Recalling a conversation with his father Dirk about the average rugby career being likened to just about “60 games,” 31-year-old Josh van der Flier reflects on his journey as the Leinster openside flanker. As he embarks on a new season, he recognises the unpredictable nature of luck and its impact on his peers’ careers.
“I’m truly thankful to have surpassed that mark,” van der Flier admits. The story of Dan Leavy, who consequently had to halt his rugby career due to injury at a similar age, often crosses his mind. He feels fortunate to continue with his career in the sport, harbouring aspirations to emulate Cian Healy’s success.
Healy recently completed his 281st rugby game for Leinster, outperforming Devin Toner’s previous record. A standout player, the Irish prop additionally holds 131 Irish caps, falling just shy of the record set by former centre and captain of the Irish team, Brian O’Driscoll.
Van der Flier, hailing from Benetton, has seen Italy’s rugby resurgence. He also recollects Connacht’s nail-biting win over Scarlets and the anticipated showdown between Terenure and Lansdowne.
In contrast, he can’t help but remember his first time at the Ireland camp in 2016. Sharing a room with Rob Kearney, he was advised to appreciate every moment of his career since it passes swiftly. “He was younger than I am at present. To me, he seemed so mature! He told me how fast time goes. And I never imagined how swiftly it would pass, but I feel fantastic,” van der Flier exclaimed.
Kearney’s wisdom continues to resonate with van der Flier. Currently, in his career, he perceives time as a limited commodity. His ambition to triumph with Leinster intensifies each progressing season as he enters the twilight of his career, transitioning from his prime years of the20s to the 30s. This period of his life also serves as an opportunity for introspection.
At a young age, he held the perception of time as an indefinite resource with potential for countless endeavors. It’s like when he was 20 and competing in the past Pro14, a loss would merely signify another 20 attempts in running. Now, in this phase of his life, he’s becoming conscious of the limited opportunities to come but maximizing every single one, including making a deliberate move to find enjoyment. It’s something he’s always sought after, but now with increased zeal.
He sat on the reserves during the previous season’s Champions Cup final. Van der Flier, beginning both Tests versus South Africa during the summer tour, has earned 63 caps and still retains a learning attitude. Yet, a deeper understanding doesn’t always alleviate disappointment.
Jacques Nienaber, during their meetings, emphasizes mindset among other things. One of his insights that proved most significant was the acceptance of disappointment. For instance, upon receiving news of exclusion from a week’s play, it’s permissible to experience irritation or even anger towards the coaches. However, current sentiments lean towards eagerness and anticipation. As a backrow player, his focus is now on the forthcoming warm day in Italy and the match against Benetton this weekend.