For Jarvis Orr, rugby is a huge part of his life.
However, the NSW Waratahs U18 openside flanker gets motivation and inspiration from a wide range of interests, activities, and people in his life.
Orr Jarvis has been immersed in the sport of rugby union since the age of four, thanks to the influence of his rugby-loving father.
As he has grown up, his journey from the Central Coast to Sydney’s elite pathways has been shaped by hard work, resilience, and an unwavering love for the game.
Growing up on the Central Coast, Orr’s introduction to rugby came early.
"Dad’s just a huge rugby person, and he got me into it at four years old," he says.
"It all came from his real passion for the game, and his influence gave me a love for rugby straight away."
His father, a seasoned coach, played a significant role in shaping Orr’s approach to Rugby.
"He coached a couple of my youth teams—our Central Coast rep team for U15s and then my Eastwood team in U16s and U17s.
“He’s never pushed me too hard, but he’s always encouraged me enough to reach my limits while keeping my love for the game alive.
“Over the years, he has also taught me a lot about rugby’s history, which is something I’ve grown to appreciate and take a real interest in."
Orr’s Jarvis’ rugby journey through club, school, and representative teams is a true testament to his adaptability, dedication, and passion.
He started playing for Woy Woy before moving to Avoca for five years and then spending two seasons at Terrigal.
"When we moved to Sydney, Dad coached an Eastwood team, so I played there for a year as well,” Orr said.
His school rugby career took off at Knox Grammar, where he played from Year 7.
His progression through representative pathways led him to the Waratahs U18 squad.
"It wasn’t always a straight path, though," he recalls.
"I was lucky enough to play for NSW in U15s in the Gen Blue, and from there, I knew representative rugby was where I wanted to be.
“Since then, I played for the Tahs Academy vs the Queensland Reds and some sevens fixtures."
However, his momentum through the NSW Waratahs Tahs pathway hit a major setback in 2023 when he suffered an ACL injury while playing rugby sevens.
"It happened in February, and I missed the entire U18 season,” Orr said.
“I was in the squad but couldn’t play. That was tough.
“Knowing that I was given an opportunity to represent the state playing above my age group was a huge honour, but not being able to step out on the field was a hard thing to accept."
Recovering from his ACL injury was one of the biggest challenges of Orr’s young career.
"It was rough. I put on some weight and wasn’t running as much," he admits with a laugh.
"But over my time off, it just made me further realise the love I had for the game and the desire I had to bounce back."
Orr’s return to the field was marked by a special moment.
"My first game back was a CAS rugby fixture against Cranbrook in a historic match. We won 31-10, so it was a great one to come back for."
Despite missing the U18 season, Orr’s resilience saw him get a shot at an Australian trial, leading to an opportunity with the national sevens team.
"I wasn’t even picked for NSW Schools, but then I went straight to the Australian trial and ended up playing for Australian Sevens.
“It was an unusual path, but it all worked out."
As an openside flanker, Orr prides himself on his work ethic and ability to influence the game.
"I definitely like to lead by action. I’ve got a big work ethic, and I love getting stuck into the rucks, winning pilfers, and running strong support lines,” Orr said.
“But I’ve got a lot to work on, and I’m always looking to improve."
Orr’s competitive nature has been present since childhood, often driven by sibling rivalry.
"My brother Archie is two years older than me, and I always remember him being quicker. I just kept competing against him, trying to be better,” he said.
Orr considers himself fortunate to have the support of his school helping him balance school rugby and high-level representative commitments.
"At Knox, they help me with workload management. I’ve got people telling me when not to train and helping me stay on top of my commitments,” he said.
“It’s been important to get the little things right, especially at school sessions." Away from rugby, Orr Jarvis enjoys creative activities.
"I play a bit of guitar. I was in a school band for a while, which people might not expect,” he said.
“I also like reading. I’m reading Ikigai right now, which is all about mental strength." Family and downtime are also important to Orr.
"We just got a new dog, so I’ve been walking him a lot,” he said.
“I also hang out with my mates, and whenever I can, I go back to the Central Coast, even though we live on the Northern Beaches now."
Orr has clear ambitions but remains grounded.
"I want to be in rugby as much as I can,” he said.
“Hopefully, that means coming through the Waratahs system, because I’ve always been here. But right now, I’m just taking it step by step."
Orr’s journey has already taken unexpected twists, from injuries to surprise selections.
His relentless work ethic, passion for the game, and enjoyment of the sport continue to drive him forward.
The NSW Waratahs U18s play the Queensland Reds U18s at Ballymore Stadium in Brisbane on Sunday at 1.15pm (AEDT). The NSW Waratahs U20s v Queensland Reds U20s then play at 3.15pm (AEDT). Both games will be streamed live on rugby.com.au
