Ellis Genge is known for speaking his mind, whether it’s throwing some playful jabs at England’s critics or joking with former England captain Will Carling. He’s never been shy to be candid.
He recently reflected on his life, saying, “I’d probably be in the nick if it wasn’t for rugby.”
It’s clear that the sport played a significant role in shaping his path.
From Bristol’s Streets to the England Pack
Growing up in the council estate of Knowle West in Bristol, Genge’s journey to rugby wasn’t your typical one.
Raised in a football-loving family, with a dad who supported the sport, rugby wasn’t a central focus at home.
“My dad used to take me down to Bristol Rovers,” Genge recalls, adding that Bristol Rugby played in the same stadium.
Though rugby wasn’t the main sport in his life, he was always around it, even if his friends were more interested in football.
“Even when I played for England, some of them didn’t know it was my full-time job,” Genge laughs.
But rugby, with all its challenges, eventually became his way out.
Looking back, he admits that his previous lifestyle wasn’t sustainable, and without the sport, he might’ve gone down a more difficult road.
Despite his rise to fame, Genge stays connected to his roots in Bristol, where he continues to give back.
His Genge Fund recently raised £22,000 for youth charities, helping kids in his old community find opportunities they might not otherwise have.
It’s all part of Genge’s desire to mentor and support others, making him a perfect fit as vice-captain of the England team.
The Scotland Showdown: A Test of England’s Resilience
As England prepares for their Six Nations clash against Scotland at Twickenham, Genge has more at stake than just the result.
England has struggled against Gregor Townsend’s team in recent years, with a four-year losing streak hanging over them.
However, Genge is determined to turn the tide.
The last time England beat Scotland, back in 2020, Genge scored the winning try—a moment he’s proud of and still enjoys reminiscing about.
“I’ve dined out on that moment for years,” he admits.
But Genge isn’t one for petty trash talk. He’s respectful of Scotland’s passionate play, acknowledging that they are a “brave lot” who always bring intensity to the game.
“I love playing against them,” Genge adds, knowing that it’s always a tough battle.
A Family Link to Scotland
In a surprising twist, Genge also has some Scottish roots.
My nan’s dad was Scottish,” he shares, though he’s not exactly sure where in Scotland he hailed from.
“I couldn’t have played for Scotland with current selection criteria,” he jokes, “but maybe on a technicality.”
It adds a personal layer to his upcoming match against them, adding to the excitement as England looks to finally end their losing streak.
Leading by Example: The Importance of Empathy and Support
Off the field, Genge has emerged as a leader and a mentor to the younger players on the team.
“I’m probably one of the oldest people there,” he says, laughing, adding that he’s often seen as a father figure.
His role extends beyond just rugby advice—he’s there for the players when they need someone to talk to.
Genge understands the pressures of being in the squad and makes sure his teammates know that they’re not alone.
“We are not machines,” he says, emphasizing the need for empathy and understanding, especially during tough times in camp.
This compassionate leadership style, Genge says, was something he learned from former Edinburgh coach Richard Cockerill, who helped him improve his game.
Genge credits Cockerill with teaching him how to refine the technical aspects of his play, like moving the ball better, something he hadn’t focused on in his earlier years.
Triumph with Leicester: A Career Milestone
Genge’s journey through rugby has also seen him achieve great success at the club level.
In 2022, he captained Leicester Tigers to a Premiership title, a moment he calls the most “satisfying” of his career.
It was a rags-to-riches story, with Leicester’s resurgence symbolizing the importance of hard work and good karma.
“Put the work in, stay quiet, go about our business, and get a trophy at the end of it,” Genge reflects.
His daughter even enjoys wearing his championship medal, calling it her “necklace.”
With England’s Six Nations campaign in full swing and a key match against Scotland on the horizon, Genge is ready to lead by example, both on and off the field.
Whether it’s supporting his teammates or helping kids back in Bristol, his passion for rugby—and for helping others—continues to drive him forward.
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