BRFC 2013 Interview: Serena

Back: Serena Yeoh Yai Kuan

Blackswrugby (back in 2005): You must be quite the encyclopedia of drink mixes after all those years in the F&B business, what's in an Irish Car Bomb?

Serena: Simi Irish Car Bomb….that one I don't know lah, BRAIN HAMORRHAGE you want….Beer, with a shooter glass of Bailey's mixed in and grenadine…Try it….You will know what I mean….This one is the after effect of the car bomb …hahahahahah



Blackswrugby (back in 2005): Right so for the record, let's have it… were you always this lean-mean-fearless machine … really.

Serena: When I first started rugby, there were a lot of times I wanted give up. I felt that the game was so technical and I didn't understand what the coach was talking about. When it came to drills and fitness times, I was so unfit then (I was 10kg heavier then, I felt so heavy and my legs just couldn't move) that I always ended up being one of the last few or even the last...It was really discouraging.



Blackswrugby (back in 2005): Every training, I had a fear. A fear of not being able to keep up. But in every session, I will just keep trying my best and in my mind, I did a lot of POSITIVE self talk. Well, it was not overnight, there were many times on the field that I really felt like just giving up and stepping out from the drills but I was determined to carry on. 

Serena: However, there was one thing that kept me to continue with the sport was that I told myself since I have started it, I wouldn't give it up halfway. When I looked at my teammates around me...I was thinking to myself, how do these people make it? If they can, I also can. So other then starting to work on my fitness levels, I started reading more on how to improve on my own fitness and most importantly, I kept doing self-talk in my mind.

Before I knew it, with the hard work and efforts that I put in my own personal trainings, it paid off after months and gradually, you realize that you are no longer lagging behind. I was able to keep up. Also, you got to be patient with yourself. Sometimes, things don't just go the way you want overnight. It takes time to grow. Just like when you are growing a plant, you need to water it daily and feed it with fertilisers...with patience and care, you will reap what you sow.



Blackswrugby (back in 2005): You've got some real fancy footwork and body-bending moves to beat your defenders out there on the field, is that a product of a youth spent at tea dances or some serious one-on-one training?

Serena: Hahhaha….No way…I have never been to any of those tea dances before…but friends of mine that went taught me these moves…you know during younger days in school in NPCC, got to put up dance performances so we will try out all these different dance steps….and of course, watching Paula Abdul..hahahah…cold..cold..cold-hearted snake…hahahah..if some of you know this song….
Anyway, on the serious side, I started on agility (SAQ) once a week after last April for a period of time for once a week with the help of Adik, together with Sam and Wan, it definitely improved the footwork.



Blackswrugby (back in 2005): In a recent interview, one of your Rugby heroes Tana Umaga said, "You get old, that's just the way it is and you can't beat Father Time. Everyone's waiting for me to go"
Although here at Blacks we're all hoping you set the precedent for women playing rugby until a ripe old age, how much longer do you see yourself putting your body on that line?

Serena: Competitively, to be realistic, maybe another 4-5 years….Unrealistically….maybe another 10 years….I mean, internationally, the oldest player that we knew, she is a grandmother and still playing then in her late 40s is it? Or almost early 50s?
On a recreational level, I guess as long as I can…to continue to maintain fitness and stay healthy…



Blackswrugby (back in 2005): Gene Tong - Mentor, Husband, Friend, Coach - in which order?

Serena: Hahhahaha…this question very hard to answer lah….tricky…hahahahah…depends which situation. Guess when it's training times on the field…the order is, Coach, Mentor, Friend, Husband. But when it's out of training times, I would say, Husband, Friend, Mentor and then coach..(Actually…just, the first three I would say)



Blackswrugby (back in 2005): As a coach, are there differences from the times you were a rookie? Some of the younger players think the older folks are masochist masters and fitness sadists - we scream too much, are too critical. Are the younger ones getting soft or are the older players just plain Looney? 

Serena: There are definitely a lot of differences comparing when I first started as a rookie and the rookies now. I remembered that when I first started, my seniors were never so patient or willing to teach and share information with us, the rookies. The only thing they were capable to do was to shout and literally scream at your face during all the trainings. Hardly were there any seniors that will come and share with us what our mistakes were. You get screamed at and shouted at for not running fast, for not passing a proper pass and for not receiving or catching the pass. Basically there was no tolerance for mistakes.



