When Matt Cornwell was 20 years old he watched his best mate become paralysed at rugby training... a day that altered his life forever.

He went on to carve out a serious pro rugby career, representing Leicester Tigers, Exeter Chiefs, and Northampton Saints. But his impact stretched well beyond the field. With the backing of the rugby community, he helped build the Matt Hampson Foundation, supporting his injured friend and others facing life-changing injuries.

After stepping away from playing, Matt stayed close to the game. First as Team Manager at Leicester, then as Head of Rugby Operations at Edinburgh Rugby.

And then… another pivot.

Matt has since taken on a completely new challenge, moving into the world of global software sales! Proving once again he’s not afraid to evolve.

A wild journey, and an even better conversation. Loved sitting down and picking the brain of someone who’s transitioned out of the game and never left attack mode. 🚀

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A story about... well... just having a crack really!

Massive respect for Troy and the way he's been able to transition almost seamlessly from an 18 year rugby career into entrepreneurship!

From forging Troy Prehab, launching Haka Rugby Global, and now Footy Nippers. It was awesome to chat with Troy and reflect on 11 years of business building!

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When Alex Opacic’s knee stopped cooperating, his pro basketball career was over the very next day…

A brutal reminder that sport is a business first. 💔

Like many athletes, it took Alex years to find PEACE with that part of his story.

But from the ashes he rose into the world of sales and now leads his own venture Athlete2Business… a recruitment agency helping ex-athletes transition into high-performing sales roles. 🚀

Alex firmly believes athletes and the transferable skills they bring, are often undervalued in the business realm. 

Tell me you don’t wanna hear more ! ☺️🍿

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Ever wondered what it would be like supporting your partner through retirement? This week we dive into the real side of life after sport, not just for the athlete, but for the partner standing beside them through it all.

Dan (ex-professional rugby player for North Harbour) and Storm (former pro netballer for the Northern Mystics, U21 New Zealand Netball Team, the Southern Steel, the Northern Stars and New Zealand's Silver Ferns) met when playing their respective sports, retired side by side, and have since stepped into marriage, new careers and starting their family.

Massive thanks to them both for booking the babysitter and taking the time to share their story with us.

Buckle up!

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If you don't know the name go back and watch your footy from the early 2000s!

Once a tough, abrassive openside flanker, Ben had a rugby career many would covet! Playing for teams like the Hurricanes, Leicester Tigers and ofcourse the mighty Southland Stags!

After 3 bad concussioons ended his time between the white lines, Ben unexpectedly found himself on the other side of the game. Coaching.

Now with almost 2 decades under his belt. Ben provides the perfect synopsis to what life really looks like when pivoting from player to coach.

The highs, the lows, the pressure!... Not to mention the 4 kids born in 4 different countries around the globe.

A must listen for any athlete or ex-athlete considering picking up the whistle and cones!

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Thinking of transitioning out of sport? Wondering what's next? You're not alone. ‪@ThePivotPoddy‬ is about getting together with ex-athletes and finding out how they did it, what they've learned and what they would share with others who are hunting for their next thrill.

Episode 1: Introducing Dan Kirkpatrick, professional rugby player in Aotearoa for The Hurricanes, The Blues and winner of the illustrious Top 14 Title in France. Dan experienced a career in sport, cut short with injuries. A story so famiilar for many athletes. Dan shares about his transition to life after footy, the reality of starting again, goal setting, his drive to continue learning and taking big risks, what inspires him and how he genuinely loves this chapter in his life now, more than before.

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