Middle and high school rugby players were thrilled to welcome a rugby legend to ASL, when former captain of the New Zealand All Blacks Anton Oliver dropped in to say hello.

Anton joined the rugby teams in the Commons for a buffet dinner, and followed with a motivational talk with our athletes. Oliver shared anecdotes from his career, including charming stories about some of the famous faces he met along the way (including the Queen, princes William and Harry, Nelson Mandela and Sylvester Stallone!)

On a more serious note, he spoke to the students about his motivation and passions, and emphasized the need for a balance between sports and studies. He encouraged the players to be passionate about their talents and love for sports, but also to work hard on their studies and have a "back-up plan” for when the game finishes. Anton reflected on teamwork and leadership, and noted that a good leader enables group responsibility—the successes, trials and tribulations of a team are the responsibility of everyone taking part, not any one individual. After his speech, students queued for a chance to meet Mr. Oliver for photographs and signatures.

Anton and his father, Frank Oliver, are the only father and son to captain their country in international rugby union history. Anton was appointed captain in 2001, and Frank captained the team in 1978.

During his successful 12-year rugby career, Anton studied for not just one but two post-graduate degrees; an MSc from the University of Oxford and an MBA from the University of Cambridge.) After retiring from rugby, Anton decided to try his hand at something different and now works in London in asset management and global equities. 

The rugby teams clearly took Anton’s words to heart—the following day, high school teams went on to play at Canons Park against TASIS Tigers, with the varsity team winning the game, 55-0. In the spirit of teamwork and good sportsmanship, the players then gathered together for their traditional post-game tea, where gentlemen from both sides pull up a chair and dine together.

Go, Pirates!