Sex, Tries and Videotape

The playing career of a professional rugby player is not going to be too long, James Haskell (Hask) had already achieved 17+ years at the top level with, 77 appearances for his country and having played in England, France, Japan and New Zealand. So, a challenge many rugby players face is ....

Howare they to create a living after rugby?

There are only so many who can go into coaching, management and sports punditry on TV. Hask, like many others, has branched out into a number of areas.

Such as, he has published at least two books (one being amongst Sunday Times bestsellers) . He has appeared on celebrity TV shows, given advice on exercise and diet, ran charity auctions, after dinner speaker and co-hosts a very successful podcast ‘The Good, The Bad and The Rugby”, and for over 9 years has been a successful DJ.

His latest venture is his show “Sex, Tries and Videotape”.

I attended the sold out show at Playhouse Theatre in Norwich. Performing a solo show of two 45 minute sections is no mean feat and requires a lot of confidence, which Hask has in abundance. Clearly this is early in his one man show career and he is still honing his skills. A few times Hask joked "...there are no refunds offered for this show, so hope you have prepared yourself for this performance."

Hask described his journey to Wasps and his entrepreneurial activities at school, that resulted in “Sex, Tries and Videotape” being coined by one of our national tabloids (as he was announced for future stardom in rugby).

He related how he imagined the call up to the England squad could be, with the protocols and fuss that would come with such an invitation. This contrasted significantly with what actually happened. No special delivery letter, no delivery by RFU footmen, no chariot to take him to Twickenham. In fact, a bulk email sent to all prospects. An email he could easily have missed.

He told of his experiences at the first official England game, before, during and after. He had the Norwich audience in roars of laughter on a number of his tales. In particular his initiationprocess.

In the second half of the show we heard his take on England managers including Stuart Lancaster and Eddie Jones. It was clear hehad different relationships with each.

Through his friendship with Mike Tindall, there were the opportunities of meeting the high and mighty of the land, which was also expanded upon. Again much to the delight of the audience.

Hask explained his venture to France and in particular his appearance in Dieux de Stade.

Clearly this show had been very much tailored to a rugby audience. If you are a sensitive person this may not be the offering for you and if you class yourself as an advocate of politicalcorrectness, probably give this a swerve.

Hask is developing his style and skill in this format and I am sure as his tour progresses he will fine-tune the content.