Cortez Ratima signs autographs after the All Blacks Captains' run at Snapdragon Stadium, San Diego. Photo Derrick Tuskan/Action Press.
Sigrid Christiansen caught up with Piopio All Black Cortez Ratima about his first weeks of wearing the famous jersey.
For Cortez ‘Tez’ Ratima, his All Black selection is still sinking in – “I’m grateful, and it’s something that’s hard to put words to,” he said, in an interview with The News after his return from playing Fiji in San Diego, in the US.
Tez is back home in Hamilton and in dad mode. During our phone call, his baby son Kyvie could be heard playing close by.
It feels “still pretty crazy,” being in the same environment as players like Beauden Barrett and Ardie Savea.
And he’s learning what goes into their excellent games.
“The difference is their diligence during the week, prepping off the field.”
He said they excel at something that’s easier said than done – being in the moment, well before running onto the field.
“I was sitting on the bench with Beauden and he was talking through the game. While that wouldn’t be unusual for top-level players, it was the first time I’d seen it happen to that extent. He was just so present, so focussed on the game.”
He also appreciated the “cool, welcoming environment” created in the All Black squad, thanks to coach Scott Robertson.
“He tells us: you’re here for a reason.”
Ratima was named alongside TJ Perenara and Noah Hotham as the three half backs for the Lipovitan-D Rugby Championship this week.
The News asked which international side he would be most excited about playing, and the answer was the Springboks, especially since they are no longer part of Super Rugby.
“Going over to South Africa and even just seeing those massive stadiums…
“Then there’s their physical style of rugby, not as fast, a bit like the English style.”
He said this would help “grow our game” as a team.
He’s grateful for the support of partner Phillipa; the two have been together since their schooldays.
“I’ve been so lucky to have her by my side while I’m pursuing my rugby dreams.
Having a baby has “added to my appreciation of her, even more so.”
Speaking of youngsters, what has having an All Black in the family meant for his younger brother and sister, also talented players? “We haven’t really had a big chat about it yet, I think the main thing is to let them be kids while they are kids.”
While being serious about sport involves a lot of hard work, there’s plenty of time for that later on.
“And if they do put sport to the forefront, then I can definitely help them,” he said. “A hundred percent, I would do that.”
