Veteran Fly-half Gopperth Reaches Remarkable 500-Game Milestone
As Leinster, one of his former clubs, prepares to compete in a record-equaling eighth Champions Cup final against Toulouse – the only team that can match their accomplishments in this regard – Jimmy Gopperth is basking in a major milestone of his own: 500 professional games. Gopperth reached this impressive feat in Provence’s 40-22 victory against Grenoble, marking the occasion with his first yellow card in six years.
The fly-half/centre, who is only a matter of weeks away from his 41st birthday, has had an incredible career. Next season, if his current club Provence secures promotion to the Top 14 via the play-offs, Gopperth will become the oldest player in the history of France’s top-flight rugby league, surpassing the record held by fellow Kiwi Karena Wihongi.
Gopperth’s journey has taken him from his beginnings in windy Wellington back in 2002 to stops at the Hurricanes and Blues in Super Rugby, as well as stints with Newcastle, Wasps, and Leicester in the English Premiership, and Leinster in the former RaboDirect PRO 12 (now United Rugby Championship). Throughout his illustrious career, Gopperth has amassed an astounding 4,113 points across 500 professional games.
“The surfing enthusiast attributes his longevity to not only his physical fitness but also his state of mind. Indulging in his passions for surfing and golf has helped him maintain a healthy work-life balance, preventing burnout and allowing him to compete at the highest level.”
As Gopperth prepares for the prospect of playing in the Top 14 next season, the possibility of promotion with Provence is an enticing prospect. The club, though relatively young, has never finished in the top six before, and Gopperth is eager to be part of the group that helps Provence reach the top echelon of French rugby.
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