Watch Sale Sharks’ Ben Curry share his journey with OPRO, from grassroots rugby to playing professionally for England Rugby.
From playful backyard cricket matches to roaring stadiums packed with international rugby fans, Ben Curry’s journey is a testament to passion, dedication, and resilience. Growing up, sports were an integral part of his life. Whether it was soccer, cricket, or even a stint in netball, his competitive spirit was always alive. But rugby? That was his true calling.
The sibling rivalry with his brother Tom was intense but fun. Victories in backyard games were celebrated with playful pranks, like locking the losing sibling outside. Their dad, who was also their first coach, often had to step in, especially in their early rugby days. Starting with tag rugby, the game’s complexity grew, and so did their skills. By the time tackling was introduced, Ben had found his spot at fly-half, skillfully dodging contact.
His progression through rugby was natural—school teams, county teams, and joining Sale Sharks at just 14 or 15. Moving up through England’s age-group teams—the U16s, U18s, and U20s—was a journey marked by growth, learning, and an ever-deepening love for the game. Today, with more than 150 appearances for Sale Sharks, the journey feels both long and fleeting.
OPRO has been a constant companion throughout his career. His first custom OPRO mouthguard, received while playing for the England U16s, is a cherished memory. It wasn’t just protective gear; it was a badge of honor—a symbol of pride during those early schoolboy rugby days. Thankfully, he’s avoided major injuries, though there have been close calls, like the training incident with Peter Stringer. Moments like that only reinforced his trust in OPRO’s protection.
Captaining the U20s in the 2018 rugby championship was a defining moment in Ben’s career. Facing a tough French team in front of a massive, passionate crowd taught him valuable lessons about handling pressure and adversity. It’s one of his most cherished memories. Another highlight was the emotional victory against Wales at the Principality Stadium—a lifelong dream fulfilled and a major milestone achieved.
To young athletes, Ben’s message is clear: diversify your sporting experiences. Try everything—rugby, bowling, golf, you name it. It’s not just about developing skills but also broadening your horizons, meeting diverse people, and gaining valuable life lessons. Setbacks will happen, both in sports and in life, but what matters most is how you bounce back. The ability to grow through challenges is what truly defines a champion. In the world of sports, where obstacles are a daily occurrence, resilience is the foundation of success.
