The Converts: Changing Codes

by Bob Howitt, John Deaker

Kiwis used to define ourselves as either League or Union supporters - never both. Not any more. In the rarified world of professional sport, the divisions between two traditional rival codes have been blown away. top players have switched in the past - acrimoniously and mostly from 'amateur' Union to 'professional' league. Now the traffic is constant, both ways and highly lucrative. In a revealing look at the loyalties, the lure of the big dollar and the life-changing experiences of top flight players have changed allegiance, Bob Howitt and John Deaker capture the moment, the men and the memories.Featured players from both sides of the tasman will include Vainga tuigamala, Wendell Sailor, Lote tuqiri, Marc Ellis, Matthew Ridge, John Gallaher, Matt Rogers. With in-depth interviews providing new insights and background information that puts the players and their decisions under the spotlight, the book is a must read for sports fans who find themselves watching the All Blacks and the Kiwis, and cheering for the warriors as well as their Super 14 team. Key selling the first serious book for the 21st century fans of the wider game of rugby, in both its forms, that recognises the new audience.

239 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 1, 2011

About the author

Bob Howitt is one of New Zealand's most celebrated and prolific rugby journalists and authors. He has written 16 books on the game, including the three volumes of Rugby Greats.
He has collaborated with famous players, coaches and, most recently, a referee on successful rugby biographies. Among the subjets he has worked with are Sid Going, Bryan Williams, Frank Bunce and Walter Little, Laurie Mains, Graham Henry and Paddy O'Brien. In 2004 he co-authored All Black Magic which celebrated 100 years of All Black tests.