All Blacks legend Ma'a Nonu is actively involved in the development of young talents at the Sharks franchise by conducting early morning sessions. His passionate commitment to the club inspires the next generation of players.
Nonu has taken on a new mentorship role in Durban, where he meets with the brightest young Sharks midfielders at 6:30 AM. These meetings include gym training, skills practice, and discussions about rugby. Coach JP Pietersen notes that Nonu's influence is already being felt.
The centre, who played 103 matches for the national team, was recently incorporated into the high-performance Sharks program as a mentor and immediately began working with the club's rising stars.
Nonu's Internal Club: Mentorship and Inspiration
Nonu organized his own early morning 'club' with a group of young Sharks players. JP Pietersen stated that 'Ma'a fit perfectly,' emphasizing that he had known Nonu since their time playing Super Rugby. He also mentioned that Nonu can provide feedback to him.
These young athletes gather every morning at 6:30 in the gym with Nonu, Jurenzo Julius, Murray Koster, and Litelihle Bester. During these sessions, they work out in the gym, practice skills and passes, and discuss rugby.
According to Pietersen, Nonu's extensive knowledge and experience can be particularly valuable. He assists young players with attacking play, understanding space, and most importantly, preparation. Pietersen wonders how players prepare before stepping onto the field: with a plan or without one.
Pietersen believes that such attention to detail can accelerate the development of promising young Sharks players. He added that Nonu challenges them regarding professionalism, which is a learning process for most of them. The coach expressed gratitude for Nonu being at the club at this stage of his career, hoping his knowledge will help the young players become established professionals.
Among those receiving knowledge from Nonu are junior players Jaco Williams (Junior Boks), winger Vusi Moyo, winger Donovan Don, and fullback Luan Giliomee. For players just starting their journey in professional rugby, having access to someone with Nonu's pedigree represents a significant opportunity.
Nonu had a brilliant career with New Zealand from 2003 to 2015, winning two consecutive Rugby World Cups in 2011 and 2015. He also played in 126 Super Rugby matches for the Hurricanes, as well as for the Blues and Highlanders. After ending his playing career at Toulouse, where he scored 100 tries.
Nonu occasionally takes to the field, as he did when playing for the Sharks against the All Blacks during the 'Greatest Rugby Rivalry' match, demonstrating his memorable haka response. However, his greatest contribution to the Sharks will be made behind the scenes.