I want to stop playing rugby next season, but the team keeps calling it a temporary break. How do I make it clear?
SportsOur captain put me on the tentative squad and wrote, "We'll leave your spot open until you're ready." I'd told him I wasn't planning to play next season.
Nothing dramatic happened. I still like the team, and I enjoyed parts of the season. I just no longer want matches and training to organise most of my week. That feels harder to explain than an injury or a move would.
A teammate says I'll regret stopping while I still have something to offer. My partner says I sound relieved whenever a fixture is cancelled. They're both noticing something true: I can contribute, and I want the time back.
How would you describe this as a decision rather than a problem the team should solve? I'd like to stay friends and attend occasionally, but I don't want every visit to become a conversation about returning. I haven't promised to fill another club role, and I don't want to offer one just to soften the message.