Where did it all start for you?

My journey with the Lions started at the University of Johannesburg. I would often assist at the Lions for a bit of experience. In 2015 I received a fulltime opportunity as the Junior Strength and Conditioning coach working with the junior teams. I now fulfill the role of Head of Athletic Performance.

Your role as Head of Athletic Performance in a nutshell…

My role entails running the entire athletic performance setup for the junior and senior teams at the Lions. This means taking care of on and off field fitness as well as provide guidance on gym programs.

How would describe a high-performance rugby athlete?

For us it means taking all aspects of a rugby player and ultimately improving it- He’s physical work on the field during training and match day, nutrition, recovery, rehabilitation etc. Packaging all of those factors aimed towards producing a better athlete.

What does it take to be a professional rugby player?

Hard work! Suffice to say that you need to be a special human being. I don’t think people out there realise how hard rugby players train behind the scenes to get them to full fitness and ready for game day. Leading up to a season is something called a pre-season where a decent aerobic base is set and then gradually progress to an anaerobic and a high-speed base. We then move onto in-season where the focus will be between on and off weeks with a combination of gym work ahead of match day.

Your hobbies outside rugby?

When I’m with not the team, I really enjoy spending time with my wife and son. On non-playing weekends we’ll often go out and enjoy a nice breakfast. My wife and I do quite a bit cycling as well. I also enjoy a bit of bass fishing from time to time.