Brian Odriscoll

Brian O'Driscoll is an Irish former professional rugby player, born on January 21, 1979, in Dublin, Ireland. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest rugby players in history. O'Driscoll began his professional career with Leinster in 1999, where he won multiple titles, including three Heineken Cups.

O'Driscoll is known for his incredible speed, strength, try-scoring ability, and vision. He has won numerous individual awards, and holds multiple records, such as the most tries in the Six Nations history.

Off the field, O'Driscoll is also recognized for his philanthropy and influence, making significant charitable contributions and inspiring millions worldwide.

Leinster Rugby

• Youth and Early Career: O'Driscoll was born and raised in Dublin and joined Leinster's youth academy. He made his first-team debut for Leinster in 1999.

Leinster Rugby

• Early Success: O'Driscoll developed into one of the world's best centres, winning three Heineken Cups, a Challenge Cup, and four Celtic Leagues with Leinster.

British and Irish Lions

• O'Driscoll was selected for the British and Irish Lions for their tours in 2001, 2005, 2009, and 2013. Despite suffering a serious injury in 2005, his performances on the other tours were highly regarded.

Ireland National Team

• Debut: Made his debut for Ireland in 1999.

Achievements:

• Six Nations Championship: Winner in 2009.
• O'Driscoll is Ireland's second-highest try scorer and has the fourth-most appearances for the national team.

• Position: Primarily a centre.
• Skills: Known for his incredible speed, strength, vision, and try-scoring ability. O'Driscoll is celebrated for his tactical intelligence, leadership, and defensive prowess.

• Family: O'Driscoll is married to actress Amy Huberman and they have three children.
• Philanthropy: O'Driscoll is involved in various charitable activities and has donated significant sums to children's hospitals, cancer research, and disaster relief efforts.

• Brian O'Driscoll is celebrated not only for his extraordinary talent and numerous records but also for his work ethic, determination, and longevity in professional rugby. His impact on the sport and his status as an icon extend beyond the pitch, inspiring millions of fans around the world.

Most Tries in Six Nations:

• Over 26 tries

Most Tries for Leinster:

• Over 60 tries

Most Appearances for Ireland:

• Over 133 appearances

IRB World Rugby Player of the Year:

• 2001

Books

• O'Driscoll, B. (2014) The Test: My Autobiography. London: Penguin.
• English, T. (2016) No Borders: Playing Rugby for Ireland. London: Arena Sport.

Websites

• Irish Rugby: Information about Brian O'Driscoll's international career and achievements. Available at: https://www.irishrugby.ie
• Leinster Rugby: Details about O'Driscoll's career at Leinster. Available at: https://www.leinsterrugby.ie
• British and Irish Lions: Updates on O'Driscoll's performance and records with the Lions. Available at: https://www.lionsrugby.com

Articles

• RTE Sport: Brian O'Driscoll: Career in numbers. Available at: https://www.rte.ie/sport/rugby/
• The Guardian: Brian O'Driscoll’s career highlights and records. Available at: https://www.theguardian.com/sport/brian-odriscoll

Interviews and Documentaries

• O'Driscoll's Test (2014): This documentary provides a detailed look at O'Driscoll's life and career, featuring interviews with his family, friends, and colleagues.
• RTE Interviews: Various interviews and features on Brian O'Driscoll, covering different aspects of his career. Available at: https://www.rte.ie/sport/