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One of the original Seawolves is stepping away from the game. Eric Duechle has announced a one year sabbatical from rugby that sees him departing the team after four Major League Rugby campaigns and two MLR Shield titles. He does so at the age of 35.
A succinct post on social media reads as follows:
“Sabbatical Announcement: Decided to take a year off from playing rugby. Focus on healing my mind/body and building our nonprofit. It’s been amazing living in Seattle and an honor to play with Seawolves Rugby the past four years.”
Duechle served for a decade in the US Air Force before making the switch to professional rugby. The 6’4″ (1.93m) flanker quickly became a fan favorite for both his approachable off-field demeaner and dynamic ability on the pitch. Only Tim Metcher ranks above Duechle’s 40 MLR appearances for Seattle.
With Metcher, Kellen Gordon, Shalom Suniula, and George Barton all departing the team there are currently only two members of the 2018 side signed for the 2022 season and beyond. Both are loose forwards – flanker Nakai Penny and club captain Riekert Hattingh.