Blackswrugby (back in 2005): During every training, there were times when your tears were at the brink of your eyes, but you just had to control it and keep your mouth shut and bite your tongue and carry on. To learn to play the game was very much on your own, basically, we learnt it through the whistles from the referees during the breakdown of games. The rookies then, we never questioned, we never gave attitude, we wanted to prove to the seniors that we could do it. 

Serena: The younger ones these days are getting softer…no offense to you all young ones out there….a lot of times when criticisms are given, not trying to be personal but however helping you all to improve, the reaction that we get in return is Being Defensive. Sometimes, they become loads of excuses….

Older folks masochist masters and fitness sadists?…I don't think so….I just know that the seniors we all know what we want to achieve as a whole and as individuals, but the younger ones out there, do you know what you want to achieve? Or you all are doing it just because you have to do it? Do it for a reason and ask yourself what it is….

This is something I must definitely say, the young ones are really having an easy time in terms of trainings compared to us in the past…Fitness wise, hmmm….no way like how we did it in the past…An advice to the young ones…sometimes just do it…don't have to talk too much…Action speaks louder than words. Also, do it with a goal….don't do it blindly….



Blackswrugby (back in 2005): Back to your battered body, is it really all IN THE MIND? Pray tell, how does one become Wonder Woman?

Serena: Sustaining injuries while playing is inevitable. It is important to learn how to manage injuries and be positive about it. I have been injured quite a few times, through my own experience, of course, it was not easy, seeing your teammates training and you can't join them...it can be very depressive... First thing that comes into my head, shucks...cannot play...second thing that comes to my mind....die lah, cannot train means PUT ON WEIGHT...FAT...hahahha.

But nevertheless, you just have to get over fast and stay positive. Positive self talk...approach your treatments and rehab positive and believe and have faith that you will come back even stronger and better....you will be amazed at how fast you will recover. It's all in the state of mind...



Blackswrugby (back in 2005): Do you have any pre-match secret ritual we should know about, because you sure look like you could eat a couple of opposition players when the whistle goes.

Serena: Actually, nothing at all….all I know is that I want to play to my best in the game and just keep my focus in it. But there is definitely one thing before I start…I will cough like I am going to die….if some of you know what I mean…Important thing, during the game, don't be so bothered with what is going to happen later after game…it is during every minute of the game that matters more than anything….



Blackswrugby (back in 2005): Having been a pioneer blacks player starting from 0 to 7s to 15s with the club, would you say there was a turning point for Blacks or have we been steadily heading the right direction?

Serena: The turning point for the club…I feel it is the commitment from both Gene and Chongfu that have brought the girls this far when they started coming in to the women's side to help (this probably happened somewhere mid of 98)…with their commitment to the gals and that ultimately got the girls committed to the trainings and of course, being down for trainings had bonded the club closer and you know, it's the chain effect…as with all these factors…we trained hard together, going overseas for games and tournaments…..Our achievements were not overnight but definitely a lot of hard work and efforts put in…And I would say that we are steadily heading towards the direction that we have set out to do.



Blackswrugby (back in 2005): There's an on going debate about who has the most powerful fart, (1) Ennie (2) Eunice and (3) yourself. Who would u say could eliminate the enemy with a single blast?

Serena: This definitely got to be ENNIE TOH…Eunice and me both got no fight with her…Even if we combined our weapon, Ennie's still the Lethal Weapon…



Blackswrugby (back in 2005): Really? Because the long standing rumour is that your audible farts are actually fuelled jets that give you the power to make those line-breaking runs. Most of our girls are just dying to pry u open to see what maketh this woman.
So here's one of the questions that best summarizes what we got from the floor:

Serena: "It must have been helluva journey from when you started to where you are today - hard-running, mentally-strong, and a truly inspirational player. Through all the sweaty, muddy years of sheer hard work and aching muscles, the Serena we see today is a super-hero figure. What advice do you have for the less experienced players who are aspiring towards playing at national level (but not quite there yet), in terms of:

a) building mental strength (to keep going when you are absolutely buggered on the field);
Building mental strength, alot comes from within. The key is DETERMINATION, to work towards what you really want. Set your own personal goals in rugby, and work towards it. Break down your goals to smaller goals (process goals) so that you will eventually achieve what you have set yourself out to do. Give it a time frame. When you start seeing yourself growing through the goals that you have set, your mindset will be more positive and of course, it will enhance your mental strength.

