The Battle Beyond Rugby: Joe van Niekerk: – Identity, Purpose & Healing

Summary In this episode of the Lessons from the Game podcast, Gurthro Steenkamp and Ben Begna engage in an inspiring conversation with former Springbok player Joe Van Niekerk. They explore Joe's journey from professional rugby to self-discovery, the importance of mentorship, and the pressures athletes face. Joe shares his experiences with trauma, the impact of fatherhood, and how he found purpose beyond trophies. The discussion also delves into mental health, self-care practices, and the healing power of breathwork. Joe emphasizes the significance of showing up for oneself and the lessons learned from rugby that apply to life beyond the field. Takeaways Joe Furnicker emphasizes the importance of mentorship in rugby. He discusses the pressure athletes face and how to navigate it. Joe shares his experiences with trauma and its impact on performance. He highlights the need for self-care practices in sports. The conversation touches on the healing power of breathwork. Joe reflects on finding purpose beyond trophies and achievements. He discusses the significance of creating a supportive team environment. Joe emphasizes the importance of showing up for oneself in life. He shares insights on dealing with regret and past experiences. The episode concludes with Joe's lessons learned from rugby and life. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Joe Van Niekerk's Journey 03:32 The Transformative Power of Fatherhood 06:56 Lessons from Rugby: The Importance of Mentorship 09:21 Navigating Pressure and Expectations in Professional Rugby 12:15 Dealing with Regret and Identity Beyond Rugby 14:22 Dealing With Pressure 18:18 Building Self-Worth Beyond Achievements 20:59 Career Reflections 22:30 World Cup 2007 34:05 The Turning Point in Joe's Career 37:43 The Journey to Toulon and Leadership 40:32 The Impact of Team Environment 48:21 Mental Health and Pressure in Rugby 51:44 Healing and Self-Care Practices 01:00:54 Lessons from Rugby and Life Follow Joe on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/junglejoe333 🔔 Don’t forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE & TURN ON NOTIFICATIONS for more rugby insights from top players & coaches! 📲 Follow us for more rugby content: 📩 Join Coach G’s Free Community - https://thescrumdominatormindset.mykajabi.com/offers/JNLUYzpi Follow us on ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ - https://www.instagram.com/lessonsfromthegamepodcast Follow Coach G on⁠⁠ Instagram⁠⁠ - https://www.instagram.com/ggsteenkamp Follow Ben on ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ - https://www.instagram.com/benpegna