‘Culture’ seems to be the latest buzzword in the rugby world right now.

You can’t sit down in front of a game, pick up a magazine or pop on a podcast without some mention of the word, but what does it actually mean and just how much of an impact does it have?

The dictionary definition of culture goes a little something like this:

‘The ideas, customs and social behavior of a particular people or society.’

But how do we take this into a rugby context?

New Rugby Stash is here!

Our new nations inspired range is exactly that. We looked at 7 rugby nations and took inspiration from their heritage, flag, colours and previous team kits.

The aim with these outfits is to bring true rugby flavour into our rugby range. Epic and unique colourways that wouldn’t be combined otherwise. These colours can be worn with pride within the rugby community as people will instantly recognise the colourways if you wish to wear them to the gym, in the house or at the stadiums or pubs to support your teams.

One key change we have made with our hoodies compared to our Lions inspired range is that we have removed all mentions of the nation name. We have done this so that if you do really love another nation’s outfit you can buy it and wear it without shouting that you’re a supporter of that nation.

How did you start playing rugby?

I played football first and that was my first sport until I was 12, that’s when I started to play rugby. I basically lost interest in football and I always loved rugby, my father and uncle also played rugby.

Interestingly, my dad wanted me to play football as he loves football! I played in goals in football then started rugby at under 11s.

Why did you stop playing football so early?

Only so much you could do in goals! So much more to do in rugby, more skills and more fun and appealing!

Were you gifted in school or worked hard to be where you are today? 

I was a good player. I was a bit bigger compared to the others. As I went through secondary I became quite small and they became physically bigger than me at 16-17 then I eventually caught up.

When and how did you get started in Rugby?

My brother who is 2 years older than me played for our local team Aberavon Quins so I started playing with him when I was 6 years old. Then it all went from there!

What keeps you motivated and how did you stay motivated when things weren’t going your way?

My family keeps me motivated, especially now I have young children. Having a game every weekend also keeps me motivated!

Name: Darren Dawidiuk

Age: 29

Position: Hooker

Club: Gloucester

When and how did you get started with rugby?

I started rugby at the age of 11. I went to watch my older brother Dan play, and just wanted to copy him like most younger brothers do. That week my brother took me down the park to practice passing and tackling, then on the weekend my Dad took me to Truro rugby club. I’ve been hooked ever since.