LIFE WITH THE HOGS

Q

In your role at Helensvale, how does Australian grassroots rugby compare to New Zealand?

A

I’m from a small city back in New Zealand called Gisborne and what I am seeing here is probably similar to what the club rugby is like back home. Some guys don’t turn up to training on a Tuesday or even a Thursday but everyone rocks up on a Saturday and gets stuck in. It is really grassroots rugby and among the competition here, you certainly have some pretty good footballers running around.

We would all like to see a stronger competition, especially after the result we had last weekend, it was a mismatch, but we know that this week (against leaders Colleges) is different.

Q

So is it fair to say you are enjoying your time at the Hogs working with coach Tonga Lea’aetoa?

A

Absolutely. Not really knowing too many people here on the Coast in the rugby arena, it was great to make a few connections there. The Hogs have certainly got a strong club with big numbers through the junior grades and in women’s rugby so that’s great as well.

Q

Is doing more coaching a path you are thinking of exploring at all?

A

I’m open to doing a lot more with coaching and moving on to other opportunities if they come along but right now, it works fine just being involved locally. I have a young family, we live just down the road, so everything is good for now.