An Interview With Ali Williams

Ali Williams was in the UK with the All Blacks and whilst he was here adidas UK invited us to a meeting with him where we asked him a variety of questions. First some background information for those of you who do not know:

Born; 30 April 1981, Auckland, New Zealand. Playing Position Lock also known as Second Row. Height 2.02m (6’71/2″).
School; King’s College, Auckland. College/University; Auckland University of Technology. Current Super 15 team Blues (Auckland)

What boots does Ali Williams wear

Like all the All Blacks squad Ali is centrally contracted by the New Zealand Rugby Football Union. This means that he is part of the adidas sponsorship and all kit is from them.

What boots do you wear and do you use more than one type depending on conditions?
I use 2 different types of rugby specific footwear – one for training and one for scrumming/playing.  I wear the adidas 118 shoe for training and the R15 6 sprig boot for playing in. adidas are also working with my medical team to ensure I am wearing the right boot

Would you say the right boots are the most important piece of kit?
looking after your feet with the right boots are the most important kit you need. Thanks adidas.

If boots are the most important in order of importance what are the next three?
Mouthguard, headgear, lucky underwear.

What advice would you give to youngsters about the boots and kit they wear ?
just make sure you comfit it first priority, then looks

News and Views

How is your injury coming on and when will you expect to be able to play?
Coming along well be expected to play in early Jan

What are the top three pieces of advice you would give to youngsters hoping to reach top level rugby?
Passion, dream big, and work hard.

Which 4 sides do you think are most likely to contest the 2011 RWC semi-finals?
South Africa, England, Australia and us

Do you think rugby is becoming more dangerous with the higher speeds and physicality?
No

Super 15 will the blues have a competitive squad next year ……… what do the players think of the new format and number of games in a world cup year?
The blues will be very competitive and are excited about the new structure it is only good for the game. Can’t wait to hook into it.

New Ventures

Ali, Richie McCaw and Daniel Carter have a new venture selling water and salad in new Zealand. Part of the proceeds from every sale goes to charities so it is a very ethical and worthwhile business, we had one question on this for him:

I see you have a new business and charity venture going how is it progressing and do you plan to go international with it?
Thing’s are coming along well and people are starting to understand the concept that we are developing. We have the big goal to go international but good things take time. If there is anyone out there that wants’ the world’s best water just get hold of us at www.foreveryone.co.nz

A big thank you to Ali and adidas UK for giving us the time before he returned to New Zealand for further rehab in his target to be fit for a return in January 2011.

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