My Life in Sport: Johne Murphy
A Q&A with Former Leicester and Munster Rugby Union Player Johne Murphy
We sent caught up with Irish former back, Johne Murphy to learn a bit more about his professional life in Rugby, and what he is up to now.
1. What are your earliest memories of sports or sporting events?
Going to the Curragh with family on Derby Day.
2. Did you have a sporting role model or idol growing up?
Joost Van Der Westhuizen the South African Number 9.
3. Who was the biggest influence on you when you were growing up?
My father John. I used to go racing with him all the time and he was interested in all sports and he passed that love of sport to me.
4. When did you think or realise that you might be able to make a living from sport?
After leaving school and I got selected for the Leinster under 21’s. I really enjoyed that summer training and felt it could be something I could do if I work hard enough and got an opportunity
5. Does any one moment from the beginning of your pro career stand out?
Making my Debut for Leicester Tigers against Harlequins in the Stoop. My family came over and it’s a memory I will cherish forever
6. Can you name one player, coach or colleague that was instrumental in the success you had as an athlete?
Dusty Hare and Geordan Murphy.
Geordan was the person the opened the door for me with Leicester Tigers and Dusty was the scout that watched a few of my games and was the man who recommended me for a contract with Leicester.
Simon Cohen and Pat Howard also as they backed me and gave me my first contract.
7. What was the proudest moment of your sporting career?
Beating South Africa and Australia with my club sides, Leicester and Munster respectively. Both were very different evenings but the atmospheres of both of those stick out in my mind. Two great nights.
8. Likewise, is there a regret that stays with you from your time in sport?
One or two along the way!
9. Did you know in your heart of hearts when to call it a day?
Yes, I did. After 10 years I felt it was the right decision to move on to the next chapter.
10. What one lesson can you take from your career that everyone should know?
Work hard and back yourself to get the job done.
Check out all of our Horse Racing content
11. What are you working on now?
Working on Stride.
It’s a racing platform that allows people to buy shares in elite-level thoroughbred racehorses. It digitises the experience and brings you all the way from the sales ring, to the winner’s enclosure! Come join the journey!