On a personal level, when we used to go through those tough runs, it was crazy. But in my mind, as I was doing those runs, one thing I tell myself is that, I want to compete with myself. I want to break that personal benchmark that I have set. I don't bother with people running by my side, though at times, there will bound to be competition which is healthy. Other than that, I always put myself to the test and challenged myself to a higher level.

When things go tougher, tell yourself, it is a good thing. Take it as a positive challenge. Nothing is smooth sailing in whatever you do. I would say, nothing in life be it in any areas are will turn out the way you want. Sometimes, there are other external factors that are beyond our control. That's when you have to learn to over come the obstacles. You've got to believe in yourself and most importantly, that the obstacles which come our way is a good thing. Then you will learn how to handle it and to make you a stronger person physically and mentally.


b) how to stay positive when the going gets tough (e.g. not improving at a desired rate, injuries, etc...)?

One thing you have to start asking yourself, how long have you been doing it? Something must have gone wrong somewhere that improvement is slow. How about your recovery time? Do you rest properly and eat proper...these are also factors that will contribute to our performance. Our bodies get bored working on the same program over and over again. They need changes too....just like us...access your own training programs and ask yourself, what is the area that there is no improvement or not much improvement....then look at different ways to solve your problem. Know your strengths and weakness...maximize your strengths and build your weakness, turn your weakness into strength.

Approach your challenges positively, even if things don't go your way and when it gets tougher, don't think is something bad or negative. Things happen for a reason. Most importantly, self belief and work towards seeing it from a positive way. Success is not overnight but with hard work and efforts put in, you see the results.

BRFC 2013 Interview: Yin

BRFC Forward: Yin Mei Jacquline June Lenden-Hitchcock

Blackswrugby: When did you first pick up rugby?

Yin:  I picked it up about six years ago in 2007 while I was in NIE and very bored with myself. 

Blackswrugby: How long have you been playing the sport?  

Yin: Unfortunately, I've only actually played for essentially three years since I came in at the start of season when I first joined and couldn't play, and I took a three-year hiatus to do theatre. I've only just started playing again!

Blackswrugby: How did you get introduced to rugby? 

Yin: Pris! She was my NIE English classmate and I was wondering how come this girl was perennially covered in scratches and bruises. 

Blackswrugby: What position do you play and what is your dream position? 

Yin: I play loose head but I am dying to be a jumper. I am working my way towards that. Umm, Bala, Tao, take note please. Maybe you guys could do a little more gym work. Hur.

Blackswrugby: When was your most memorable rugby moment? 

Yin: The day I discovered (finally) how I clear a ruck when I ran and packed in and the whole pile just flew forward! It was a moment of elucidation and power. 

Blackswrugby: We know you're a teacher, do your students/colleagues know you play rugby? What is their take on it? 

Yin: Hur. Actually no one cares. I think because I'm generally chor loh and weird and involved in 10, 000 other things that everyone expects me to be involved in something random. I do, however, share my rugby experiences in my drama class and the lessons learnt there that are applicable to my drama girls. 

Blackswrugyby: Name one thing you love and one thing you hate about rugby? 

Yin: I think what I love most is the fact that it constantly pushes me to the limits of my body, and then the wonderful discovery that I can go further. That feeling of challenge and obstacle, and then the joy of success at overcoming it. 

I hate grass. It gives me awful, awful rash. 

Blackswrugby: Describe your pre-game rituals.

Yin: Hydrate like mad. Freak out. And then hydrate someone. 

Blackswrugby: If you never picked up rugby, what would you be doing? 

Yin: Tap dancing. Or airal cloth dancing. Or gymnastics. Basically anything that would require me to use my body in a physicalised manner. Or I might go back to performing. 

Blackswrugby: Describe yourself in one word.

Yin: Cat. 

BRFC 2013 Interview: Juan

BRFC Back: Tan Hui Juan

Blackswrugby (back in 2005): How did you chance on the fine game of rugby?

Juan: I started with Singa Rugby in Primary 4 in 1997, while I was at Chong Boon Primary. My school introduced it as a Co-curricular Activity (CCA). I was chosen to play by my teachers to play for the school - Actually I think it was pure chance that I took it up as I was among the last to be selected.
My first impression of rugby...very weird (oval shaped ball), and that we had to pass backwards.
We had to play against older players (primary 5-6 players) when we first went for competition. The first year was more for experience and exposure. However, we were the champs for 1998 and 1999 - yeah! Haha (",) But nowadays, primary schools don't play Singa Rugby anymore.

