Be careful what you wish for.
Former Lions and Wales star, Shane Williams, is set to face a completely new challenge, one which is much different from anything that he has faced in his long and distinguished career.
The 39-year-old has over 89 caps for Wales and has been a tourist on three British and Irish Lions Tours (2005, 2009 and 2013).
The flying winger, who won IRB player of the year in 2008, is also the highest try scorer Wales have ever produced and is fourth on the list of the world’s leading rugby union test try scorers.
Williams however, is now swapping the oval ball for the round one as he begins training with Donegal senior club champions, Glenswilly, as part of the documentary series, The Toughest Trade, created by AIB.
Williams’ training will culminate in a challenge match against a rival club where the former Welsh star will (hopefully) be able to showcase his skills with the round ball.
Donegal and Glenswilly talisman, Michael Murphy, will also be swapping sports, as he is set to try his hand at rugby with decorated French side, Clermont Auvergne.
Williams will have to fully immerse himself into the life of an amateur Gaelic Football player with adverse weather conditions, early morning gym sessions, holding down a full time job and night-time training sessions all aspects which he will have to deal with.
Williams is expecting that it won’t be an easy task.
“I’m not coming in with any expectation that it will be easy, that’s for sure. I know that it’s a physical sport and a highly skilled one, so I expect that I’m in for a hard time, and that’s exciting too.”
Williams is bullish however, as he states he doesn’t want anybody going easy on him. He wants the full, authentic experience.
“I want the boys to make it as hard as possible for me, so I can know what I’m capable of.”
A hectic training schedule, combined with ferocious weather conditions and a lack of pampering which may be more accustomed to the life of a professional rugby player – this could well be a shock to the system for Williams, we cannot wait to see how this pans out.
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