Player Profile - Kane Hames

MEET THE MAKOS PLAYERS

This week we talk to prop forward recruit, Kane Hames, who should be available for selection very soon.

You came to us from the Highlanders and Bay of Plenty but have yet to get on the park. What’s been the injury concern and how far away are you from getting game time?

I injured my knees playing with the Highlanders which restricted me to 4 games. When I got here to the Makos I then broke my hand at training. I must have walked under a ladder or something!

You’ve played for the Maori All Blacks and been invited to All Blacks training camp last year. Obviously people rate you as a very promising prop. How did you end up in the front row, and what do you love about playing there?

As a kid I was originally a back rower, however my dad who was a hooker taught me how to scrummage. At secondary school my coach needed a prop so I put my hand up and I’ve been there since. I love scrums! I’ll pack scrums all day if asked to.

You also worked in the Bay of Plenty Rugby Union as a development officer. Is working in rugby what you want to do for a living after your playing days are over, or do you have other ambitions?

I want to be involved in rugby coaching or refereeing, both if I can. Having a prop as a first class referee would be unique and sure help at scrum time when 50:50 calls often go the wrong way.

Who was your biggest influence to become a better rugby player?

Brad Thorn (Mako #62) at the Highlanders. His attention to detail in match training and preparation really inspired me.

Who has been your biggest influence on life away from the game?

My primary school teachers taught me good lessons.

The Makos environment has always been welcoming. Is anyone pulling your leg yet?

The usual suspects, Tim Perry and Liam Squire, are good with the banter. They’re forever suggesting I go easy at training in case I injure myself again.

Who have you buddied up with in the squad?

The whole team gets on really well. There aren’t any cliques. But I have to say my best buddy so far has been Candace (Donovan, the team physio).

Is there anyone in the team you look up to or most want to play like?

Shane Christie is a complete rugby player. His work rate and work ethic is second to none.

Name any player in world rugby who you would most like to be like and why?

I’ll go with Brad Thorn, again. He is just a fantastic person and he has achieved so much success in rugby.