A transformational new book about mindset, from rugby and league icon Brad Thorn.
In his own words, Brad Thorn delves into lessons and learnings from his career as a Brisbane Bronco, Queensland Maroon, Kangaroo, Canterbury Crusader and world-cup winning All Black.
Brad Thorn played 500 games of professional rugby, finishing his career at age 41. His combined success at the highest levels of rugby union and rugby league is unprecedented.
He credits his achievements and longevity to his mental game, belief, and going the extra mile.
In Champions do Extra, Thorn talks about his journey from the laziest kid in the team to the hardest worker; embracing competition, especially with yourself; building a fortress in your mind 'brick by brick'; the power of humility; the fine margins between success and failure; looking after the body with food, sleep recovery, and stretching; using sport as a way to find a tribe and to fit in; and how lessons from sport can be applied to the business of life.
Champions do Extra draws on insights from the coaches he's played for, including: Wayne Bennett, Robbie Deans, Graham Henry and Steve Hansen; and the players he's played with, including: Gorden Tallis, Kevin Walters, Allan Langer, Darren Lockyer, Richie McCaw, Dan Carter, and Sonny Bill Williams.
Thorn also reflects on his mental health journey and his struggles with anxiety, as well as the damage excessive alcohol can do to the body and the mind.
As he re-lives some of the most iconic moments in sporting history, on both sides of the Tasman, Thorn talks about the differences and similarities between Australia and New Zealand, between Australians and New Zealanders, and between leaguies and codeheads.
Thorn's sporting achievements include:
- Four rugby league titles
- A World Club Championship
- Two State of Origin titles
- The 2011 Rugby World Cup title
- Bledisloe Cups in 2003, 2008, 2009, 2010 and 2011
- Tri-Nations titles 2003, 2008 and 2010
- Grand Slams in 2008 and 2010
- 2012 Heineken Cup winner with Leinster
Thorn has been credited as a mentor to many greats of the sport, including the most capped All Black of all time and second most capped international player in rugby, Samuel Whitelock.
'Brad Thorn set up my career. I can't put it more simply than that'
- Samuel Whitelock, most capped All Black of all time.
