Shane Williams

Famed for his impressive tenure as a wing for both the Wales National Team and the Ospreys, Shane Williams MBE was a formidable Welsh rugby union player. He is highly regarded as Wales' most capped winger of all time, and is considered to be one of the most successful, loved wingers in the clubs history. As a testament to his triumphant career, he was awarded the World Rugby Player of the Year in 2008, and later the IRB Player of the Year. As a sports speaker, Shane reflects upon the highs and lows of competitive playing, as he candidly discusses topics like maximising success and overcoming professional challenges.

Born in Swansea, Shane's first taste of rugby was in primary school, despite being small for his age. Shane persevered, instead, playing football as the goalkeeper of Cwmamman United A.F.C. - he was described as a "superb goalkeeper". After one of his football games, Shane was asked to play with the Amman United RFC and scored five times, reigniting his love for rugby. He then joined the team, before moving to Neath to play as their second-choice scrum-half. Shane reflects upon this period of his life as an after-dinner speaker, in particular, his journey back to the sport he loved from a young age. An expert in adaptability, he encourages his audience to embrace their opportunities.

Since starting his rugby career in the mid-90s, he later turned professional in 1998. Playing at an international level from 1999 to 2003, Shane featured in the 2000 Six Nations, 2005 Six Nations Championship, the 2005 New Zealand Tour and the 2007 Rugby World Cup in France. Having played at elite level, Shane developed skills in remaining calm under pressure, managing a team and cultivating self-resilience. Testimonials from his speeches describe him as "fabulous" and a perfect presenter, indicating his capabilities as a sports speaker. A booking opportunity like Shane is not to be missed - your event deserves a charismatic, insightful speaker like this rugby legend.