From Mangawhai to the All Blacks

Donning the All Blacks shirt has catapulted Simon Parker into the national rugby spotlight. At 197cm and 117kg, Simon Parker cuts an imposing figure on the rugby field. The 25-year-old loose forward, who has quickly built a reputation for his direct, uncompromising style, now finds himself wearing the black jersey he dreamed of as a boy practising the haka in the shower. Parker, who started his rugby career as an Otamatea High School student, played for the Otamatea Hawks in the IMB competition. Club president Bevan Thomas says the club couldn’t be prouder. “We’re looking forward to hanging an...