Will Genia marvels at former teammate's 'complete transformation'

Former Wallabies star Will Genia has praised the “complete transformation” of James O’Connor, saying he’s thrilled to see his former teammate thriving.

O’Connor’s career was at the crossroads in 2017 when he was arrested in Paris for possessing cocaine.

That incident came after he had fallen out of favour at the Wallabies following a string of off-field incidents.

All Blacks Dane Coles, Sevu Reece, Shannon Frizell, and Scott Barrett share their favourite drills, what other position they want to play and what their number one tip is for young rugby players. Brought to you by Healthspan Elite.

All Blacks Dane Coles, Sevu Reece, Shannon Frizell, and Scott Barrett share their favourite drills, what other position they want to play and what their number one tip is for young rugby players. Brought to you by Healthspan Elite.

O’Connor had lost his passion for the game at the time, and had become a shell of his former self as he battled with drugs, alcohol, and depression.

But the 30-year-old has transformed his life, winning back his Wallabies spot and even being named stand-in skipper at the Queensland Reds earlier this year.

Genia, who is now with Japanese club Kintetsu Liners, has watched on with pride as his good friend came out the other side of his struggles.

“Just as a mate, it’s been great to see his transformation,” Genia said.

“You think about where he’s come from, with the cocaine issues, the prescription drug issues and just losing the enjoyment and passion for playing football.

“Obviously he had to deal with his issues personally around how he was as a person and how he carried himself.

“I’m just so happy to see – it’s like a complete transformation. He’s now the captain of the Queensland Reds.

“That’s a reflection of how he’s changed the way he is as a person, how much he’s grown, how much he’s matured.

“More than the rugby, I’m just so happy to see he’s come through the other side and come through as such a better person now. That genuinely makes me happy.”

The Reds sit on top of the Super Rugby AU standings with a perfect 6-0 record, and will be aiming to make it seven straight wins when they take on the Brumbies at Suncorp Stadium on Saturday night.

– Justin Chadwick

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