I first started going to the gym when I was 15 years old as part of my school's Rugby strength and conditioning program. Although I learnt the basic fundamentals of lifting weights there I never really saw any progressive gains in my physique and often felt discouraged that those who were genetically predisposed to putting on muscle developed and maintained sizeable and impressive physiques for the sport whilst I flailed in my attempts to put on weight.
By the age of 18 I had suffered a season-ending ACL tear in my knee requiring reconstructive surgery and a year away from the game. I lacked confidence on the field due to my small stature and made the resolution to rectify this in my time away by putting on size whilst sidelined with injury. A year after returning to the field I suffered another ACL tear, this time to my another knee, leaving me to face the operating table for a second time. Prematurely ending my Rugby career at the age of 20.
It was at this time that my focus shifted to bodybuilding. I became inspired by the fitness model physiques achieved by the likes of Marco Pietrowski, Greg Plitt, James Ellis and Rob Riches.

Bodybuilding appeals to me because by its very nature it rewards those who commit themselves 100% to their training pursuit. The focus placed into a 1 hour training session alone is not conducive to effective results. It requires a 24 hour commitment in which training, nutrition and recovery are integrated as one to develop and craft the ideal physique. After suffering from injuries caused by the variability inherent in Rugby I like the notion that I can pre-determine the final result and be in complete control of my destiny. I am fully responsible for the results I achieve based on my actions on a day-to-day basis. Every meal eaten (6 a day), every hour slept and every rep and set performed all contribute little by little to a greater goal that I could envisage and in the future to drive me.