Although we’re rowers, three members of the calendar cast have chosen rugby players as their sporting heroes and with the RBS Six Nations tournament starting this weekend, it seemed the perfect opportunity to share Harry’s, Cian’s and Cameron’s heroes with you.
Chris Robshaw – England Rugby captain
My Sporting Hero by Harry
Who is he/she?
My hero is Chris Robshaw, former captain of the England team.
What do you admire about this person?
A lot of things, but overall he’s a true example of hard graft and attitude getting you success in life. In terms of his attitude there’s a lot to learn from. His bounce back after being cut entirely from the 2011 world cup squad to being England rugby Captain is an amazing feat within only a few months. Despite a huge number of doubters and nay sayers he has remained one of the most consistent England players for the past three years. In terms of hard work he doesn’t stand out for exceptional strength or speed but the stats don’t lie about his work rate and bravery, he puts his body on line topping the tackle count nearly every single match. He gives his all for the good of the team. Through his attitude and hard work as well as down to earth nature he’s won the respect and loyalty of his squad. These qualities are what I think everyone should aspire to perform and Robshaw is evidence of the benefits as he had the incredible honour of leading England into a home world cup four years on from being told he wasn’t good enough to play for his country.
How does this person benefit sport – in your opinion?
As I said, his attitude is inspirational in terms of where it has got him in his career. It has also in my opinion had a profound effect on England rugby culture. When Stuart Lancaster took over in 2011, the England rugby team was in a terrible state with an awful reputation on and off the field. Lancaster made Robshaw captain when he took over as he knew he would set the best example in terms of respect for the sport and a player’s part as a role model for others. The effect of his inclusion and attitude can be seen clearly in the culture of England rugby now and the redemption of a number of players who have followed his example. The culture that Robshaw demonstrates and endorses is one that is translatable across all sport, especially team sport in terms of selflessness and leadership qualities.
Brian O’Driscoll – Irish Rugby legend
My Sporting Hero by Cian
Who is he/she?
The one and only Brian O’Driscoll. The greatest player to ever pick up a rugby ball (save perhaps me when I played at school)
What do you admire about this person?
He adapted so much over his career to remain at the very peak of his profession; when he started out he was a very young and quick player, but as the years wore on and he lost a few yards he became a brilliant defender and tactician. Towards the end of his career he was remarkably unimpressive athletically and yet he was still one of the best players on any field – an inspiration to people up and down the country as he never let his physical shortcomings hold him back.
How does this person benefit sport – in your opinion?
I used to think it was due to the level of professionalism he brought to Irish rugby, something it had always been lacking but desperately needed. Then I read his autobiography and it turns out that he went out after a match in France once and ended up throwing up on the Champs Elysées. Either way he’s clearly a top bloke.
In what ways do you think this person is a good role model for younger people, or for all ages?
A role model both on and off the pitch; once in a post match interview he was asked if Martin Johnson would be able to convert his playing experience into becoming a good manager. Brian’s response? “Knowledge is knowing a tomato is a fruit, wisdom is knowing not to put it into a fruit salad”. To this day I’m still trying to figure out the exact meaning behind this message, but it clearly puts him in a very elite category of wordsmith – Oscar Wilde eat your heart out. In BOD we trust!
Johnny Wilkinson – the England hero who inspired a new generation.
My Sporting Hero by Cameron
Who is he/she?
Jonny Wilkinson, retired England rugby player.
What do you admire about this person?
As I was growing up, Wilkinson was the talisman of English rugby. The 2003 World Cup was the first major sporting tournament I remember watching and I will never forget the drama of the final. His composure to score the winning drop goal in extra time was unbelievable. It was particularly impressive that whilst playing in France, later in his career, he learned French and I clearly remember seeing him, as captain, giving a team talk in French to the squad. This was inspiring to see how Wilkinson never took anything for granted and how much respect he commanded from fellow players.
How does this person benefit sport – in your opinion?
Wilkinson brought a real professionalism towards rugby and was the best in the world as a result of his hard work and dedication. He showed the rugby world what was possible and challenged others to match him. Unfortunately, he had a lot of injuries after the 2003 triumph but kept coming back and performing.
In what ways do you think this person is a good role model for younger people, or for all ages?
Wilkinson has always maintained a good public profile. Despite his fame he has stayed grounded and is a great example of how hard work and practice pays off. I was an aspiring rugby player and Jonny made me want to play and improve, especially as I played in his position. I have read an autobiography of his and this made me realise that he was actually just a normal guy like anyone else, who wanted to stay grounded, train hard and avoid too much limelight.