Da Kuleana – Working While Trying to Make It in Rugby
Failed to add items
Add to cart failed.
Add to wishlist failed.
Remove from wishlist failed.
Follow podcast failed
Unfollow podcast failed
-
Narrated by:
-
Written by:
About this listen
Starts at (0:10)
The hosts share personal experiences working labour-intensive and office jobs while pursuing rugby careers. Semisi recalls working at Fulton Hogan road company while playing for Auckland, while ofahelotu discusses everything from powder coating factories to loading meat containers.
Physical/Labour-Intensive Jobs:
• Recovery challenges when doing vigorous work before training
• Importance of discipline and routine to maintain work and rugby commitments
• Poor nutrition environments (energy drinks, pies, quick shop food)
• How physical work builds resilience but requires smarter preparation
Office/Retail Jobs:
• Benefits of schedule flexibility for training and recovery
• Mental fatigue vs physical fatigue challenges
• Diet discipline when sedentary (the coffee run temptation!)
• Communication with employers to balance expectations
Key Takeaways:
• Planning your week to cover all commitments
• Open dialogue with employers about rugby aspirations
• Understanding selection happens from first grade—punctuality matters
• Sacrifices required during peak development years (18-25)
Closing Question (17:53):
If offered your dream job requiring you to sacrifice rugby, what would you do? Both hosts agree: scratch that rugby itch first, the dream job can wait.
Outro
Send questions to talkingaboutacarpool@gmail.com for future episodes. Follow on TikTok and Instagram @talkingabouta.carpool for weekly results, tables, and bonus content. YouTube @talkingaboutacarpool . Also available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Audible.