“HE’S GOOD, ISN’T he?”
These were the exact words of Andrew Trimble to me after Johann Muller had delivered another of his vintage team speeches, this particular one after a training session on the eve of the 2012 Heineken Cup semi-final against Edinburgh. Calm in its delivery, but its content carrying a hard, purposeful meaning, its impact on each member of the squad was evident.
It might be his dominating physical presence, his numerous Springbok international appearances, or the long list of accolades he’s achieved in the game. But when Johann talks, people listen.
Arriving in Belfast at the beginning of the 2010 European season, the same time as me, it’s fair to say his arrival carried a heavier weight of respect and expectation than what was resting on my shoulders.
Ulster craved success, and the signings of Johann, as well as South African teammate Ruan Pienaar were clear indications from Director of Rugby David Humphreys and, in particular, CEO Shane Logan of the heights that the club aspired to.
No longer wanting to be the third Irish province, in the shadow of Leinster and Munster, Ulster set out to climb the European ladder and stock the trophy cabinet, which had not been opened since the Celtic League title in 2005-2006.
Muller’s impact was immediate. On the field he was a crucial figure, calling the line-outs, rarely missing a tackle, and always providing a calming influence on the players around him, no matter how intense the situation.
“Fire in the belly, ice in the head,” he would always say. He was in control at all times, and for a team that included a diverse mix of youth and experience, he was the central figure who, along with the likes of Rory Best and Paddy Wallace, drove the team forward.
However, and I hope he doesn’t mind me saying this, I believe the work that Johann does away from match day, in the community and on the training field with the young players, has had a bigger impact than his consistent high quality performances in the Pro12 and Heineken Cup.
Yes, his four years at the club have coincided with Ulster’s best period of results in recent years, cementing them as one Europe’s top clubs. But his interaction with the Belfast community and his mentoring of the young players who have come through the system to be key figures in Ulster and Ireland rugby, has left an invaluable legacy that will remain long after he leaves Northern Irish shores.
The supporters and fans of Ulster are known throughout European rugby as being some of the most passionate and loyal, willing to travel all sorts of miles to see their team play. In a small city like Belfast, where most residents can be found at Ravenhill on a Friday night, the relationship between players and the community is key in maintaining a strong supporter base.
Unofficially adopted as a Belfast local, Johann always has time for the fans. It’s probably the toughest duty of a professional rugby player to front the fans after a loss, and listen to their critical summary of the game when all you want to do is get in the car and head home.
But time and time again he can be seen in the bar after games, talking to supporters, signing autographs, and posing for photographs with young kids before he sits down for his post-match meal.
As well as this, he gives up his free time on weekends to guest speak at numerous church services and events around Belfast, interacting with those who are avid rugby fans as well as those that know nothing about the game, nor his status in it.
At the end of this European season he’s decided to hang up the boots for the final time, calling an end to a career spanning over two decades including a World Cup win in 2007.
Many will have their personal memories of Johann, what he has done in South Africa as well as Belfast, and the way in which he has inspired them in sport and in life. More importantly, it’s the way in which he has gone about it, with his determined and measured approach that will leave the greatest legacy.
To me he was always someone that you could talk to about anything, easily approachable, and who always saw the bright side in any situation. If anyone deserves to leave the game with a trophy in hand, be it the Heineken Cup or RaboDirect Pro12 title, few would argue that Johann Muller is that man.
@adamdarcy played 54 times for Ulster from 2010 to 2013. He is currently with English Championship side Bristol.
Ulster play the Dragons in the Pro12 this evening at Ravenhill, with a 7.05pm kick-off.
