10 Questions With Todd Clever. . .

Todd Clever, Captain of the USA Rugby Men's Team and a member of the South African Super 14 Lions, took time to answer some of Iron Lion Jeremy Boco, Eric Meoli and Coach Besio's questions.

Jeremy:  What distinguishes you from most other rugby players?

Todd:    There are different types of rugby players from social players to die hard players and onto Professionals. As a professional you have to eat, drink & sleep rugby.  What distinguishes me from others is I find the time to do the extra work to get me ahead of the others. If it's watching film or doing shuttles.

Jeremy:  What is one thing you will not tolerate in a rugby match?

 Todd: I enjoy the physical part of rugby but I do not tolerate cheap dirty play. Some people criticize me for some of my play but I consider it just going as hard as possible and sometimes my emotions get the best of me.

Jeremy: What was the best move/play and try scored you accomplished? 

Todd: One of my best memories on a rugby field was being part of the "try of the world cup" in 2007 I didn't score it but being on the field with the atmosphere of the world cup playing against the Springboks and being part of the full field try was something special and I will never forget it.

Jeremy: When did you start playing rugby?

Todd: I started playing rugby my freshman year in High school. I Played for College Park RFC in San Jose California. 

Jeremy: What is your favorite motivational song?

Todd: I am not the one to get all pumped up on music before games, I am fairly quiet and stick to myself. I go over my notes and goals for the game. I like the sound of some good tunes after the game.

Jeremy: How do you celebrate a victory?

Coach Besio:  When did you know that you arrived?

Todd: I continue to improve and learn. I am not a finished product nor do I think I ever will be while playing rugby. That's the beauty of the sport it's always changing and you always have to adapt. But I am continually asked to prove myself on the field, and accept every challenge that is brought to me.

Coach Besio: What is the pressure like being captain of team USA?

Todd: Captaining and playing for the USA comes with some pressure. Every time I have put on that Eagle Jersey I am playing for my country, my teammates, fans, friends and family. That alone puts a bit of pressure on my shoulders.

Coach Besio: Besides yourself, what teammate would you say most wants the ball in that crucial spot and your damn glad they have it and why? 

Todd: I can name a few guys that would put their hand up for that sort of pressure. I think as a player you should back yourself and back your teammates and make the most of the opportunities.  In saying that Andrea Pretorious and Earl Rose would not shy down from a drop kick in the dying seconds of a game.  Chris Wyles would pin his ears back and take on his opposite.

Eric: I would like to continue my rugby career as long as it will have me.. what can I do to improve or make sure that I stay in the sport and advance as long as possible?

Todd: The great thing about rugby is you can play for many many years. they have golden oldies, touch leagues, and the list goes on. If you have love for the sport it's easy to stay part of it, playing,coaching, reffing etc.  If you want to play at the top level for longer you have to look after your body and do the right things to make sure it's in working order week after week.  I myself Ice bath after each game and big training sessions. I have also used Yoga and Pilates to keep me limber and fresh.

The Iron Lions would like to thank Todd for taking the time to answer these questions and for wishing the Iron Lions "good luck" with the remainder of the season. Todd would like the players to check out his website for workouts and nutritional information at www.toddclever.com .

10 Questions With Tui Osborne. . .

Tui Osborne, a member of the USA Rugby Men's Team and Life University's Running Eagles, took time to answer some of Iron Lion Jeremy Boco's questions.

Jeremy:  What makes the best rugby teams in your opinion?

Tui:  Identifying mistakes and working on them until it is almost perfect, preparation and mostly heart. 

Jeremy: What other activities do you enjoy off the pitch?

Tui: Playing the guitar, hanging out with friends and family.

Jeremy: What got you started playing rugby?

Tui: My childhood dream was to play international rugby, so I decided to start playing in high school.

Jeremy: Why have you continued with rugby?

Tui: Not only because its the best sport in the world, I love it and its easy to be passionate about something you are somewhat good at.

Jeremy: Name a memorable moment from rugby (either something you did or watched)

Tui: Making the 2007 world cup squad to France.

Jeremy: Do you look up to any famous rugby players?

Tui: Waisale Serevi (Fiji Sevens Legend)

Jeremy: Do you have a favorite coach or teammate (Past or present)?

Tui: Teammate - Chris Wyles. (USA Eagles Fullback and Saracens Fullback). He is a very good player but is always humble. Coaches - Al Caravelli (Eagles Sevens Coach) and Scott Lawrence (Current Coach @ Life University) he is always looking to make me a better player and most important a better person.

Jeremy: What is your most favorite part and least favorite part of playing rugby?

Tui: My most favorite part is after winning a hard fought and close game. My least is feeling the aches the next day.

Jeremy: Do you still keep in touches with any coaches/teammates?

Tui: Yes

Jeremy: What position did you start out as / play currently?

Tui: I started playing outside center. I am a utility back. I mostly  play fullback, 13 and wing.

The Iron Lions would like to thank Tui for taking the time to answer these questions and for wishing the Iron Lions "good luck" with the upcoming season.