Heart on My Sleeve: My story of struggle and strength

by Andrew Porter

Andrew Porter lost his mother to breast cancer at the age of 12, spent much of his teens suffering with his mental health and overcame his issues by focusing on rugby. Here, this gentle giant wears his heart on his sleeve and opens up about his challenges and successes on and off the pitch.

Displaying courage and resilience, Andrew shares the stories of his toughest tests in life and in rugby, covering his emotional journey from the gym to winning 75 caps and three Six Nations wins with Ireland and becoming one of the highest profile and most respected players in the world along the way.

304 pages, Hardcover

Published October 7, 2025

About the author

Andrew Porter (born 26 August 1928), is a British music critic, scholar, organist, and opera director.


Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.

This is the profile for the music critic.

Reviews

[Irtiza Mirza · Rating 4 out of 5]

First book that i have read and completed in 2026.

Enjoyed reading this thoroughly as it dives deep into the mental health struggles of men, especially in the form of grief because of the loss of a loved one. The book details about physical, mental and emotional struggles through the lens of Irish rugby union player - Andrew Porter.

Mr Porter lost his mum at an early age and life wasn’t easy for him growing up. He had to navigate his way through childhood, teenagehood and adulthood all while staying laser focused on Rugby because he truly cherished the sport. 🏉

The book is a rollercoaster ride of emotions- it will make you teary eyed, make you laugh out loud and make you laser focused into Training (in the gym) - // something that i always look forward to.

#happyreading
#firstbookof2026

[Keith Brennan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent book, so we'll written and very honest and frank about his life experiences and battles with mental health. The only reason I'm giving it 4 and not 5 is the amount of minor errors thrown in (i.e says Jack Crowley kicked two drop goals Vs SA in one chapter, then says Frawley kicked them in the next. La Rochelle in the 2025 Heineken Cup semi??)

[Shirley Power · Rating 4 out of 5]

As sports autobiographies go this is very good. Andrew Porter is so honest and vulnerable about his struggles with mental health and the loss of his adored mum. This book will definitely help any young person who faces the same struggles. Well worth a read.

[Rachel · Rating 3 out of 5]

Solid for a sports autobiography. Did not expect so many quotes from Marcus Aurelius. Or Nietzsche!