All Black Keven Mealamu talks in Whangārei about what it takes to succeed in rugby

Keven Mealamu speaking at the Viking Lounge. Photo / Tania Whyte

Rugby fans and administrators in Whangārei got some useful tips from All Black great Keven Mealamu about what it takes to succeed at all levels of the oval ball game.

The veteran hooker gave a talk to about 50 people at the Northland Events' Centre this week about his experiences at all levels of the game, the values that drove his success, and why he was proud of rugby.

Mealamu is part of an advocacy group consisting of six others put together by the New Zealand Rugby Union to talk to people involved with the game about, among other things, behaviour on and off the field and gender equality, and to ensure people from all walks of life felt comfortable being part of the rugby community.

"For someone lucky enough to play at the highest level, it's good to be able to share the understanding of the game and to make sure rugby welcomes everyone no matter who you are and where you live," he said.

Keven Mealamu speaking at the Viking Lounge. Photo / Tania Whyte

As an example, he said he was able to play comfortably alongside Sonny Bill Williams who was a practising Muslim and among some of his best friends who did not play for the Blues franchise he was a part of including former ABs Charlie Faumuina, Andrew Hore and Tony Woodcock.

"Gender equality and women being team leaders in rugby is also a big focus. They also bring mana to the sport whenever they play. I just want to hear from people what some of their challenges are what are some of the things we can do better in rugby circles,"
Mealamu said.

He explained to the crowd there were four pillars to the game— be welcoming, be your best, be passionate and fair play.