Simon Mannering - Warrior

by Angus Gillies, Simon Mannering

Simon Mannering is one of elite sport's great enigmas. Since 2005 he has been a regular fixture in the Warriors and Kiwis rugby league teams and has captained both sides. He has the passion and drive of Brad Thorn and the consistency of Richie McCaw. He regularly leads tackle counts, always has the respect of both team mates and opponents and confounds team doctors by playing through pain and illness. He is, in short, the ultimate warrior, who will always put the good of the team before his own wishes and ambitions. He has played close to 300 games in the NRL, one of the most taxing and physically demanding competitions in world sport, but very few people know anything about him. He shuns the celebrity lifestyle, is never implicated in controversy and hardly ever does interviews. But his career is a blueprint for how young people with only average natural abilities (his words) can force their way to the top. Mannering was not a sporting prodigy. He often, perhaps too modestly, describes his early athletic talents as mediocre. But he had an unflagging work ethic towards training and when he came across good mentors he clung to them for dear life. In his autobiography, he talks about his transition from skinny white rugby-playing AC/DC fan from Nelson College to life at the Warriors rugby league club in the hip hop heart of Auckland. He shares personal stories about the people he met along the way who helped and inspired him and the lessons he took from them. Always a realist, he recounts his early efforts in a sport he didn't know or understand with unflinching, hilarious and sometimes awkward honesty. Those who know him best also give their insight into a New Zealand sportsperson who, when he eventually hangs up his boots, will be remembered as one of the greats.

232 pages, Hardcover

Published January 1, 2018

About the author

Angus Gillies is the author of the Ruatoria Killings series of non-fiction investigations. He has worked as a journalist and producer at TV3 for 20 years, and has written biographies of Matthew Ridge, Adam Parore, Justin Marshall and John Rowles.

From Amazon

Reviews

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

More realistically 3.5 stars, but because it’s Simon I rounded up.

Some great insight into both his Warriors and Kiwis careers, particularly some of the controversies we’ve seen play out in the media. He’s open and honest, and it’s written very authentically - almost too authentic (laidback language is great, but there’s a bit of repetition).

Loved the comments from teammates, coaches and his partner. We all know Simon doesn’t blow his own trumpet, so it was good to have those snippets in there from those who provide context to his efforts and dedication.

A must for all Warriors and Kiwis fans.

[Talia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved watching simon play, so was great to get his perspective on the game & the team - and to see how humble he is too. Bloody legend & great read