Joel Everson- NZ Rugby player who spent 23 days in a Japanese Prison

Joel Everson with potentially the craziest story ever on What a Lad! This episode will blow your mind and I’m sure it will also inspire you as well as help many.

Joel Everson is the 2:06m lock who had a 12 year rugby career playing for Canterbury, Southland, the Crusaders, Clermont and Hino in Japan. It was his time in Hino where his life was flipped upside down, coming out of a night club in Tokyo, surrounded by Police to then being locked away in a Japanese prison for 23 days.

There’s soo much in this one and some keys points that stood out were…

The challenges he faced after his rugby career transitioning into a normal life and finding his passion.

He talks about his upbringing, the impact of his parents' divorce, and how rugby became his escape.

How different his life could’ve been had he not found rugby as he was heading down the troubled path.

Joel discusses his time in the Crusaders Academy, his pathway into Canterbury and the Crusader and his move to Japan.

He reflects on the moments leading up to his arrest, his time in the holding cell, and the challenges he faced mentally and emotionally.

Joel discusses the support he received from his family and friends, the impact on his rugby career, and the lessons he learned from the experience.

He emphasises the importance of self-care, seeking help, and being aware of one's thoughts and mental health.

And heaps more!

As you’ll hear the fact that Joel was open to coming on and sharing his story so openly in the chance it may help someone in a similar position just goes to show you what a champion lad he is,I know you will enjoy this episode so when you do please give it a share.