I joined Blacks when my ex-coach Carmel Seeto, who was a former Blacks player, brought my friends and I for Blacks recruitment in 2000…that was my first experience and encounter with contact and touch, which were totally new things to me. Although my basics were there, i.e. hands. etc., the rules were totally different and I had to start from scratch.

Actually, i wanted to leave at one point in time. Because the environment was new, I was youngest in the club, and since my friends who came for the recruitment left, I was unfamiliar with everyone...Travelling from where I lived was also a problem, because it was tiring.
Besides rugby, I was also involved in my school's Chinese dance club. I also took up ballet in community centres for 2 years. I have a grade 3 and 4 certificate from the Royal Academy for that. I quite flexible leh, don't play play.

Whether dance has helped me with rugby...well, there are usually practices and rehearsals before the performance. As for rugby- you have to go through the moves, scrums and line-outs etc. Practice makes perfect in both.

However, in rugby, we play it there and then. In a sense that we can't predict what will happen exactly in a game, situations simply happen and you gotta react to it accordingly. There's no replay. Unlike dance where there's a specific step and rhythm you have to follow. Besides, rugby is very addictive, you can never get enough it. It's not so much of individual flare, but about teamwork, playing smart and thinking on your feet.



Blackswrugby (back in 2005): If your had your way would rugby balls be pink? 

Juan: PINK?? Did I hear wrongly?? I have to make this clear, pink is not my favourite colour. A lot of you are mistaken. It's wrong! It's a myth! It's not!
I don't know how it started la - all this association with pink. I now try to avoid pink stuff. I'm okay with every colour, as long as the item looks good. It's really bo pian, not that I purposely chose pink. It's really coincidence.



Blackswrugby (back in 2005): People have described you as an 18 year old girl with the mind of one much older, who is wise in the ways of the world, and incredibly street-smart. All of which are amazing qualities for someone your age. 
How old do you feel? 

Juan: I am old... yes and no. Since joining Blacks, my life has changed tremendously, and I've learnt many things along the way. Like a pivot point...

Yes in that I've been exposed to ..."elderly" people. HAHA! I think like someone slightly older than me. The environment has forced me to grow up, and I've learnt how to communicate with them. Must have a common topic to talk about what, besides rugby.

Responsibility - Blacks isn't like a CCA where you are required to satisfy attendance requirements. You have to learn to commit and no one's going to force you down for training. I used to feel obliged to play and perform, but every since my ankle injury, it's not just about going down every Sunday anymore. I realized that I love the game and have the passion for it. I never used to have goals, but now I do.
Leadership, independence and initiative - In a club, everyone's involved. We can't just rely on a captain or a coach to get things moving and done. Everyone has to play a part. Simple things like leading the warmup and getting water, it's simply initiative.

Nobody can afford to spoonfeed you here. You've got to learn to speak up for yourself. If you need help, you have to ask for it. Although the seniors are willing to teach and help you, you can't always rely on them to notice your weak points. Whatever you want to know, you have to ask. It takes two hands to clap.

All this has helped me in life too, because now that I'm in polytechnic, there's a need to be independent.
Blacks has definitely forced me to grow up faster, and I've learnt things that cannot be found in text books. I can proudly say that my teenage years have been meaningful. I do think about what I would be doing now if I didn't play rugby. Maybe hanging around with my friends in orchard road every Sunday?? I still do some typical teenage things, like watching movies, going to arcades, but not as often as my friends. Because I have commitments, training and such, I need to prioritise more.

But then I can be quite kiddish at times... I have a fetish for "Cutesy" stuff hahaha!
In fact, the seniors are like big sisters to me la. I've had a lot of first times with the club. First tour to Perth , first time in a pub and drinking, first time I've seen so many people squashed into a chalet during the boot camp muahahaha. And many many more...
I used to be a very quiet person, fyi, I never used to speak up or talk much. It was this environment that has helped to mould my character.



Blackswrugby (back in 2005): Tell us about the upcoming Great Zouk Inauguration. A Lian institution?

Juan: It's an agreement made with EUNICE TAY! The lian bu (",) She promised to take me there when I turn 18. That was 4 years ago, and she still remembers! Good memory hahaa. It's four months away, and I'm looking forward to it!



Blackswrugby (back in 2005): You are seen quite often before training, slathering yourself generously with SPF 100 sun-block. Would you say that there are conflicting issues between your quest for two extremities i.e. fairer skin and rugby enlightenment?

