Halfback, Half Forward

by George Gregan

George Gregan has made more appearances for the Australian rugby union team than any other player in the sport's history. He captained the team to numerous victories and is respected throughout the rugby world not only as a great halfback, but for his tenacity, tactical skill, leadership ability and sportsmanship. It's also fair to say he's almost as well-known for his "talk-back" to referees and the strength and force of his character. In modern sport, where off-field blandness is too often the rule, George is an enigma - unusual, opinionated, polarising - yet one of the outstanding contributors to the rugby world for more than a decade.He made his first appearance for the Wallabies in 1994 and ended his astonishing international career after the 2007 World Cup. His years at rugby's highest level have seen extraordinary changes in the game as it moved from amateur to professional status and emerged as a truly global sport. George played in three World Cups, five Super 12 grand finals, and made an indelible mark on the game. As an Australian rugby player, he is unique.Now, in George's autobiography, he writes with honesty and insight about both his life and the game he loves. Full of highs and lows, great characters and - always - George's forthright opinion, this is a book not just for rugby fans but for anyone who enjoys an inspiring tale.

Kindle Edition

First published November 1, 2008

Reviews

[Rex Gretton · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting read. Insight in to the famous George, and a look in to behind the scenes in world rugby.
One sided view? Potentially, but offset by some memories penned by others.
Will pass on to the Brother in Law.

[Adonis · Rating 3 out of 5]

I quite liked George Gregan’s insight into some of the key games of his career and the contrast between being a rugby player in the late ’90s compared to today. In saying that, I’m still yet to read a sports autobiography that I’ve really loved—though that probably says more about me mostly reading athlete memoirs and not being a huge fan of the genre.

I did enjoy the anecdotes scattered throughout the book, especially the stories involving his teammates. I think I would’ve appreciated it even more if I’d known more of the players or watched them play at the time.
The book did drag a bit in places, particularly when it went into the negotiations with the Australian Rugby Union—which, honestly, I found pretty dull.