Calvin Nash: Enjoying Rugby and Finding Golf as the Perfect Outlet

I got the chance recently to spend the day with Calvin Nash, Ireland and Munster’s flying winger, for the first episode of a brand-new series we’re doing with Opel.

Calvin Nash, Ireland and Munster Rugby winger

I wasn’t sure exactly what version of Calvin I’d get. In the modern era of professional sport, our athletes are trained to talk a little and say even less. On the pitch, he’s all pace, aggression and intensity. But off the pitch? He couldn’t have been more relaxed, open, and genuine, which made. the day an absolute pleasure.

From the start, Calvin had me hooked with how much he reflects back to the kid who first picked up a rugby ball in Limerick. “When you’re growing up just playing in the backyard, you dream of these moments,” he said, “but you don’t really believe they’ll happen until they do.” Hearing that from someone who’s now lining out for Ireland made me smile — because it’s the kind of thing every sports fan can relate to.

What really stood out was how honest he was about the challenges of stepping up to the international game. “It’s not just about being fit, or strong — it’s about how you respond when things aren’t going well; how you bounce back.” You can see that resilience in the way he plays, but hearing him talk about it gave me a whole new appreciation for the mental side of rugby at the top level.

Then there was the humility. Time and time again, he turned the conversation back to his teammates, the jersey, the bigger picture and those who inspire him. “Every time I pull on a Munster jersey, or when it’s Ireland, you know there’s brothers around you, expectations around you — you want to be better, you want to deliver.”

For me, that summed up Calvin perfectly. Talented, yes. Fierce competitor, definitely. But ultimately, someone who doesn’t let the hype go to his head. Or as he put it himself: “No matter how well things go, you’ve always to keep your feet grounded. One game, one season — it doesn’t define you forever.”

Personally as a Leinster fan, I've enjoyed some of the dominance by the boys in blue over their provincial rivals, but with the 2025/26 URC season starting afresh I will definitely be pulling for Calvin to continue to shine this season and get the rewards he deserves.

This chat with Calvin is just the start. Over the next few weeks, we’ve got more episodes coming out as part of this Opel series, including a brilliant one with Shamrock Rovers captain and Cape Verde international Roberto “Pico” Lopes. We talk about the great European run Rovers have been on and playing internationally. Trust me, you won’t want to miss that.

But for now, I’d love you to check out Episode 1 with Calvin Nash. He might be known for his blistering runs and finishing ability, but in this interview, he gave us a real look at the mindset and humility behind the player. I came away impressed — and I think you will too.