By Will Johnston

For new Taranaki recruit Xavier Roe, there are similarities between his home town of Pauanui and Taranaki – both have great surfing conditions.

The 20-year-old, who has signed for Taranaki until 2020, said although the sea is a lot cooler here, Taranaki offers a comparable environment.

“I can relate it to home. It’s quite beachy here. I haven’t surfed much since I’ve been injured and it’s obviously a bit cooler than Pauanui but I’m looking forward to the warmer climate,” he said. 

The new move for the halfback was inspired by Taranaki coach Willie Rickards, who assisted the New Zealand Under 20 team, which included Roe, in France during the World Rugby U20 Championship.

“I liked his coaching style, liked who he was as a general person. There were better opportunities down here and an opportunity to get game time with the amber and blacks,” he said.

The move hasn’t been too difficult for Roe who boarded at Hamilton Boys’ High School since he was year nine.

As he arrived in Taranaki later than normal, Roe has worked hard to get into the squad.

“I came in pretty late which was difficult, then I got injured for a month. I guess I have had to work my way into the team more than the other guys.”

Roe said the Mitre10 Cup season has been a lot different to his experience in the Under 20s.  He has had the opportunity to play against former All Blacks and experienced players.

“The intensity is the same, but it’s a bit different when you play for your country and there is so much pressure and expectation being the best in the world.”

The new environment has been a huge learning for Roe as it is his first-time training with a Mitre10 Cup team. He said he has to be “really onto it” and try not to let his team members down and train hard. 

Despite the difficult season Taranaki is having, Roe has noticed the community spirit locally and he can see that when playing at Yarrow Stadium.

“You see everyone on game day wearing their jerseys. I’ve noticed rugby is a big part of Taranaki. Hopefully we put performances together supporters can be proud of.”

He said it’s hard when the team is training hard and not playing as well but insists the team must take every week as it comes and not dwell on the past or risk making the same mistake.

“Take every week as a new week and review and once Monday comes you have to move on,” he said.

Next year, he will settle into the Taranaki club environment and although he hasn’t committed to any club, there are a few offers on the table.

“I guess my focus is to be the best rugby player I can be. I set a high standard for myself. Going forward, I want to cement a position in the squad as I get older and play more minutes for Taranaki,” he said.

Roe does have some goals moving forward and believes being in the U20s environment will help his case to secure a Super Rugby contract. 

Article added: Monday 08 October 2018