Full name: Nick Jones
Nickname: Jonezy / ex-Captain America
Place of birth: Zimbabwe
Current city: Manila
Years in rugby: 10ish
Position: Anywhere in the backline
Superpower: Kawawa face
Tell us about yourself and what you do outside rugby?
Exotic mutt (British / Filipino / African-American) with a predilection for basic shit like listening to Drake and drinking mimosas at brunch. Been in the NGO game for the last 5 years or so, which means I’m poor and well-traveled. Favorite pastimes include: watching the mighty Liverpool FC almost win things, speaking bad French, and embarrassing my siblings and girlfriend in the greatest video game of all time—Tekken.
When and how did you start with Manila Nomads?
Started playing for the Nomads football (soccer) team when I moved to Manila in 2009. About 4 years later I learned the club had a rugby team as well. Soon found out that they were all depraved lunatics…and I haven’t played competitive football since. One of my better life decisions.
What is your favorite rugby move, skill or position?
Running straight with the ball and steamrolling a defender. Never managed it, but looks fun.
Tell us of any unforgettable or funny experiences you had in Manila Nomads.
What happens on tour, stays on tour.
Winning the 2017 league championship after a 30-man brawl in the pouring rain was pretty good though.
Tell us about your experience as last term’s Nomads’ captain? What’s the most valuable lesson you’ve learned or wisdom you’ve gained?
Biggest highlight of last year had to be the establishment of the Rogues, our first ever women’s team. We now have a handful of girls in the national team training pool and I’m sure there’s many more to follow. So proud of them!
Most valuable lesson? The girls are far more organized than the boys, and far less inclined to blindly agree with everything I say. #strongindependentwomen
Any tips or advice you can give to your successor and all future Nomads captains?
After extensive research, I’ve managed to uncover the virtuous circle of Nomads rugby: winning → tastier beer at socials → happier teammates → more winning.
Any message to anyone who wants to try rugby?
Don’t worry about how old you are or what kind of shape you’re in. It’s a surprisingly easy game to pick up and the Nomads always welcome newbies with open arms and cold beers.
Once a Nomad, always a Nomad…
Jonezy
