Champions Do Extra

A transformational new book about mindset, from rugby and league icon Brad Thorn.

Brad Thorn's career rewrote the rules of what an athlete can achieve.

From his country upbringing on the frosty fields of Otago in New Zealand to the baked turf of Queensland in Australia, Brad Thorn reveals the powerful lessons he learned in his relentless pursuit of excellence, inspiring readers to unlock their own potential.

In a remarkable 30-year career, spanning 477 games of professional footy across two codes, the dual international played for some of the highest performing teams on the planet: the All Blacks, Kangaroos, Queensland Maroons, Brisbane Broncos and Canterbury Crusaders. He was still playing professionally at the age of 41.

Brad Thorn's trophy cabinet includes a Rugby World Cup, four Rugby League NRL premiership titles, two State of Origins series, one Super Rugby title, five Bledisloe Cups, three Tri Nations titles, two NPC titles, the Ranfurly Shield, and a European Rugby Champions Cup.

Thorn credits his achievements and longevity to the lessons in this book, and, above all, the credo his father taught him 'champions do extra'.

Champions Do Extra is an inspirational story about what family, faith and footy can teach us about how to succeed.

'I don't use the word "principle" about many people, but he is one of the most principled people I've ever met.' - Wayne Bennett

'A compass for anyone aspiring to achieve in sport or life.' - Robbie Deans

'Thorny wasn't just a dual code international athlete, he was a winner and achieved success with every team he was a part of.' - Kevin Walters, Brisbane Broncos Hall of Fame and head coach of the Australia Kangaroos

'A once-in-a-generation man. His strength runs far deeper than his muscle - it lives in his values, his discipline and his care for others.' - Gilbert Enoka, All Blacks' mental performance and leadership coach

'Brad Thorn set up my career. I can't put it more simply than that.' - Samuel Whitelock, All Blacks' most capped test player

'A champion in the arena.' - Joe Schmidt

About the Author

Brad Thorn is a former rugby league and rugby union player and coach. He won four premierships with the Brisbane Broncos, during the team's most successful era. He appeared for Queensland 14 times and Australia 8 times, after which he made the successful transition to playing rugby union, representing the All Blacks in 59 test matches and winning a Rugby World Cup in 2011. Born in Mosgiel, New Zealand, he moved to Brisbane at the age of 9. His professional career started at age nineteen, and finished at age forty-one. He currently lives in Brisbane, Australia.