Sevens legend Shannon Parry has announced her retirement.
The Olympic gold medalist confirmed this Saturday's Test against Fijiana at Allianz Stadium will be the last of her decorated 13-year career across Rugby Sevens and the 15-a-side game.
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The 33-year-old played in four Rugby World Cups, first appearing for the Wallaroos in 2010.
She then turned her focus towards the seven-a-side game, co-captaining the Sevens side alongside Sharni Williams to the inaugural Olympic Rugby Sevensgold medal in 2016.
Parry played in 34 events on the World Series, winning two series titles to go with a Commonwealth Games silver medal.
The flanker returned to the 15-a-side format in 2022, captaining the Wallaroos at the delayed Rugby World Cup 2021.
“Representing Australian Rugby in both formats of the game has been an incredible journey,” Parry said in a statement.
“The opportunities I’ve had and the friendships I’ve made along the way have shaped my life in ways I never expected.
“Rugby has given me so much – I will forever cherish the memories and experiences I’ve collected over the course of my career.”
Parry will remain in Rugby as Rugby Australia’s National Emerging Sevens Coach.
This will see Parry lead a team to the 2023 Commonwealth Youth Games in Trinidad and Tobago in August this year.
Coaches from both formats led the tributes for the legendary Parry after her incredible impact.
“Shannon has been an exceptional leader for the Wallaroos, guiding the team with passion and heart,” Wallaroos coach Jay Tregonning said.
“Her commitment to the sport has been unwavering – she has led by example at every turn.
"I know I speak for myself, the players and the coaching staff when I say that Shannon will be sorely missed. There will not be a dry eye in the sheds after our Test match. ”
“Shannon is a true testament to the spirit of Australian Rugby – her ability to transition seamlessly between the XVs and Sevens programs is a symbol of her commitment to the game,” Women’s Sevens coach Tim Walsh, who won the Rio gold alongside Parry, said.
“She has been an integral part of the history and success of the Rugby Sevens program and her leadership qualities still serve as inspiration to emerging players today.”
