LEGEND TO LINE UP FOR SURFERS
SURFERS Paradise will be at the envy of their Gold Coast District Rugby Union pursuers thanks to an all-star playmaking line-up completed by Ben Gollings.
The 37-year-old is a rugby sevens legend, representing England from 1999 to 2012 in a career that still sees him stand as the world record holder for most points scored.
Gollings is set to mostly play fullback but can cover halfback or flyhalf and will pose a major threat playing alongside former Italy Test No.10 Kris Burton.
Gollings played one season of 15-a-side in 2013 but has solely coached since, including his current role heading Bond University’s women’s program.
“I felt something has been missing for a while and the opportunity to come and be back in that environment as a player excited me,” he said.
His comeback will have to wait at least one extra week though, with a quad tear forcing him out of Surfers’ season-opener against Helensvale on Saturday. He hopes to be fit for Round 2 against Gold Coast Eagles on March 17.
Gollings, who will commentate rugby sevens at the Commonwealth Games, knows Surfers will be targeted after back-to-back titles.
“I guess there is always pressure coming in and making sure you back it up but the focus for us is to enjoy the rugby and for me it is really to see rugby grow here locally,” he said.