COREY Domachowski is the form prop at Cardiff Blues, taking inspiration from his great grandfather's remarkable Auschwitz survival story.
The 24-year-old loosehead, who recently reached 50 appearances for the Blues, took a trip through history during lockdown to trace his heritage and found an uplifting story which he is using to help his rugby.
“My great grandfather was Polish – that's where my surname came from,” said Domachowski. “He was in Auschwitz and I've got a lot of information about him from my grandfather recently which I wasn't aware of.
“It was quite remarkable really, an eye opener. He escaped from Auschwitz and came over and that's when he met my great grandmother. His story has been a great inspiration for me and it's why I'm here today.”
The former Wales U20 Six Nations Grand Slam winner said: “I've been working hard over the last 18 months to better my game and it's been nice to have the opportunities.”
Domachowski became a father to daughter Mia last year which has given him new focus.
“Ever since my daughter was born it's given me a kick up the backside,” he said. “When I was in the academy I was one of those players who was just happy to be where I was.
“I probably could have worked a bit harder and I realised that when the baby came along. She gives me inspiration and that's why I do it. It's all for her.
“She's definitely been a factor behind my improvements over the last 18 months and it was great to reach 50 caps for the Blues recently.”
Domachowski, who made his Blues debut age 19, added: “I had opportunities when I was quite young for a prop and I've built on it since. I think that I'm getting better but there's still room for improvement and my aim is to keep getting better with each game.”
ALEX BYWATER
