Todd Clever Japan update from Eaglesxv.com
Todd Clever Japan update
This week EaglesXV spoke to the charismatic rugby icon Todd Clever, who recently moved his life from the Republic of South Africa to Japan.
Clever – who likes to call San Diego home – has done a fair bit of travelling through the sport of rugby having also spent two seasons in New Zealand. He played for Mahurangi before joining North Harbour for the 2005/2006 season.
We caught up with the longhaired Clever who is now at the Suntory Sungoliath club in Tokyo coached by the legendary Eddie Jones.
EaglesXV: Tell us about your first few weeks in Japan?
Todd Clever: One word – “on the go!”. It was very nonstop getting all settled in, and had a full time translator to hold my hand with setting up a new life from cable/Internet, dentist/medical check-up, to getting my Alien card. We ran, rode bikes, took taxis and trains all around Tokyo getting it sorted. Saw Tokyo a bit differently than the other times I have been here! Things have settled down a little bit, and have somewhat of a rhythm to my life now. Spending 5-7 hours a day at the rugby club with the rest exploring and relaxing.
EaglesXV: How has the language barrier been for you?
Todd Clever: So far it has been very tough, but getting easier. I have Japanese lessons a couple times a week. I am making some progress but ages away from scoring with it!
EaglesXV: What is the level of professionalism like at your new club?
Todd Clever: Honestly, this is the most professional set up I have had in terms of staff and training facilities. The Suntory Rugby Union is 5 minutes from my house and has everything there. I never take home training stuff, all laundry is done at the clubhouse. They have got a nice field / gym / recovery room / meeting/class rooms. it's top class for sure!
EaglesXV: Are the coaches/management from all over the world?
Todd Clever: The staff is mainly from Australia and Japan with Eddie Jones heading the whole charge bringing in his best guys for specialty coaching, physio, strength & condition etc. The Japanese guys are all former National and Suntory players that put a lot of time and effort into the team.
EaglesXV: Which other players are in your squad that have international experience?
Todd Clever: We currently have 6 foreigners: 2- Aussies (George Gregan, Peter Hewat) 2- New Zealanders (Tusi Pisi, Ryan Nicholas) 1- American (me) 1- South African (Wayne Van Heerden).
We also have 7 current Japan National Team Players.
EaglesXV: Are you the biggest person in Japan?
Todd Clever: Haha… No, but I think I am pretty close!
EaglesXV: You mentioned you have a 3-bedroom place. Will roommates be moving in eventually?
Todd Clever: No, it's to my lonesome. I stay at the same condos as the rest of the foreigners, but most of them are married with kids. I was offered a Studio here in Tokyo, but really didn't want to be living in a shoebox! So I got a couple extra beds if any of the boys are in the doghouse. My guess Peter (Hewat) will be knocking on my door first seems like that kind of guy!
EaglesXV: How long is your season?
Todd Clever: The season starts in September and ends in February (with a month off for November Internationals)
EaglesXV: What is the track record of your side in the league?
Todd Clever: I would tell you but I honestly don't know for sure. All the writing in the Clubhouse is in Japanese! But there are a lot of trophies on the shelves and we are considered to be one of the favorites.
EaglesXV: How is the currency going, you figuring it out yet?
Todd Clever: Currency is a bit of a challenge. I am just taking off two of the last digits and that’s my price (in USD). I think I may be overspending a bit… but not going to worry too much on it right now.
EaglesXV: Tell us more about the food?
Todd Clever: For the most part I am a big fan - love the sushi, love the noodles but every once in a while they will bring out some fish heads and crazy other stuff that I am a bit hesitant on! Grocery shopping is a huge change, and that will take some time getting used to it.
EaglesXV: How is shoulder rehab going, and when are you expected to be 100% fit to play?
Todd Clever: Shoulder is going well, taking the necessary time and not rushing it. Doing all the rehab and strengthening. Should be back September at 100% really wanting to get back on the park!
Thanks so much to Todd for this exclusive interview! For more updates about him click on http://www.ToddClever.com.
Next week we will be hearing from Lou Stanfill about his Italian contract. Plus we will also speak to Mike Petri and Kevin Swiryn.
Email any questions you want answered, or which players you want to hear from!
Cheers,
Paki
