Throughout his youth career, Leonard played for his home club, Barking as well as his school team. His natural skill within the sport became more evident during this period and he became recognised by the Saracens. He joined the London club in 1989 before moving to the Harlequins.
He remained with the Harlequins for the entirety of his club career, he showed loyalty to the team and made a total of 290 appearances. His international career saw him make 114 appearances for England, he broke several records throughout this period of his career including becoming England’s most capped player and the first ever front-row to make 100 international appearances. Also making an impressive five caps for the British and Irish Lions, Leonard was part of the team that won the test series during their 1997 South African tour.
Most recently, Jason played a key role in England’s Grand Slam victory over Ireland at Lansdowne Road. He was also named captain for the game where England beat Wales 43-9 at the Millenium Stadium before entering the pitch as an extra-time substitute at the 2003 World Cup final. The then England coach, Clive Woodward, has since said that Leonard’s late entry to the game was the “key substitution which helped England to win the match.”
As well as passion for rugby, Jason has an admirably large philanthropy. He has donated to many charities and holds Annual Dinners which have raised over two million pounds since 2004. Leonard is also the Chairman of his own charity, The Atlas Foundation, which utilises rugby to empower young people who are less fortunate across the globe. In 2012, he received The Prince Obolensky Award in recognition of his Corinthian Spirit.
A versatile and highly motivating speaker, Jason Leonard is a popular choice for making appearances at business, schools and sports events. He inspires audiences across the UK to become more driven and determined as well as helping to improve leadership and teamwork skills.
