A month after he turned 38, Donncha O'Callaghan learned that his rugby career will tick into another season.
There was no doubt about it really, O'Callaghan had offers from two clubs other than his current employers Worcester. The Corkman has never seen himself as a journeyman and so decided to remain with the Aviva Premiership side which he joined two seasons ago.
Director of Rugby Gary Gold said re-signing O'Callaghan was a 'no-brainer'. Back in February, Gold hailed O'Callaghan for his performance against Saracens, calling him an 'international war horse'.
O'Callaghan took over as captain of the club earlier this season, helping guide them towards safety in English rugby's top tier.
Speaking to the Redditch Advertiser after the penning of his new deal, O'Callaghan tried to explain what has aided the longevity of his rugby career.
I think it’s how you look after yourself.
I am a non-drinking Irishman and I think that has helped me.
If you’re willing to put your head between two bums and push that’s all you need in the second row.
It’s a pulling, dragging, position so I am lucky you don’t need all the attributes of an athlete. It does takes longer to recover from games when you get older.
While speaking to the Worcester News, O'Callaghan further elaborated on his decision to stay with Worcester.
When Worcester started chatting to me about a new contract I knew it was the only option for me and the only place I wanted to play.
The training and recovery facilities allow me to perform every week and I think that’s a serious advantage for anyone looking to have an extra edge on their training.
We also have a great group of lads who have 100 per cent underperformed this season and we’re disappointed with how we’ve gone.
Photo by Seb Daly/Sportsfile
