Donncha OCallaghan is one of Irelands leading international rugby players, and a stalwart of the Munster side. He was a key figure in the Irish team which won the IRB 6 Nations Grand Slam in 2009, and has won two Heineken Cup medals and a Magners League title with Munster. But that success did not come easy. For a player who has been capped more than 70 times for Ireland, won two Heineken Cups with Munster, and been on two Lions tours, his long battle to make a breakthrough at the highest level is largely unknown. In this revealing autobiography, Donncha talks in detail about the personal setbacks and disappointments at Munster and the unconventional ways he dealt with the frustration of not making the team for four of five years in his early 20s. He had a parallel experience with Ireland where it took him nearly six years to get from fringe squad member to established first choice player. Here he talks candidly about his relationships with the coaches who overlooked him and the second row rivals who kept him on the bench. Donncha talks with great warmth about a hectic childhood that was shaped by the death of his father when he was only six years old. Unusually for a Cork rugby player, he came from a working class background and one of the heroes of his story is his mother Marie who showed incredible strength and resourcefulness to rear a family of six on her own. Often regarded as “the joker in the pack,” Donncha has worked hard, with dedication and intensity, to reach the high standards required of a professional rugby player. There have been many highs and lows along the way. His autobiography is a fascinating account of a storming career, filled with anecdotes about the players and managers he has worked with. This is the full picture, showing sides of the man that will be unfamiliar to followers of Irish rugby and will surprise the reader.
**Delve into the Heart of Irish Rugby: The Inspiring Autobiography of Donncha O'Callaghan - *Joking Apart: My Autobiography*** Experience the raw emotion, unwavering dedication, and surprising vulnerability of one of Ireland's most beloved rugby icons in *Joking Apart: My Autobiography*. This captivating memoir takes you behind the scenes with Donncha O'Callaghan, a cornerstone of both the Munster and Irish national rugby teams, revealing the untold stories behind his illustrious career. More than just a tale of sporting triumph, this book is a testament to resilience and the power of perseverance. O'Callaghan, known for his infectious humor and relentless work ethic, lays bare the challenges he faced in his early years, battling to secure his place within the formidable Munster squad. Discover the depth of his frustration as he spent years on the fringes, struggling to break through despite his burning ambition. *Joking Apart* unflinchingly explores O'Callaghan's parallel journey with the Irish national team, detailing his long climb from squad player to established first-choice. He offers candid insights into his relationships with coaches who initially overlooked him and the fierce competition he faced from fellow second-row rivals. Readers will gain a new appreciation for the mental fortitude required to succeed at the highest level of professional sport. But this autobiography is more than just rugby. It's a deeply personal account of O'Callaghan's life beyond the pitch. He paints a vivid picture of his Cork childhood, shaped by the tragic early loss of his father. He shares heartwarming stories of his remarkable mother, Marie, a true hero who single-handedly raised six children with unwavering strength and resourcefulness. Her influence is a powerful undercurrent throughout the book, highlighting the importance of family and the values that shaped O'Callaghan's character. Beyond the Grand Slam victory of 2009, the Heineken Cup triumphs with Munster, and the coveted Lions tours, *Joking Apart* reveals the man behind the jersey. It's a story of hard work, dedication, and an unwavering belief in oneself, even in the face of adversity. Expect laughter, tears, and a profound understanding of the sacrifices required to reach the pinnacle of professional rugby. OCallaghan's honest and engaging storytelling will leave you feeling like you've shared a pint and a chat with the man himself. This autobiography provides a unique and often humorous insight into the life of a professional rugby player, offering valuable lessons about overcoming obstacles and achieving your dreams. Perfect for rugby fans and anyone seeking an inspiring and uplifting read. Prepare to be surprised and moved by the true story of Donncha O'Callaghan. Published by Transworld Publishers in 2012, this 352-page hardcover edition is a must-have for any rugby enthusiast's collection.