Ex-Scotland wing McGuigan to retire to pursue coaching

Former Scotland international and current Sale Sharks wing Byron McGuigan has announced that he will be retiring from playing professional rugby at the end of the current Premiership season.

McGuigan, who was born in Namibia to a Scottish mother and South African father, took a unique path through the rugby ranks before finding his way to Sale Sharks in 2016. The fleet-footed winger quickly became a fan favourite and went on to make over 100 appearances for the club.

During his time at Sale, McGuigan also pursued his passion for coaching, holding various roles with grassroots rugby clubs in the North of England, including Sandbach, Bowden, and Rossendale.

Byron’s talent was first spotted by the Scottish Rugby Union, who gave him an opportunity to join their sevens team in 2011 due to his mother’s Scottish heritage. He went on to make six appearances on the sevens circuit that season before being offered a contract by Glasgow Warriors. After two years with Glasgow and a stint playing in New Zealand, Byron eventually found his way to Sale Sharks via Exeter Chiefs.

“It feels bittersweet really,” said the winger. “I have had a great career, but I’m really excited for what lies ahead. My passion is coaching now and I’m very lucky to have an opportunity to stay at the top level of the game.

“Throughout my career, I have always been surrounded by great people, especially at Sale and I have so many good memories both on and off the pitch. I’ve made some incredible friends that will be there for life, and the journey isn’t even over yet!

“There are some great characters in the game, we’ve got such a good group of boys at the Sharks, everybody brings something different and that’s what I love so much about rugby. I must credit the owners and the coaches who have provided a great platform for us to grow and excel as a team but most of all I would like to thank the fans. It’s always been special to play at the AJ Bell, I have so many fond memories to take away from my career and it’s down to the atmosphere the Sharks Family create on a matchday.”

Now, as he prepares to retire from professional rugby, McGuigan will be taking on a position within the Sharks back-room staff.