After over 270 appearances in Cherry & White, club stalwart, Billy Twelvetrees, will embark on a new challenge at the conclusion of the 2022-23 season, bringing an end to his 11-year tenure at Kingsholm.
Twelvetrees, 34, arrived at Gloucester Rugby from Leicester Tigers in 2012 and has been a key figure in the squad ever since.
Soon after joining the club, Twelvetrees earned a call-up to the England squad for the 2013 Six Nations, making his debut against Scotland at Twickenham. After continuing his fine form in Cherry & White, the centre toured with England once more with a summer visit to Argentina in 2013, making one appearance before being drafted into Warren Gatland’s British & Irish Lions squad in Australia.
Quickly becoming a fan favourite at Kingsholm, Twelvetrees was named Gloucester Rugby’s Club Captain ahead of the 2014-15 season, leading the side to a second European Challenge Cup title at the end of that year.
Last season, Billy marked an incredible 10-years of service to the club during his testimonial year, a season in which he also notched up his 250th appearance in Cherry & White.
This season, Twelvetrees has made 16 appearances, including memorable performances against Bordeaux and La Rochelle in the Heineken Champions Cup.
As Head Coach George Skivington acknowledged, Twelvetrees will depart Kingsholm as a true legend.
“Billy is such a quality individual as a bloke and as a rugby player, I’ve known him a long time and I’ve got all the time in the world for him.
“There’s no doubt that he will be considered a club legend for his contribution to this club and this city over the last decade.
“We’re hoping that Saturday will be a good send-off for him. The fans have always been appreciative of Billy’s commitment, and I know that Billy has a huge amount of respect for our supporters too. We’ve obviously got a couple of games to go yet, but when the time comes, Billy leaves with our blessing and support for his next journey.”
Billy says that Gloucester Rugby will always have a special place in his heart.
“I’m extremely thankful that I’ve had the opportunity to play for such a prestigious club for the last 11 years and I’ve loved every minute of it.
“What makes this club special is the people and the fans. From Shaun the kitman, to Chef, to Martin and Judith St. Quinton who have given me the opportunity to play here for so many years, this club is all about the people.
“I’ve made some friends for life and that’s why I love rugby so much and I can’t wait for my next chapter in rugby.”
To watch Billy’s full extended interview, please see below.
Supporters will get the chance to say one last Kingsholm goodbye to Billy in Gloucester Rugby’s final home game of the 2022/23 season, against Sale Sharks on Saturday.
