Meet Ethan Blackadder
Originally selected to the Makos squad as a wider training member, 21 year old Ethan Blackadder has taken his opportunity as an injury cover replacement in round 4 against Otago to become a big part of the Tasman match day line-up, playing the last 7 matches in the backrow.
Congratulations on becoming Tasman Mako # 146. You come to us from club rugby with Nelson RFC. Tell us about your background and what motivated you to want to play for Tasman.
I’m originally from down south, Rangiora just out of Christchurch, before moving to Nelson to attend Nelson College. I haven’t left since. It wasn’t until after leaving school that I had a big motivation to try to play for Tasman. It’s such a mint region and I decided to give it a crack.
What did you want to achieve in this Makos campaign?
Being selected as a wider training group player was a great opportunity that I wanted to make the most of. I wanted to learn as much as I could off the great players and coaches that are here, keep looking to improve my game and meet new people.
At what age and where did you first play rugby?
I began at age 7 playing for a club called Woodend Rugby Club just out of Christchurch.
Who have been your biggest influences to become a better rugby player, and as a person?
My family has been really supportive and I got a lot of motivation from that when I decided to play rugby seriously and when I want to have a crack at anything different.
The Makos environment has always been welcoming. Who have you buddied up with in the squad?
The Makos is definitely an awesome environment. I try to buddy up with everyone as they are all really good fellas.
Name any player in world rugby who you would most like to be like and why?
A guy like Richie McCaw is pretty unreal but Shane Christie is the man as he’s an awesome player and a great guy!
What is the one thing that people don’t know about you?
I just try and keep things pretty simple. I enjoy the outdoors, love jet boating and hunting. And I enjoy catching up with mates.
