Back to School: Tackling Japanese and Life Lessons

What’s happening, friends? It’s Freddie Burns, your favourite rugby player turned student! That’s right, I’ve taken on the challenge of learning Japanese, and I’m here to tell you all about how hitting the books is a lot like hitting the field.

The discipline required to study a new language is immense. Japanese, with its three alphabets and complex grammar, might just be tougher than any opponent I’ve faced on the pitch. But just like in rugby, you tackle it head-on. Every new word, every sentence structure is a small victory, not unlike scoring a try.

The focus needed to study effectively is another parallel to rugby. In both, you need to be present, mindful, and fully committed to the task at hand. Whether I’m learning how to order sushi or reading about Japanese history, it’s about giving it my all.

But what really ties it all together is the passion. You need passion to push through the tough tackles and the difficult lessons. My love for rugby has always driven me on the field, and now my fascination with Japanese culture and language fuels my studies.

Learning Japanese has been more than just an academic pursuit; it’s been a journey into a culture that values precision, respect, and community—values that resonate deeply with me as an athlete. The discipline I’ve honed through rugby has helped me stay committed to my studies, while the focus has improved my mental agility, both on and off the pitch.

And the benefits? They extend far beyond just communicating. Understanding another language and culture fosters greater empathy and connection, skills as valuable in the locker room as they are in any global interaction.

So whether it’s breaking down a new defensive line or deciphering a complex kanji character, the principles remain the same: focus, discipline, and a whole lot of heart. Here’s to new challenges and lifelong learning—because no matter what you’re tackling, it’s the passion that makes all the difference.