Due to the fact that Argentinian Rugby is amateur, I've had the chance to come across and become friends with many players.
- Juan Hernandez: I used to watch him play in Deportiva Francesa 14 years ago (I was 7). Ironically, back then he was an average player with rather inconsistent performances. Then he moved to Córdoba for 1 year (and played in La Tablada RC), and when he came back...
wow. He seemed like a
totally different player. It would seem that all he needed was a little motivation.
Hernandez's sister, Maripi, coaches hockey teams in my sister's club, so I've met Juani and his wife MarÃa Emilia in some
asados and parties. He's extremely shy, and enjoys Philosophy.
- AgustÃn Pichot: I am yet to know of a rugby player here who has never met Ficha. The guy's everywhere. You can see him visiting all clubs, conducting gatherings with U10 teams, collaborating with several projects, etc. I had the pleasure to attend the party after his retirement match, and it was totally epic (despite Maradona's sudden decision of joining up). Ficha is always on MSN and you can always mail him inquiring about your doubts or problems. Again, I'm not special for having it... just imagine that he gives out his personal info to whoever gets to talk to him. :huh:
- Manuel Contepomi: This is the only Puma I am friends with. Mainly because my father is part of the Newman directive committee, so along with Manuel and Felipe they've coordinated hundreds of events in the last years. He now works at the club coaching underage teams, so I get to see him a lot (I am currently coaching the 10-12 year old forwards). He's a shy and nice guy, doesn't talk a lot unless it's about Rugby, but whenever he opens his mouth you can appreciate his wisdom and humility. I've met Felipe several times as well, but he always comes down here in a hurry.
- Hugo Porta: same as with Pichot. This legend is everywhere. He attends as many games as possible, and if you're lucky enough to catch him training at Banco Nación Club, you might get invited to join him for some touch rugby. I don't need to say how talented Porta is. His legs are not powerful anymore but his distribution and kicking remain as classy as in his prime. I like how he makes everything so easy on the pitch, even while facing younger players.
- Patricio Noriega: Total monster. I first met him when he was coaching Hindú Club in 2007. He conducted a forward training session involving Newman, Lomas, Hindú and Los Tilos. During one of the drills he tackled me... and what a tackle that was! No wonder he was one of the best props around.
- Rodrigo Roncero: Another monster. I first came across him during my holidays in France. My brother screamed,
"look, that's Rorro!", and I was like...
"Rorro... riding a scooter? Nah man". Then I witnessed how that stocky figure turned out to be one of our props (poor scooter
). One week later we found out where he lived and we caught him off guard for a chat and some pictures. Then he asked if we knew how to properly cook
asado because Parisse was an
awful cooker. :lol:
I took some pictures and talked to some Pumas during the WC, but nothing special.
Oh, and another thing. In 2005 the Boks came to Argentina, and I saw the whole squad walking out of the Sheraton Hotel, towards an italian restaurant across the street. And I was UTTERLY annoyed to see that nobody seemed to know who all those big guys were. I bet the Boks thought exactly the same.
Football... duh.[/b]
