RONAN O’GARA APPEARED on The Sin Bin on TV3 tonight and was insightful as ever as he reminisced about his playing days. He reserved special praise for Paul O’Connell, describing himself as lucky to have played at the same time as him.
“He’s continuously seeking to improve himself, he’s great craic, he’s approachable, he’s humble, he’s everything you look for in a leader.”
The legendary fly-half scored 1,083 points for Ireland in a 13-year career that saw him win two Heineken Cups with his province and of course, the Grand Slam with Ireland in 2009. He also embarked on three tours with the British and Irish Lions and looks back on his playing days very fondly indeed.
“It gently flows out of you, the emotion and pride of representing your country; what it all entailed, the sacrifices, the craic you had and the teammates you had, the people you met.”
O’Gara was also quick to admit how much he would love to be playing with the Irish squad at the Rugby World Cup and is full of praise for Joe Schmidt’s team.
“I’m mad jealous that I’m not in Camp Ireland tonight, it’s a great team they have. They have a short-term focus, a great coach, and a great captain who I spent my whole career with.” He also added that he misses waking up on match-day and being sick with worry, to the point of not being able to stomach breakfast. “There’s an evil thrill in that — in testing yourself every week.”
We all remember some of O’Gara’s top moments in an Irish jersey, and he spoke about the nerves fly-halves must deal with.
“It’s a massive responsibility, if you’re the kicker for Ireland and you take your job seriously. I felt that pressure, I made no qualms about that.”
“I went on tour with Jonny Wilkinson in 2001 and I saw what hard work and professionalism was and what kicking the ball over the bar meant for your team.”
