| By :
Dirik Hameed
One of the most popular sports speakers to work on the UK circuit is Sean Fitzpatrick. Considered the epitome of a sports hero, he was looked up to by every young man. He was an amazing player and a leader on and off the field in the lifetime of his rugby career. "Fitzy", as he was nicknamed, was a great player. He began playing in 1986 and retired in 1998. Since the 1987 World Cup he has played 99% of all the games. He was set to the captain of the All Black team, and was considered as among the best captains it ever had. He was appointed captain of the All Blacks in 1992 and played in 121 international matches, including 92 Test matches. In 1996 he was part of the Auckland Blues team which won the inaugural Super 12 competition and in August 1996 he led the All Blacks to win the inaugural Tri-Series competition against Australia and South Africa, and the greatest crown of all a 2-1 test series win against the Springboks in South Africa, the first ever by an All Black Team in South Africa. In 1997 Fitzy and the All Blacks had an undefeated 12 test matches. Later he also became part of the Buckland Team. He got a series of knee injuries, and because of said injuries he announced his retirement from the sport in 1998. Sean could also list writer as one of his occupations. He had written the book "Turning Point, the Making of a Captain" which was very popular among fans. Ever since its release in 1998 it's one of the bestselling books. In March 1999 Sean was appointed as "Rugby Consultant" to the NZRFU responsible for player development and liaison. Sean is also a philanthropist. He's connected with a lot of different charities. Through the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation which he co-founded, he wanted to bring about social change through sport. He is also ambassador for New Zealand's Variety Club. He is also affiliated with Ronald McDonald House and Starship Children's Hospital. The most caps for a forward, currently 51, is a world record in Sean's name. The count is up to 51. Sean has also been inducted in 2001 in the International Rugby Hall of Fame and in 2002 in the NZ Sports Hall of Fame. He was also an honorary member of the World Sports Academy. Aside from all these honors, Sean is also a well known speaker. Sean was very well known for his amazing sports career and all his achievements. He is now gaining even more respect and fame through his speaking skills as well. There are other sports speakers in the UK circle as well. These are Sir Henry Cooper, who is a boxing champion; Alec Stewart, cricketer; Nigel Owens, international rugby referee; and Paul Walsh, football player. Said personalities often get invites to deliver key note speeches at various events.
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