Jacob Ellison is one of Wellington’s great unsung heroes – a tough, mobile front-rower who gave absolutely everything every time he pulled on a jersey. From the Wellington Lions and Hurricanes to the Highlanders, the Māori All Blacks and several seasons in Japan, Jacob built a reputation as the ultimate team man.

But this chat is about far more than scrums. Jacob opens up about his remarkable life:

His unusual pathway from the wing to the front row

The shift from Hurricanes to Highlanders and life as a “middle-ground” pro

How he's managed having epilepsy throughout his career

His powerful and emotional journey with IVF, loss and finally becoming a dad

The key to managing the life after rugby transition

Some classic stories including an interesting epilepsy diagnosis from a Japanese doctor

Learning the hard way about agents, contracts and preparing for life after rugby

And heaps more including your questions!

It’s funny, raw and inspiring – from yellow-jersey court sessions to Jamie Joseph’s sniper-rifle pep talks, right through to the lessons he passes on to young players today.

If you love genuine stories from genuine people, this is a special listen.

#WhatALad #RugbyPodcast #JacobEllison

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