Campese

Discover the untold stories of Rugby legend David Campese in this compelling trade paperback, published by Scribe Publications in 2021. This 256-page volume offers an intimate glimpse into the life of the player who revolutionized Rugby Union with his unmatched flair and instinctive style of play. Campese, often dubbed the 'Bradman of Rugby' and the 'Pele of Rugby', mesmerized fans and left defenders clawing in vain as he danced across the pitch. Through this book, readers will explore Campese's transformation from one of the game's last amateurs to a groundbreaking professional. The narrative captures the essence of the 1980s and 1990s Rugby era, a time when Campese's audacious moves brought unparalleled excitement to the field, making every match an unforgettable spectacle. Dive into the pages to understand how Campese’s unique approach challenged conventions and brought a new wave of supporters to the sport. Written by James Curran, this masterful account is not just a biography; it's a tribute to an athlete whose legacy continues to shape the world of Rugby today. Perfect for avid Rugby enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone interested in sports legends, this book is a must-have addition to your collection. Get your copy of "David Campese: The Ultimate Showman of Rugby" and relive the magic and memories of this exceptional player, only at Smartfox NZ!
Condition: BRAND NEW
ISBN: 9781922310576
Format: Trade paperback (UK)
Year: 2021
Publisher: Scribe Publications
Pages: 256


Description:
As a rugby player, David Campese seemed to operate on pure instinct, one that left many a defender clutching for him in vain, stranded in the slipstream of his audacity. He followed no straight path, observed no convention, and in so doing brought a whole swag of new supporters to the game. Hailed as the 'Bradman of Rugby' by former Wallaby coach Alan Jones, and the 'Pele' of Rugby by others, Campese was a match-winner. True, he could lose the odd game as well, but this was part of his unique allure- Campese took crowds to the edge of their seats ... and their patience.

The refrain 'I saw Campese play' now speaks to much more than wistful reminiscences about a player widely regarded as the most entertaining ever to play the game of Rugby Union. It has come to represent a state of chronic disbelief that the Wallaby ascendancy of Campese's era - the style, panache, and winning ways of the Australian team in the 1980s and 1990s - has now been squandered by Rugby's continuing struggle to adapting to the coming of professionalism.

Campese occupies a unique intersection in the sport's history- one of its last amateurs, and one of its first professionals. The rigid, robotic game of today appears incapable of accommodating a player of his dash and daring, or of replicating his teams' successes.



'A smart writer pursues one of Australia's most elusive and enigmatic champions. The result is shrewd, measured, evocative, and, at times, transporting.'
-Gideon Haigh, author of On Warne

'David Campese could impact a rugby field like a shooting star in the night sky, and James Curran's masterful account lifts us into that stratosphere ... As a rugby entertainer and show stopper, Campese was simply the best. Finally, here is a book that does this one-off player justice.'
-Gordon Bray, veteran sports commentator