NICKNAME: Nicci
POSITION: 2nd team physio
WHEN DID YOU JOIN HAMMIES? 2019
PHYSIO BACKGROUND:
Graduated 2016 from UKZN
Worked at a sports physio practice in Green Point in 2017
Worked on the yachts as a physio/stew 2018
Started at NCA Physiotherapy 2018
Started at Hammies in 2019
Became partner at NCA Physiotherapy in 2021
BEST ADVICE TO PLAYERS TO AVOID INJURIES:
Take the time to warm up properly before practice and before games. Don’t underestimate the influence of dynamic stretching pre-game.
WHY IS A SLOW START SO CRUCIAL AFTER HAVING AN EXTENDED BREAK FROM PLAYING ACTIVE RUGBY?
You need to build up your fitness, endurance and stamina. To do this you need to work on your speed, agility, strength and skill. Building this up slowly will prevent injury (remember muscles take 3 – 4 weeks to build up).
FAVOURITE HAMMIES MOMENT:
That nervous/excited feeling, before every game, in the change room when the boys are hyping themselves up/ getting into the zone (the best is when the music is pumping).
FAVOURITE HAMMIES LEGEND/PERSONALITY AND WHY:
Derrick Lichtenstein – he’s been “retiring” since I joined Hammies, but he’s still here and he helps keep everything going.
BEST ADVICE FOR UPCOMING PLAYERS:
Be consistent, come to practice, warm up and look after yourself.
WHAT MOVIE CHARACTER DESCRIBES YOU BEST, AND WHY?
Jess, from ‘New Girl. Her character is sweet, loyal and quirky.
SOMETHING YOU DON’T KNOW ABOUT ME:
My star sign is Taurus.
LIKES:
Beach, coffee, chocolate, dogs, dogs, Gin & tonic/ wine/ champagne, socializing with friends and family.
DISLIKES:
Rude and fake people, geckos and dishonesty.
FUNNIEST MOMENT ON THE FIELD:
It’s always a little awkward when a player gets hit in the “crown jewels”… do you want ice…? (if you know you know). 
FAVOURITE RUGBY PLAYER OF ALL TIME:
Cheslin Kolbe – have you seen how fast his footwork is?
WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT HAMMIES?
The feeling of being a part of a family. You know without a doubt that everyone has your back.
GOALS FOR 2021:
To travel more of South Africa, meet new people and to grow in my career