France Rugby League Roosebrouck
Joël Roosebrouck is a former French Rugby League captain who played in the 1980s. He was born on September 9th, 1953, in La Cavalerie, France. He played as a loose forward, and was known for his clever handling skills, powerful runs and aggressive tackling.
Roosebrouck started his rugby league career with his local club, Bias XIII, in 1986. He caught the attention of the national selectors, and made his debut for France in 1977, at the age of 24. He went on to play for France in 22 Tests, captaining the side on numerous occasions.
Roosebrouck was an integral part of the French 1977 Rugby League World Cup squad. He also played in the 1978 Test Series winning French team against the touring Kangaroos. Roosebrouck played as a replacement in the 11 points to 10 second test victory at the Stade Municipal in Toulouse.
In addition to playing for France, Roosebrouck also had a successful club career. He played for French clubs, including Bias XIII, Villeneuve-Sur-Lot, and US Trentels XIII.
Roosebrouck was known for his tough, no-nonsense approach to the game. He was a fearsome tackler, and his powerful runs often left defenders in his wake. Despite his aggressive style of play, he was also a respected leader on and off the field.
His spell at Villeneuve was marked by a French Championship title in 1980. A year later he won the European Championship after defeating Wales 21 points to 7 in Widnes. In which he crossed for two tries. Then captained France to success at Headingley, defeating England 5 points to 1.
He was regularly honoured by his club and country. Chosen as “sportsman of the year”. Also, “best sportsman from Lot-et-Garonne” at the Oscar du Sud-Ouest.
He finished his club rugby in style winning the Lord Derby Cup that year in 1984 with Villeneuve-sur-Lot. He’d previously won this in 1979. He joined the Second Division club Trentels-Ladignac and helped the club win the 1976 French Second Division title. At the end of this season he retired from the game.
Joël Roosebrouck is a legend of French rugby league,. And is regarded as one of the greatest players to have ever represented France. His tough, aggressive style of play endeared him to fans around the world, and his leadership both on and off the field was an inspiration to his teammates. His legacy continues to inspire a new generation of rugby league players in France. And his contributions to the sport will be remembered for many years to come.
Also, we celebrate the heroes of French Rugby League with our retro collections. In addition, our Retro France Rugby League Shirt Polo