Keven Mealamu is the Nicest Guy in Rugby! Legendary All Black on Playing with Jonah, Richie & Cully
Nov 24, 2024
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Keven Mealamu, a legendary All Black with 132 test matches and two World Cups, shares his journey from rugby stardom to community champion. He reflects on playing alongside legends like Jonah Lomu and Richie McCaw while emphasizing kindness and humility in the sport. Mealamu discusses the challenges athletes face when transitioning to life after rugby, his dedication to personal health, and the influence of his Samoan heritage. Heartfelt memories, the importance of family, and the emotional weight of rugby memorabilia add depth to his captivating story.
Keven Mealamu attributes his enduring success in rugby to hard work, purpose, and the transformative experiences with the Chiefs.
Emphasizing vulnerability, Mealamu highlights its role in fostering trust and deeper connections, essential for team dynamics in rugby.
Mealamu discusses his post-rugby ventures and the importance of community engagement, reflecting his commitment to personal growth and giving back.
Deep dives
Kevin Mealamu's Rugby Journey
Kevin Mealamu reflects on his remarkable rugby career as one of the most capped All Blacks, with 132 test matches and two World Cup victories. He shares insights about memorable experiences, including the high-pressure moments of playing alongside legends like Jonah Lomu and the heartbreak of the 2007 Rugby World Cup exit. Mealamu attributes his longevity in the sport to hard work and a deep sense of purpose, particularly during transformative periods like his early years with the Chiefs. His dedication and focus allowed him to excel in a tough environment, showcasing his commitment to both personal growth and the success of the team.
Values Beyond Rugby
Outside of rugby, Mealamu emphasizes the importance of family, spirituality, and community involvement in shaping his identity. He discusses how being a devoted Catholic has guided his principles, encouraging him to stay true to his beliefs while navigating the pressures of a professional sports career. Mealamu also encourages deeper conversations, advocating vulnerability and sharing one’s life experiences to build connections. His experiences with impact journaling have provided him with tools for reflection and personal growth, allowing him to navigate life's challenges with resilience.
The Weight of Expectations
Mealamu candidly addresses the weight of expectations that come with being an All Black, sharing how he coped with the public scrutiny and pressure in high-stakes matches. He reflects on the transition from being a star athlete to retirement, acknowledging the challenges of rediscovering his identity outside of rugby. Forming a balance between personal and professional life has been an ongoing pursuit, as he navigates through feelings of self-doubt and the struggle of meeting both his expectations and those of others. Ultimately, he remains committed to self-improvement and learning from every experience.
Embracing Vulnerability
In the podcast, Mealamu emphasizes the importance of vulnerability and authenticity in relationships, both in rugby and personal life. He clarifies that embracing vulnerability fosters trust and deeper connections among team members, which is essential for building a strong rugby squad. He is transparent about his journey in becoming open to these types of conversations, learning to share struggles with others, including family. Through this, he has developed a stronger support network that has been vital to his mental well-being and growth.
Family and Personal Legacy
Mealamu shares heartfelt memories of his family and their impact on his life, particularly his late mother, who played a pivotal role in his upbringing. He recalls how her influence has motivated him to carry on her legacy through community engagement and personal values. He also describes his marriage and the importance of nurturing relationships in life, often attributing his successes to the unwavering support of his wife. The legacy he hopes to leave is rooted in kindness, humility, and the dedication to fostering meaningful connections with those around him.
Navigating Life After Rugby
As he adapts to life after rugby, Mealamu discusses the various ventures he has undertaken, including roles in fitness and security, as well as becoming an insurance broker. Each of these roles reflects his desire to give back to his community and support others. Despite facing recent health challenges, including a heart condition that has altered his ability to train, he maintains a positive outlook and focuses on what he can do rather than what has changed. His journey illustrates a commitment to personal growth and an unwavering dedication to making a difference for those around him.
Keven Mealamu is the 4th most capped All Black of all time with 132 test matches under his belt, including two world cup titles.
He is also widely regarded as the NICEST All Black of all time.
Away from rugby he is a devoted family man, a catholic, an artist, and a big contributor to his community.
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