Full name: Jose Paolo O. Loanzon
Nickname: Pao
Place of birth: NCR, Philippines
Current city: Manila, beybeh
Years in rugby: 8 years. 6 if you remove the years off due to injury.
Position: Utility. I’ve played scrum-half, wing, and loose forward. Plug and play.
Superpower: Constantly injured but still going! Does that work?
Tell us about yourself and what you do outside rugby?
I’m a reformed asthmatic, borderline hypertensive, overweight, unathletic boy. I was on my high school debate team and I loved (still love) to nerd out on the social sciences. I discovered my love for sports in University as a sports photographer for the varsity teams and lost a lot of weight by running – before stumbling into the rugby field and the weights room.
I currently work for an education financing start-up with a background in finance, tech, and education management. I’m still a nerd.
When and how did you start with Manila Nomads?
In the 2015 season, my club at the time – Pasig Pirates(?) / Isla / Immortals lost to the Nomads in the 15s Plate Final and subsequently dissolve. 2016 came around and I was clubless. I had played with then captain Jimmy Salter-Duke before in a 7s game the previous year and asked if I could train with the Nomads, who were preparing for the 2016 Manila 10s. I was invited down and I’ve been there ever since.
What is your favorite rugby move, skill or position?
I love tackling! By far the most satisfying skill to learn in rugby (even if I’m still far from good at it). I’ve always enjoyed playing as a flanker – taking and giving hits. I’ve just never had the size or the structural integrity to be a forward.
Tell us of any unforgettable or funny experiences you had in Manila Nomads.
The 2017 season ender had me as the Carabao of the Year which was pretty memorable and unexpected. I can’t remember which season it was but I also had to wear an American Football helmet the whole night at a social as a penalty for always getting injured during the season which was hilarious, looking back.
What are the valuable lessons you’ve learned or wisdom you’ve gained on and off the pitch?
Rugby taught me that you never get anything done alone and that other people rely on you as much as you rely on them. So you owe it to not only yourself but to everyone else to be the best you can be. It drives me to work harder and try to make a positive impact on anything I do.
Any message to anyone who wants to try rugby?
Rugby is a fun sport! And It’s tough because it values toughness – physically, mentally, emotionally. But Toughness grows and that means you don’t need to be tough to start. Build your toughness with rugby. Come on down and give it a try!
