Q: Can you share a bit about your journey to professional rugby and what inspired you to pursue this career?
A: So I started quite young at four and a half years old. I went to high school in New Zealand and then I went to Wesley College. My first rugby year was in 2016 with the Counties Manukau and now I’m glad to be here and to play for the Gold.
Q: Who has been the most influential person in your rugby career and why?
A: Probably my mom before she passed away. She was my number one fan and she came to all of my games and showed huge support.
Q: What has your experience been like with NOLA Gold so far?
A: I joined the Gold last year and I think that it was a really good learning year because we got to know each other and play together. This season has been incredible so far and I think that it’s thanks to that.
Q: Are there any specific training routines or rituals that you follow to prepare for games?
A: As I am getting older I need to take more care of my body so I usually do some stretching then I loosen up with the trainers and after the game I take an ice bath to recover.
Q: How do you and your teammates stay motivated during tough times in the season?
A: For me it’s pretty easy. I have the opportunity to pursue something that I love doing. Also, I love to be able to show my kids that you can follow your dreams if you stick it up. I think that for the boys, it is the same because they have their families or friends to keep them motivated.
Q:What role do you see yourself playing in the team’s overall strategy for the playoffs?
A:You know, it’s just my role. I just want to be the best at doing my job. If I can do my own job and the other boys can do their job, then we’ll probably take it all the way.
Q: What is the atmosphere in the locker room and in practice before this upcoming playoff game?
A:Everyone’s excited. We’ve had 10 days off so everyone came in refreshed. I personally went back home to New Zealand, I refocused, refreshed and now I’m ready to go into the playoffs.
Q: Outside of rugby, what are some of your hobbies or interests?
A: I think keeping my kids busy! So I try to run them tired so they can go to bed at night. We sometimes go to the park or just play PlayStation with the boys.
Q: Do you have a message for the fans as we head into the rest of the season?
A: My message is just turn up and show up for the boys! We can feel the support and we’ve been hearing a lot of support. This could potentially be our last home playoff so if everyone can get down to supporting the boys, we would love that and home field advantage means that when momentum swings the fans can really help us out.
Q: Who’s the funniest teammate in the locker room?
A: Rodney (Iona) is more the joker but then I would say Ale (Lopeti). He has a strong personality and you just can’t help but laugh at a lot of the things he says.
