During a player’s post-career period, their inner circle plays a major role. It is with them that they build themselves in their new life. To understand its importance, let’s look back at the story of Rodrigo Capó Ortega, for whom the post-career phase meant a true hell. Thanks to his wife, Julie, he was able to overcome it.
There is perhaps nothing more beautiful than living out one’s passion, which is proudly shared with loved ones. But it’s a paradox in itself. And this paradox becomes apparent when everything abruptly stops. It is in these moments that one’s inner circle plays a more crucial role than just being there during the good times.
For Rodrigo Capó Ortega, the second-row player with 41 caps for Uruguay, whose entire career was with Castres Olympique where he won two Boucliers de Brennus, the aftermath was nothing like he had envisioned. “The post-career, it was a sudden stop, as it came to an end during Covid,” recounts his wife, Julie. “He played his last match without knowing it. He had imagined a lot about his retirement after over 20 years at the club, idealizing the moment, and we didn’t necessarily expect it. He even thought he could come back, but then came the lockdown.”
The lockdown eventually turned into a nightmare. While everything seemed fine on the surface, the behavior of the former CO player gradually changed. Occupied with a demanding job and her role as an elected official in Castres, Julie’s daily life was overwhelmed, especially as she was involved in legislative elections at that time and juggling her role as a mother. “I was busy outside the house, not realizing the extent of the situation. Rodrigo is a warrior, so I never thought he could fall. I kept telling myself, ‘Everything is fine, we have a home, healthy children, and the CO didn’t abandon him,’ as he had been offered a role coaching the Youth Team. I didn’t want to see Rodrigo’s downfall,” she shared.
Context: Rodrigo Capó Ortega, a former rugby player, faced challenges post his playing career, including a struggle with addiction.
Fact Check: The article mentions Rodrigo playing his last match during Covid, which could refer to the Covid-19 pandemic period impacting sports events globally.
Note: The Conversion has been shortened for brevity.
