Rory Best

Renowned for earning 124 caps for Ireland, Rory Best became a pivotal figure in Irish rugby, captaining both Ulster and his national team. His professional journey commenced with Belfast Harlequins in 2002, where he captained the side, before securing his first contract with Ulster Rugby in 2004. Best made his debut for Ulster in 2005 and swiftly established himself, leading the team as captain from the 2007/08 season until his retirement in 2019. During this distinguished period, he marked his 200th appearance for Ulster in the Pro14 in 2017.

Best further represented the British & Irish Lions on two tours in 2013 and 2017, making nine appearances and captaining the side on three occasions. Following his illustrious playing career, which concluded with his final match for Ireland at the 2019 Rugby World Cup, Best transitioned into coaching and leadership roles. In 2021, he joined the Seattle Seawolves as a technical and high-performance skills coach, bringing his extensive experience to developing elite athletes. Recognised for his exceptional contributions to rugby, Best was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 2017.

He now leverages his insights on leadership, resilience, and teamwork in various business development capacities, delivering impactful corporate speaking engagements. Beyond his professional endeavors, Best is a passionate advocate for charitable causes, particularly those focused on mental health awareness and supporting children with cancer. He has actively engaged in fundraising efforts for organizations such as the Cancer Fund for Children, utilizing his platform to raise significant support for vulnerable communities. Rory Best continues to be a highly sought-after figure, known for his ability to inspire and lead both on and off the field.