image source, Gallo pictures
Clare Jones was vice-captain of the Welsh Feathers team
Wales center Clare Jones has retired from netball after an international career that brought her 32 caps.
Jones, 32, played her final match for Welsh Feathers at the 2023 Netball World Cup in South Africa.
„It is with great pride and gratitude that I announce my retirement from international netball,” Jones said.
„Nothing can replace the feeling of playing a game I've loved since I was eight, but I'm so grateful to be able to reflect on it and celebrate it.
„The journey I've been on has been amazing and now I feel ready and excited for my next chapter. It's time to give back.”
In addition to last year's World Cup, Jones represented Wales at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, where the Welsh Feathers beat Scottish Thistles 57-42 to finish ninth.
That final appearance for Wales came seven years later against South Africa – a debut that was the most poignant of the match's dates.
„Maybe it's a touch of fate, but I'll always be grateful to get my first cap on Father's Day 2016,” Jones said in announcing his retirement.
„It's a moment for my late dad and I to celebrate, but it's also a subtle reminder that there's strength in adversity. I dedicate my life to him.
„He's gotten me through the highs, the hurdles, and all the life lessons in between. I'm so proud to wear 'Jones' on my back, and I hope I've made you proud.”
At the time of the decision to withdraw from the Netball Super League, the Celtic Dragons said they expected Jones to continue playing international netball, although she would now focus on her career as a clinical psychologist.
„I have so many wonderful memories on and off the court. Netball has allowed me to make friends, experience some great coaches, come up against some tough competition and of course, play in front of our army of Welsh Feathers fans,” she said. said.
„They've all inspired me, laughed with me, cried with me, and I've learned something from each of them.”
Sarah Moore, Head of Wales Netball Team Performance, said: „Claire's retirement from international duties is obviously disappointing as he has been a great employee for Wales Netball and Feathers. I have had the pleasure of working with Clare as coach from 2018 until 2023 and at this time his drive, commitment and dedication to his sport and the Feathers team. I saw the commitment first hand.
„Wales Netball would like to thank Clare for her commitment to the Welsh featherweights. We wish her all the best in her career as a psychiatrist.”