Damien Blanch has requested an early release from his two-year contract with Catalan Dragons to return home to Australia. The club have agreed to the request with immediate effect.
“The main reason is family. I left Australia in 2005, it’s a long time far from home. After a such long time of travelling, I feel it’s the right time to get back to Australia,” said Blanch.
“I’m looking for other options in Australia to play and also to prepare for life after rugby.
“I felt lucky to be able to play professional sport for ten years. I felt really privileged to be able to do that.”
“The last three years at the Catalans have been easily the best of my career. All the French people have made my family very welcome and I want to thank everybody here. I also want to thank my wife for supporting me during the last ten years.”
The Irish international, who joined the club from Wakefield Wildcats in 2011, scored 42 tries in 70 Super League appearances with the Dragons.
“His contribution over the last three seasons has allowed us to improve on the field. After ten years far from home, I understand his decision to focus on his family,” said head coach Laurent Frayssinous.
“The club respects the choice of Damien to be released from his contract. We wish him all the best in the future and will keep good memories from his time at the club,” club CEO Christophe Jouffret added.
