Elton Flatley

Elton Flatley (born 7 May 1977 in Tamworth, New South Wales) is a former Australian international rugby union footballer. At his best position of Fly-half, Flatley was often able to dictate the game by kicking tactically or throwing simple passes in order to retain possession.

Flatley tended to play internationally at Rugbycentre. This is mainly due to Stephen Larkham holding the position of fly half. Indeed, he played at inside centre in the 2003 Rugby World Cup and looked as comfortable and composed as ever. The biggest test was his goal-kicking, which under high pressure was key in keeping Australia in the game until the very end. He played for the Queensland Reds.

Career

Flatley was educated at St. Joseph's Nudgee College where he was signed into the professional ranks of rugby union upon graduating.

Flatley made his debut for the Queensland Reds in 1996, the inaugural season of the Super 12, at the very young age of 18 against New Zealand side, Highlanders.

It was only a year later that Flatley would make his international debut for Australia, playing against England at Twickenham on November 15 in 1997 at the age of just 20. The game was a 15-all draw. Flatley was again in the team for the next game against Scotland, which Australia won.

In 2001 Flatley was a member of the Wallabies team that won the test series against the British and Irish Lions during the 2001 tour to Australia.

Flatley figured prominently in Australia's 2003 Rugby World Cup campaign, going right to the final against England. He finished the tournament as the third highest point score, scoring 100 points for Australia.

In April 2004, Flatley reached another milestone, becoming the youngest player ever to reach 100 caps for the Queensland Reds when he led the side out against the Sharks in Durban.

Flatley prematurely retired from all forms of rugby on 16 March 2006, on medical advice. Flatley suffered from continued blurred vision as a result of a number of concussions. Flatley thanked everyone he has been involved with in his rugby career, also saying that he is looking forward to spending a lot more time with his family and pursuing a career in business.

In 2006 he was a contestant on Australia's "Celebrity Survivor".

External links

* [http://www.redsrugby.com.au/reds/reds.rugby/page/40424/section/40198 Retirement announcement by Queensland Reds]