Kurt Eklund - What a Lad

Kurt Eklund - What a Lad

From What a Lad by Presented by Betcha

August 5, 2026 · 1h 18m · Season 7 · Episode 332

About this episode

Kurt Eklund shares his unconventional journey in New Zealand rugby, highlighting personal challenges and triumphs.

Kurt Eklund has one of the most unique journeys in New Zealand rugby. A Super Rugby champion, Māori All Blacks captain and one of the most respected hookers in the country, Kurt's path to the top was anything but conventional. He spent eight years working as a builder, and admits he never thought professional rugby was a realistic goal. After only starting two games for Auckland across four seasons, a devastating knee injury left him ready to walk away from rugby altogether. But after losing his mum to breast cancer, everything changed. Determined to make her proud, Kurt found a new purpose, reignited his love for the game, and eventually made his Super Rugby debut for the Blues at the age of 28. Some other parts that stood out for me in this episode were… - Why he never believed a professional rugby career was possible - How losing his mum completely changed his outlook on rugby and life - The story behind making and captaining the Māori All Blacks - Winning Super Rugby with the Blues after years of grinding away - Why he's heading to Japan and the next chapter for his young family - His passion for fishing, protecting New Zealand's oceans and life beyond rugby - Plenty more…

People in this episode

Host: Presented by Betcha

Guest: Kurt Eklund

Topics covered

Keywords

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Māori All Blacks, Blues

Places: New Zealand, Auckland

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