Rugby in Australia

Words Daniel Harris

When I left school after receiving my A-levels results, I initially had mixed emotions about missing out on a university place by the narrowest of margins. However, thanks to Sport Lived, I haven’t looked back since!

Playing rugby overseas has always been a dream of mine and the rugby in Melbourne has exceeded all my expectations. So far, we’ve played 3 pre-season games, 8 league games and have the semi-finals coming up this weekend. All the games have been extremely competitive with 2 of the matches coming down to 1 point. Rugby in Australia balances physicality and aggression with speed and flare and is an eye-opening experience for any player looking to improve their game.

Off the pitch, the club has been great socially. Most weekends the club organises large post game events (my favourite being the Miss Universe competition) and if nothing is on then the colts will get together for a few drinks normally sponsored by Coach Yakka.

Sport Lived have also organised lots of social events for the group. We’ve been to the Australian Grand Prix, Phillip Island and the AFL Dreamtime match between Essendon and Richmond at the MCG. We’ve also enjoyed fun activities such as surfing, escape rooms and go-karting. Living just off Chapel Street has made it really easy to get to all of these events on public transport as we’re only one tram ride from the city and also a short tram ride from our rugby club.

When I wasn’t working or playing rugby, I travelled up the east coast to Sydney, Byron Bay and the Gold Coast which was a great experience and something I’d highly recommend.

Thanks to all the support from Sport Lived, I’ve had the time of my life!

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