Once, rugby was something that was played mainly on converted paddocks and multi-purpose fields. The only players who got to travel were those who made the All Blacks, and great as that experience was, it was also likely to be a once-in-a-lifetime event.
Today, professionalism has meant that players have opportunities beyond the dreams of the old boys. Not only do the All Blacks tour frequently, but so do the Super 12 teams. And New Zealand rugby players are in great demand the world over.
Many secure lucrative contracts with overseas teams. This book contains the stories of dozens of such players and coaches.
People such as Brendan Laney (Scotland), Alex Wyllie (Argentina), John Kirwan (Italy), Josh Kronfeld (England), Alan Whetton (Japan), Laurie Mains (South Africa), and Jeremy Paul (Australia). Also featured are men who played in countries less strongly associated with rugby: China, Roumania, Georgia and the Basque Country, to name a few.
And while New Zealand players are going overseas, rugby players from other countries are coming to New Zealand, for example Steve Devine and Christian Califano, and their experiences are also featured.
