Rugby Nation

Gareth Rees: Canada’s Pioneering Player

Gareth Lloyd Rees was born on 30 June 1967 in Duncan, British Columbia, and stands as one of Canadian rugby’s true icons and the embodiment of a defiant, determined fly-half. Rees inherited his passion for sport from his Welsh father, a former professional footballer himself. Excelling at club rugby throughout his academic journey, he balanced […]

John Eales: Australia’s Most Successful Skipper

John Anthony Eales was born on 27 June 1970 in Brisbane, Australia, and is widely regarded as one of rugby’s greatest players and one of Australia’s most successful captains ever. Standing at two metres tall, Eales was a natural fit for lock and first played for local Brothers Rugby Club in 1989. Two years later, […]

Patty Jervey: Rugby’s First Trailblazing Woman

Patricia “Patty” Jervey was born on 29 March 1964, and the American holds a special place in rugby’s history due to her relentless drive and longevity. A friend inspired the then-18-year-old burgeoning talent to try the sport, and so began her journey at the University of South Carolina in 1982. After graduating, Jervey helped launch […]

Agustin Pichot: The Lucky Charm of Argentina

Agustin Pichot, born in Buenos Aires on 22 August 1974, is widely regarded as one of Argentina’s most influential rugby players and a key figure in the sporting history of the South American nation. Known for his leadership and tenacity, Pichot also represented his country in Sevens and age-grade rugby before debuting at 22 years […]

George Gregan: The Wallabies’ Chosen One

George Gregan is widely hailed as one of Australia’s greats due to his leadership qualities and determination, which make him stand out as a true rugby legend. Gregan was born in Lusaka, Zambia, on 19 April 1973 and raised in Canberra, Australia. His middle name, Musarurwa – which means “the chosen one” in Shona – […]

Joost van der Westhuizen: Scrum-Half, All Fighter

Joost van der Westhuizen was born in Pretoria, South Africa, on 20 February 1971, and remains one of South Africa’s most celebrated rugby players. Van der Westhuizen got his first taste of rugby playing for the Junior Springboks in 1992; the following year, he made his international debut during the Springbok tour of Argentina. However, […]