Rugby: Hard work and grit pay off for Bardoul

Johan Bardoul

The virtues of hard work, never giving up and taking your chances when offered epitomise what Bay of Plenty loose forward Johan Bardoul is all about.

After being rejected by Waikato and given a lifeline by the Steamers in 2013 the 27-year-old kept his desire alive to one day play Super Rugby.

This year he made his debut for the Chiefs and in seven games has made the transition from ITM Cup without a hitch, impressing head coach Dave Rennie with his work ethic and attitude.

Now all the hard work has paid off for Bardoul after he was re-signed by the Chiefs yesterday for two years.

The Chiefs also re-signed halfback Brad Weber and injured lock Michael Allardice for two years ahead of their clash with the Bulls in Rotorua on Friday night.

Rennie says they "are all good men with an excellent work ethic who have made big shifts in their game. We're rapt these men have committed long term."

Bardoul admits it was an emotional moment when Rennie told him the good news.

"I was really excited when Renns took me aside and gave me another two years. It nearly brought me to tears to be honest.

"I was really stoked. It was one of my goals that I set out at the start of the season so I am happy.

"What you put in is what you get out, I suppose. It was a great reward.

"I love the environment, the boys and the coaching. I am learning lots and I want to win a Super Rugby Championship. It is also great to have my future for the next two years sorted."

Friday's clash with the Bulls in Rotorua is one game he has targeted.

"It would be awesome to be in the team, as it is every week, but this would mean a lot to me if I was given the opportunity to go back to my roots.

"Hopefully we will get a good crowd there," Bardoul said.