Director of Rugby Mike Ruddock has praised the contribution of Tony Windo to Worcester Warriors as the legendary prop prepares to hit another milestone before hanging up his boots.
Windo will make his 100th Premiership appearance when Warriors travel to the Memorial Stadium to face Bristol on Saturday.
The front row star, who turned 39 this week, has confirmed he will retire from playing at the end of this season after almost a decade of service to Worcester.
Windo will join the Warriors backroom team on a full-time basis after this week signing a two-year deal to be assistant forwards coach.
Ruddock is delighted Windo will continue his long association with the club and has now wished him well as he enters the final few games in gold and blue.
“We are pleased to announce that we have selected Tony for his 100th Premiership league appearance for Warriors in our fixture with Bristol,” said Ruddock.
“This is yet another landmark achievement for a hugely respected Warrior who is playing some of the best rugby of his long and distinguished career.
“Tony will step down from playing at the end of this season. However, he continues to lead by example and is a real role model for the rest of the squad, in particular the younger members of the front row union.
“I’m sure he will reflect upon a positive season and a very successful career overall. Hopefully we can go on to win the European Challenge Cup to help Tony finish with some richly deserved silverware.”
Windo said: “I’m looking forward to the future and my new role in the coaching team at Warriors.
“I have had a great rugby career and really enjoyed my time at Worcester. To be able to try and relay some of the experience I have gained over the years and try and help the younger lads is really exciting for me and the start of a new chapter.”