Professional Rugby Players Unique Hobbies Off The Field
Today at 06:23 AM
Rugby players are known for their physical prowess and dedication to their sport, but when they're off the field, many pursue unique and surprising hobbies. From adrenaline-filled activities to more tranquil pastimes, the hobbies of professional rugby players often reflect their desire for balance, relaxation, and personal growth.
Here are a few rugby players and the hobbies they've developed outside of the game.
Austin Healey: A Passion for Poker
Austin Healey, a former English rugby star known for his versatility as a utility back, is best remembered for his time with Leicester Tigers and his 2 caps with the British & Irish Lions. Off the field, Healey has openly shared his love for gambling, particularly online poker. It's not just Healey that enjoys online poker. A growing number of bettors are logging on to play games like poker, blackjack, and roulette at online casinos. In the UK gamers can wager on domestic GamStop sites or choose international non-GamStop platforms. The best non GamStop casinos in the UK are quickly becoming the most popular option amongst bettors as they offer flexible options, huge game libraries, and lucrative bonuses. Some of these sites offer a plethora of games, poker variants, and even tournaments. Healey has mentioned his enjoyment of the strategy and skill required in poker, which aligns with the focus and discipline needed on the rugby field.
Healey's interest in poker highlights a more relaxed approach to gambling, where players can engage in a fun, competitive atmosphere without the intense pressures of professional sports.
Dan Carter: Fishing for Relaxation
Dan Carter, the legendary former All Black and one of the most decorated players in rugby history, has found solace in the peaceful hobby of fishing. Known for his incredible kicking ability and leadership on the rugby field, Carter is equally passionate about fishing, which provides him with an escape from the high-stress world of professional rugby. Whether he's casting a line in a serene river or enjoying a quiet day on a boat, fishing allows Carter to disconnect from the demands of his career and enjoy the natural beauty around him.
Fishing is a popular hobby among rugby players, as it offers a tranquil break from the intensity of the sport. For Carter, it's more than just a hobby—it's an opportunity for personal reflection and a chance to spend quality time with friends. The stillness of fishing helps Carter unwind, providing a welcome contrast to the high-energy, physically demanding world of rugby.
Matt Hampson: Music as a Creative Outlet
Matt Hampson, a former England rugby player who tragically sustained a life-changing spinal injury during a training session, has found music to be a therapeutic and creative outlet. Following his accident, Hampson turned to music as a way to express himself and raise awareness for the Matt Hampson Foundation, which supports people with spinal injuries. Playing the guitar and writing songs has allowed him to channel his emotions into something positive, and his music has played a key role in his recovery.
Through his music, Hampson has not only found a way to cope with his life-changing injury but has also used it as a platform to inspire others facing similar challenges. His foundation benefits from his creative endeavors, and his story demonstrates how hobbies like music can be transformative, providing both healing and an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others.
Johnny Wilkinson: Extreme Sports and Adrenaline
Johnny Wilkinson, the hero of England's 2003 Rugby World Cup victory, has always sought adrenaline in his personal life, much like he did on the rugby field. After retiring from rugby, Wilkinson pursued extreme sports, including activities like skydiving and mountain biking. His love for pushing the limits of his physical and mental endurance in sports translates into a thirst for adventure in his personal life.
Extreme sports are not only a way for Wilkinson to continue challenging himself but also provide an exciting contrast to the rigors of professional rugby. For players like Wilkinson, these hobbies are an opportunity to stay active and engaged, channeling their competitive energy into new and thrilling pursuits. Whether racing down a mountain on a bike or taking the leap out of an airplane, extreme sports offer a perfect way for Wilkinson to enjoy life after rugby.
Conclusion
Professional rugby players often develop diverse and unique hobbies outside of their careers. Whether it's gambling, fishing, music, or extreme sports, these pastimes allow them to relax, grow, and explore new passions. Austin Healey’s stories highlight how gambling can be a fun and strategic hobby when enjoyed responsibly. Meanwhile, players like Dan Carter, Matt Hampson, and Johnny Wilkinson show how activities like fishing, music, and extreme sports provide a creative, therapeutic, or adrenaline-fueled escape from the high-pressure world of professional rugby.
The post Professional Rugby Players Unique Hobbies Off The Field appeared first on Ruck.