James Slipper

James Slipper began his senior rugby career playing for the Easts Tigers in the Queensland Rugby Union competition. His early performances at the club level showcased his potential as a promising prop, attracting the attention of higher level teams and selectors. His debut marked the start of what would become a distinguished rugby union career, placing him on a path that would lead to national and international achievements.

James Slipper made his debut for the Australian national rugby union team, the Wallabies, on June 12, 2010, in a match against England in Perth. Making an international debut is a significant milestone for any player, and for Slipper, it marked the beginning of a long and successful international career. It was the culmination of his hard work and dedication to the sport, having moved through the ranks from junior levels to national representation.

James Slipper was selected to represent Australia in the 2011 Rugby World Cup held in New Zealand. He played a vital role in the Wallabies' campaign and demonstrated his skills and resilience as a key forward player. His participation in the World Cup solidified his position as a regular starter for the team in the coming years. The tournament is one of the biggest in rugby, and playing in it is a major achievement for any player.

In November 2014, James Slipper was named vice-captain of the Wallabies ahead of their year-end tour to Europe. This appointment was a testament to his leadership qualities and the respect he had earned within the team. Having already established himself as a core player in the squad, his role as vice-captain allowed him to take on more responsibilities and contribute to the team's strategic planning and execution on and off the field.

James Slipper was a crucial part of the Australian team that reached the final of the 2015 Rugby World Cup. The Wallabies faced New Zealand in this decisive match at Twickenham Stadium. Although Australia did not secure the victory, reaching the final and playing an important role in such a high-stakes game was a significant accomplishment for Slipper and his teammates. It highlighted his standing as one of the top players in international rugby.

In July 2016, James Slipper suffered a significant Achilles injury during training, which ruled him out for much of the season. Injuries are a challenging aspect of any athlete's career, and this particular one was a serious setback for Slipper, requiring surgery and extensive rehabilitation. However, he demonstrated great resilience and determination to recover fully and return to professional rugby, proving his dedication and tenacity.

In 2019, James Slipper joined the ACT Brumbies after spending ten seasons with the Queensland Reds. This move represented a fresh start and new opportunities within Super Rugby. The change in the club also allowed him to revitalize his career and bring experience and leadership skills to his new team. His transfer to the Brumbies was seen as beneficial for both the player and the club, marking a successful new chapter in his professional rugby career.

James Slipper celebrated his 100th cap in Super Rugby while playing for the ACT Brumbies. This milestone represents a significant achievement in his career, highlighting his longevity and consistency as a top-performing rugby player. Playing 100 games in Super Rugby is a testament to his fitness, skill, and dedication to the sport. It also underscores his contributions to every team he has been a part of, cementing his legacy in the competition.

In October 2020, James Slipper helped lead the ACT Brumbies to victory in the inaugural Super Rugby AU competition, securing the title. This victory was particularly significant as it occurred during a challenging year marked by the COVID-19 pandemic, which had impacted sports worldwide. The win demonstrated Slipper's crucial role in the Brumbies' success and his ability to perform at a high level amidst challenging circumstances.

In September 2021, James Slipper was selected to captain the Wallabies in their Rugby Championship match against Argentina. This opportunity showcased his continued leadership qualities and his ability to lead the national team. His selection as captain was seen as a recognition of his experience and influence within the squad, highlighting his status as a senior and respected player in Australian rugby.