Juan: UVA is responsible for premature ageing and the development of skin cancer. UVB is the primary cause of burning and blistering. UVC is the most dangerous to our skin but is filtered by the ozone layer and does not reach the Earth’s surface.

This is from a magazine. They were promoting sunblock products. Right now I’m using with UVA protection. It’s much better. See it’s responsible for premature aging. Don’t wanna look like 30 when I reach 20? [Edit: Juan turns 26 this September] Actually, at most I use 50-plus ones. Now I’m using SPF 40 with UVA and UVB, double protection! It’s not that I’m vain, its necessary. They always say that I’m vain…dunno why leh. Oh, and I used to use Hazeline snow! I brought it to Perth muahahaha. Its very cooling if you keep it in the fridge and apply it on your face. BTW, I don’t use it now, I stopped 3 years ago.



Blackswrugby (back in 2005): What was your most embarrassing moment?

Juan: My shorts slit a few inches during game… luckily got wear tights. Jane said that maybe my backside grew bigger la, haha.



Blackswrugby (back in 2005): An unnamed source tells us that you’re the only person bold enough to tell Chongfu off when he misses his man on field. How dare you?

Juan: Why ah? Why am I so bold. Chongfu. I think it was because he missed his man. I don’t remember why. Because I was just beside him, and I was his teammate. Are you sure I’m the only person? Are you saying that Chongfu cannot be scolded? I just want to ask, why don’t people scold him? Maybe it’s because he can’t be bothered to run after the person. Haha



Blackswrugby (back in 2005): We often hear of young athletes who burn out early in their careers, more often than not, due to pressure and over-exertion. Do you face such problems? What has kept you going all these years?

Juan: Having to handle studies, rugby and other commitments can be hard at times. Especially when the exam and tournament period clash.

Sometimes it’s hard, because when I tell myself that I have to study, I always end up going for training. Maybe it’s because I feel bad about missing training, because it’s a team game afterall, and my not going down might affect our team’s moves and calls.

It’s also sort of like my motivation, to finish a number of chapters before I allow myself to go for trainings. These young athletes. If you really love and have the passion for something, you won’t get sick of the sport. Find something to renew your passion every now and then. Set goals and decide on how to make things different. It’s up to you to make things exciting.

I also have problems with fitness drills, where you have to run…and I don’t like running. And sometimes the seniors say things like “You’re young, you should be faster!” It’s not true. I have my own difficulties too. But it’s up to you to handle the pressure; there are both negative and positive ones. It’s up to you to do it properly.

I try to set realistic goals. I know that I’m not fast, but I try to contribute to the team in my own ways. I know the seniors have certain expectations of me. And sometimes I feel pressured playing with them. Because they’re good and to be able to keep up with them, you’ve got to improve. You can’t rest and you can’t be contented. Rugby doesn’t involve just good hands alone. There are a lot of other things, and there’s no limited to what you can do.



Blackswrugby (back in 2005): We heard that in 2003, after laying off training for so long, you cried while doing a circuit.

Juan: Who told you this ah?? Seriously, I don't think I cried leh. I was just tired, and since I've laid off it for so long maybe I sounded like I was crying. And you know la, after not doing for so long, the circuits, dunno what kind we have "awesome, super, greatest. Killer"

Blackswrugby (back in 2005): With many more rugby-playing years ahead of you, where do you see yourself in a half-decade's time?

Juan: I hope to be on par if not better than the seniors. Well see how it goes. It's hard to say what can happen in 5 years. It's very unpredictable.



Blackswrugby (back in 2005): Any advice to wee ruggers out there?

Juan: As a student, your first priority is to study. Don't neglect it just for rugby's sake. Learn to organize time. Show your parents that you can be responsible and can prioritise. That way, they would be more supportive of what you do.
I was having my Secondary 2 streaming examinations the year Blacks went to Perth. So I made a deal with them… their permission to go in exchange for my getting into the science stream (yea, my first trip with blacks).

Also, I've learnt to be flexible when reacting to situations... you must think on the spot to play this game well. Rugby's a mind game, despite the common belief that it's only a physical one.
Once a mistake is made during game, instead of dwelling on it, just play on and tell yourself not to commit the same mistake. Take every game as a learning experience. Don't be afraid of making mistakes. That's how we learn and of course, after the game, reflect on what went wrong, how and why did it happen, and what you must be improve on.


