Sidebar- Rugby World Magazine- 'Sidelines'

Article written for Rugby World Magazine, London (October 2006):


Welsh rugby legend Geoff Wheel has gone from shifting pianos on a rugby field to playing pianos at his church, writes Graham Reid.

Wheel played 32 times for Wales and helped them win two Grand Slams and four Triple Crowns whilst plying his club trade with Swansea, whom he later coached.

Nowadays, though, the Swansea-based Wheel, 55, is a regular organist at three local churches, Kilvey, St Illtyd's and Fabian Bay- and he's finding it a world away from the bruising game that he used to play for Wales from 1974 to 1982.

"I've been playing the organ for about five years," says the ex-lock, "I've played the accordion, banjo and guitar, so I know a bit about music. I go to church because of my faith, and because we were short of an organist, I ended up doing the job."

Wheel has reached grade four standard on the organ, and is studying hard for grade five. "It's hard going, I think I've taken a few too many knocks playing rugby!"

Wheel's voluntary work around the local area- which includes a role as deputy chairman on the governor's board at Danygraig Primary School- earned him a community award earlier this year.

Brian Salmon, chairman of the Dockers Club, says: "As well as playing the organ, he organises charity functions at the club in aid of the church roof. He's excellent and you couldn't wish to meet a nicer guy."

Wheel is optimistic about Welsh rugby's future. "We did well in Argentina. Every team is looking to develop young players and Wales is the same. It's good to see Swansea boys involved, such as Richard Hibbard and Alun Wyn Jones."