OM DENNE EPISODE
CJ Stander went from farm life in South Africa to the Bulls, Munster, Ireland and one of the toughest retirement decisions in rugby.
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In this conversation with Coach G, he opens up on work ethic, leadership, identity, family, and what it takes to build a second life after professional sport.
The farm mindset that shaped him
How he realised pro rugby was possible
Why he left South Africa for Munster
The decision to represent Ireland
How he earned trust and became a leader
Why he retired at 31
What life after rugby really looks like
Chapters:
00:00 Farm mindset, setbacks and showing up
01:33 Welcome to the episode
07:09 Growing up on the farm in George
12:38 When CJ realised pro rugby was possible
24:29 Why he left the Bulls for Munster
31:18 How Ireland became a real option
37:54 His Ireland debut vs Wales
40:40 Leadership, trust and earning respect
48:30 Why he retired at 31
55:05 Life after rugby: business, property and farming
01:06:45 Feeling out of depth after rugby
01:12:08 Final lessons and wrap-up
Listen, follow and share this episode with someone navigating rugby, leadership or life after sport.
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