Blackswrugby (back in 2005): Any heroes? 

Juan: No heroes in particular. but I really admire the way the seniors train. And as for those in the national team, I think they really do deserve it, after all the hard work. The majority weren't overnight successes.

P.S : I would like to take this opportunity to thank the seniors ( a bunch of sporty and likeable people) for the amazing experience that I have had for the past few years in Blacks... they are the ones who make things happen... I think the most memorable part is my first trip with Blacks was in 2001, thanks for bringing me, this xiao mei mei up to perth... I really enjoyed the trip, it was also an eye opener for me... the 1.5 week stay has definitely bonded us, and allowed me to know them better.

"I believe that I have been through more than most other 17 year olds."
Being in Blacks for the past few years has definitely made my life more meaningful.

BRFC 2013 Interview: Vanessa

BRFC Forward: Vanessa Chang

Blackswrugby: How did you get introduced to rugby?

Van: I was unable to reject my enthusiastic friend (SRC's Angel Tan) and I found myself at a PLAY clinic in 2008 (I think). After which Chongs contacted me and asked if I would like to play for Blacks Babies (what a name) for the under 21 category for midnight 7s so here I am since then. When I started with Blacks in 2008 I reserved commitment- I told the girls it was due to Uni commitments but really it was because I had no friends and Leel kept screaming at me because I kept dropping the ball (HAHA).


Whats positions do you normally play?

Van: I'm a hooker now ;) but when I started I used to play prop as well which was the position that earned me in a spot in the national team in the first place.



Blackswrugby: Whats your take on Womens Rugby?


Van: Playing with heart is the best and the key driving force when it comes to playing this sport. Passion and also a slightly  masochistic attitude towards pain. I believe that women's rugby is like a mettle detector. How we behave on the field is so reflective of how we behave in life in so many ways- if we have the grit or tenacity for great things. Also that most people are somehow predisposed towards drama.



Blackswrugby: What is your most memorable moments in Blacks? (i know there are many, just list a few)

Van: I would say most trips are pretty good memory worthy events- especially the flies invested Perth trip in 2011 and the frosty Hongkong trip in 2010 (can't remember the year whoops).
But the one defining local memory was when we lost the nwr 2 years back and trooped of to to newton for some tiger beers. I think I'll remember everything unspoken that night for a long time to come.



Blackswrugby: What's the best thing that happened to you in Blacks?

Van: Cliched enough, the best thing about rugby is the people you meet, the bonds you forge and the camaraderie. Its pretty amazing to meet so many people in Blacks who are so genuine.  



Blackswrugby: What do you feel is the toughest thing about Rugby?

Van: The toughest bit about rugby is to lose a teammate to injury. Its hard to see someone who play their soul out and has always got your back have to go through the tough phrase of recovery and you not being able to do much.

Oh but watching them bounce back harder is also one of the biggest encouragement for the team. :)



Blackswrugby: Any moments that you felt like giving up? What made you press on?

Van: I say "I need to quit rugby" on a yearly basis every time a 7s season comes around. Haha. But love for the sport and for the club keeps me around (*cues aww*).



Blackswrugby: Own up. what's the most embarrassing moment that happened to you during a game?

Van: Nothing much honestly. Sure I've stood on the opponent's side during kick off & lineouts a couple of times, but thats normal right?



Blackswrugby: What your pre-game ritual? any secrets?

Van: Judge away- I pray that the first high ball doesn't come my way.



Blackswrugby: How do you manage Rugby and beautiful fingernails? any tips?

Van: Erm..rugby and nail polish typically don't coexist but having ruined fingernails after every training is perfect excuse to slap on so fresh colour so yay!



Blackswrugby: Does training days have an impact on your a-bag-a-day feat?

Van:HMMM. Well as many of you may know I have a small bag collection. On rugby days (most days) I have to factor in the size of my bag when selecting them from my bag 'closet' which means I can't always carry the cuter, smaller ones.



Blackswrugby: What's your advice for the rookies in Blacks?

Van: Stick around. Soon you'll start relishing all aspects of the game and learn that theres so much things worth learning and so much satisfaction involved. If you hang out long enough, people will stop screaming at you (and you will start screaming) and you will know people that can shape your life (positively I hope) and you'll be proud to call friends & teammates.

Oh and play with heart. :)



Blackswrugby: If theres one thing that you could do to change the world, what is it?

Van: I would make hot dogs a healthy food.

in construction! wait up!