Professional rugby and studies: Joseph Laget's successful gamble
At 25, this first-year student pursuing a DNO (National Diploma in Oenology) in Montpellier leads a triple life: he’s a professional rugby player in Pro D2, a student, and the new father of a one-month-old daughter. A portrait of a man who refuses to choose between his passions.
A carefully crafted balance between outdoor spaces and courtyards
He’s been on a professional contract since 2018, and rugby is his main career, but he’s never given up on his studies: “I spread out my years of study so I could play rugby. I made some choices, but I didn’t give anything up.”
His schedule is a real balancing act: training from Sunday through Tuesday, classes in Montpellier as needed, and traveling from Thursday through Friday for games. In between all that, he juggles his responsibilities as a new dad, taking care of his one-month-old daughter and spending time with his family.
The university makes this easier: “When I compare myself to other typical students, I get a lot of support: the professors help me with classes I miss and with switching groups. Honestly, I always get a lot of help from the university.”
From Marseille to Pro D2
It all started by chance: “At first, I was a bit chubby and short; I wanted to play sports to burn off some energy, and I ended up playing rugby by chance at a club near my home in Marseille.” His talent quickly became apparent, leading to call-ups to the national team and eventually to Provence Rugby.
His most memorable moment? “My first professional game in 2018. When you’ve watched the greats play so often and then find yourself in their shoes, it’s a wonderful memory.” Now in Pro D2, the goal is clear: to return to the Top 14 through the playoffs.
A well-thought-out career plan
Aware of the realities of professional sports, he’s already thinking about life after rugby: “Rugby doesn’t last forever. If you get injured, it can all come to an end overnight. You have to be realistic.”
After earning a science track high school diploma, a bachelor’s degree in chemistry, and a bachelor’s degree in wine business, he is now pursuing a degree in oenology. “My second passion is combining wine with chemistry. When my rugby career ends, I’ll switch to that right away.”
This synergy works to his advantage: “Contrary to the stereotype of the rugby player as a bit of a dimwit, there’s a lot to analyze in rugby. School helps you organize your thoughts, and conversely, the discipline of the sport helps with your studies. Even with less time, you make better use of it.”
His advice to students? “I don’t think there’s really a choice to be made. The university is there to help; there are plenty of options available. Even though I train every day, I’m managing to pursue a master’s degree. It’s possible!”