Rugby: Goodhue is calling it quits

Cam Goodhue pictured in an ITM Cup clash with Otago in 2011. It was his first starting role, and he had a blinder. Photo / Michael Cunningham

A recurring back injury has ended Cam Goodhue's competitive rugby career.

However, the Blues and Taniwha backrower will continue mentoring up-and-coming players in his new role as a development officer.

The 28-year-old has called it quits eight months after returning from London Welsh, where he had been playing since July 2014.

Cam Goodhue

He took up the role of Far North rugby development officer about four months ago and said he would continue in that position while exploring other options outside of rugby.

"My injured back was as a result of a build-up of injuries. I wasn't involved in a massive collision or anything like that and, after I had my operation back in the UK, it was meant to be a three to four months' recovery process," said the older of four rugby-playing siblings.

His contract at London Welsh was expected to finish in June this year and Goodhue had plans to hook up with another overseas club if his back had come right. The United Kawakawa rep also played for Worcester in 2013.

"It's very disappointing not being able to play at ITM Cup level, but I don't want to let myself and the team down if I can't give it my 100 per cent. You know the intensity required to play at that level and it won't be good for my health if I can't fully commit myself," he said.

Goodhue said he intended to play for as long as he could and it would have been nice to stretch his rugby career until he turned 33 or 34.

"At the end of the day, injuries take their toll on your body. It's disappointing but it's not the end of the world. It would be nice to get into some type of business," said the economics graduate from Otago University.

Goodhue played 20 games for the Taniwha and one for the Blues, when he took the field as a substitute against the Crusaders in Christchurch in 2012. He also played for Kamo, before plying his trade in the United Kingdom.

His twin brothers Josh and Jack were part of the New Zealand squad who won the U20 World Cup in Italy this year.

Another brother, Axel, plays for the Northern Development team.

Northland Rugby Union commercial and marketing manager Alistair McGinn said Goodhue was an intelligent man who thought of giving others an opportunity to play after realising he could not give 100 per cent to the Taniwha in the ITM Cup competition.

"We're very supportive of him and he may still play club rugby. It's just the extra level in physicality and speed that's required at this level that he doesn't feel he can match."

Mr McGinn said Goodhue could now focus on his new role as a development officer in the Far North.