From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Willie John McBride, MBE (b. June 6, 1940, Toomebridge, County Antrim) is a Northern Irish rugby union player.

He was christened William James McBride, but is known throughout the rugby world as "Willie John". He was educated at Ballymena Academy. His international rugby union debut was on February 10, 1962 against England at Twickenham, aged 21.

His international career lasted from 1962 until 1975, He played in a record 17 tests for the Lions. He was capped 63 times, (12 as Captain) by Ireland. He won the last 52 of his 63 caps in succession. In the 1960s when the robust physical play of the All Blacks and Springboks dominated, he was the only forward from the Home Nations who was their match.

Willie-John's outstanding leadership qualities led to his appointment as Captain of the 1974 Lions tour to South Africa. His partner at lock was the late Gordon Brown of Scotland. The test series was won 3-0, with one match drawn. It was the most controversial and physical test match series ever played. The management of the Lions concluded that the Springboks dominated their opponents with physical aggression. At that time there were only substitutions if a doctor agreed that a player was physically unable to continue and there were no video cameras and sideline officials to keep the punching, kicking, and head butting to a minimum. The Lions decided "to get their retaliation in first" with the infamous 99 call, which was a signal to the Lions to attack their nearest rival players.

In 1975 as his international career was ending he played his last game for Ireland at Lansdowne Road. The game was against France and near the end of the match, he scored his first ever try in an international match. It was the crowning moment of a great playing career. His last international game was against Wales on Saturday March 15, 1975.

After retiring from playing the game, Willie John coached the Irish team and was manager of the 1983 Lions tour to New Zealand. He lives in Ballyclare.

In 2004 he was named in Rugby World magazine as 'Heineken Rugby Personality of the Century.' He is a major supporter of Wooden Spoon, the charity for disadvantaged children and young people.

• Willie John: The Story of my Life by Willie John McBride and Peter Bills ISBN 0-7499-5024-2

• List of games