Jonah Lomu

Jonah Tali Lomu (born May 12, 1975) is a New Zealand rugby union footballer who played 73 times (63 test matches) as an All Black after debuting in 1994. Lomu, who is currently attempting a comeback after undergoing a kidney transplant in 2004, is generally regarded as the first superstar of rugby union's professional era.

Genesis of a Giant

Jonah's physique was uniquely suited for rugby: large, fast, and strong. He possessed these qualities in plenty, and augmented them with aggression, skill, and an intimidating presence on the field.

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At 1.96 metres Lomu is as tall as most locks, and at 120 kilograms is as heavy as most prop forwards. Despite his size, he was, when healthy, still able to run 100 metres in 10.8 seconds. At school his sprint training included running around the field, pulling a lawn-roller with a rope tied around his waist.

Related Topics:
Locks - Prop forwards

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While at Wesley and being coached by Chris Grinter, Lomu became a mobile loose forward in the college's First XV. He was soon noticed by provincial rugby selectors, and played for the Counties Manukau NPC team for around 5 years.

Related Topics:
Counties Manukau - NPC

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