About this episode
In this deeply personal episode with Hosts Gurthro Steenkamp and Ben Pegna , Welsh rugby great Dafydd James joins Lessons from the Game to share the untold story of what happens when the stadium lights go off.He talks about his career with Wales and the Lions, the shock of retirement, battling mental health, the loneliness of life post-rugby, and what truly helped him survive. Whether you’re a player, coach, or fan, this episode is a must-listen.📕 Offloading , Dafydd’s new book, is out soon.💬 Share this episode with someone who needs to hear it. 00:00 Introduction to a Welsh Legend 03:02 Life After Rugby: The Transition 06:14 Lessons from the Game: Resilience and Teamwork 09:08 The Shift from Amateur to Professional Rugby 12:10 Reflections on a Career: The Loneliness After the Game 15:07 Mental Health and the Struggles of Retired Athletes 17:53 Finding Purpose: Coping Mechanisms and Support 20:55 The Lions Tour: Overcoming Doubts and Criticism 37:27 From South Africa to the British Lions 39:18 The Journey to Professional Rugby 43:10 Mindset of a Professional Player 49:53 The Importance of Self-Reflection 56:39 Career Highlights and Lessons Learned 01:12:04 Living in the Moment and Enjoying Life 📩 Join Coach G’s Free Community - https://www.skool.com/coach-g-1708/about?ref=2aa34cec096e4503a6e179cc75caaaec 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