Oli Mathis is one of the most talented young players in the country. The Hamilton Boys star produced some of the most iconic NZ Schools performances we’ve ever seen. Whether he’s been playing loose forward or on the wing, the 20-year-old has been unstoppable playing for Waikato, the All Blacks 7’s side & the NZ U20s.

In this episode, we chat about:

• What it was like growing up in Waihi on the farm
• Why he moved to Hamilton Boys and his time in the First XV
• We talk about those incredible NZ Schools performances and what he felt set him apart as a schoolboy
• Why he turned down the Crusaders Academy to stay in the Chiefs region
• His experiences with Waikato, Chiefs wider squad, All Blacks 7s and NZ U20s
• The frustration of missing the U20 World Cup Final through injury
• Life as a hybrid forward/wing and where he sees his best position
• Where he see’s his future in the game
• And heaps more

As you’ll hear Oli is a passionate rugby man, he always has been! And then when he’s not on the field, he is up on the hills hunting in true kiwi style. This is an awesome insight into someone with a huge future ahead of him, a special talent and one of the great lads.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jamison Gibson Park has gone on to be without a doubt one of the best 9s in world rugby! He's one of my favourite players to watch the way he plays with speed and controls the tempo of games while always nailing the basics. He was also one of my favourite team mates to play with because he was just a massive lad. 4 years ago this episode was recorded where he had just debuted for Ireland so it's pretty cool to hear some of the conversations we had around his future plans to see how far he has exceeded them!

Some other parts that stood out for me in this episode...

Hearing about the rural upbringing Jamison had on Great Barrier Island.

How he handled missing out on the NZ 20's even though many felt he should've been in there.

How he was shafted by the Blues.

Winning the Super Rugby with the Hurricanes, starting as a wider squad member.

Why he left NZ.

How he had found it over in Ireland & with Leinster.

And heaps more!

As you'll hear, Jammo is a massive lad and it's been so cool seeing him starring at RWC's with Ireland and now on the Lions tour. He is one of the greats!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Daniel Bell might not be a recognisable name for you all, but as soon as you hear that voice – you will definitely recognise the voice. The man widely regarded for having the greatest larynx in the country which we have heard delivering some of the great moments in Heartland Rugby! Donny Bell has an infectious love for the game and brings the fizz like no other.

In this episode, we chat about:

•Why he always wanted to be a commentator as a kid

•Commentating with some of his childhood hero’s including Chainsaw Laney

•His commentary impersonations of almost every commentator in the game (including the South African special!)

•An awesome insight into what goes on behind the mic

•Plenty of great yarns from travelling around the country

And heaps more!

This is a very entertaining episode with a great insight into what goes on behind the mic, Donny brings impressive energy to this one and I voice I could listen to all day.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.