Rugby: Balance really important, Dagg tells players

Israel Dagg

All Black and Magpies rugby fullback Israel Dagg stressed the importance of balance when addressing last night's function via Skype.

"Have balance because if you don't you can burn out really fast. That's especially important for me this year with the World Cup," Dagg said, when being interviewed by the Hawke's Bay union's new talent development co-ordinator, former Magpie Jason Shoemark. "Although, at the moment I'm having a lot of time off because I'm always injured," Dagg quipped.

The Lindisfarne College product emphasised the importance of preparation and going to the gym. "Don't just rely on your talent. I did that when I was at school when I didn't worry about the gym or eating healthy. That was because I was from a cruisy background but I soon realised there are better ways."

Dagg said although he found dealing with the media tough he also considered it a privilege and urged the intake to "just deal with it" when facing the media.

"When I'm 40 nobody will want to know me," he joked.

Dagg also stressed there was no need for players to leave the Bay as it boasted a healthy union and produced numerous Super players. His last bit of advice: "If you're not enjoying it, it's not worth it".

Magpies head coach Craig Philpott had some similar advice to Dagg. "Hard work will beat talent when talent doesn't work hard."

Philpott also reminded players of the importance of having the right character and the fact they had a chance to make a living out of the game.