Family has been the thread that’s run through Matt Proctor’s rugby life.
Growing up in the Wellington suburb of Hataitai, Matt followed in the sprigmarks of his older brother James and father Phil, the game seemingly built into his DNA.
Phil, of Maori descent, was a grizzled and respected tight head prop who represented his province 67 times from the mid-1980s to mid-1990s, a builder by trade who held mythical status in Wellington club rugby due to his penchant for winning Jubilee Cups.
Behind the scenes Matt’s mother Sandra provided ever-present support and encouragement as her three sons quickly established themselves as talented sportsmen.
“There are three children, an older brother [James], myself and my younger brother [Billy] and we’re a pretty big rugby family. We all play and mum and dad are both big supporters,” Matt told C:60 ahead of the 2018 Investec Super Rugby season.
“Both my parents have been big influences on me. Obviously there was the old man with his rugby background, he played a lot and is pretty experienced, so for all three of us kids growing up he was there and always our biggest critic.
“Mum as well, she did a lot for us whether it was taking us to trainings and games, she has always been there whatever we’ve needed anything for our rugby she’s been there to provide it.”
All three of the Proctor boys have found success on the rugby field, James as a renowned goal kicking first five at senior club level and Billy as a multi-skilled utility back good enough to make the Wellington Lions in 2017.
“Dad was a tight head prop, so I’m not sure [what he could teach to us as backs], but he taught my brother how to kick and he’s a first five,” Matt laughs. “I’m not too sure where dad got his skills. He used to tell us he was a sprinter back in the day, but whether that’s true or not? I’m not too sure.”
Whatever the case, there is no doubt Matt inherited fast-twitch fibres from somewhere because he was good enough to represent New Zealand at youth level as a hurdler during his time at St Pats Town.
“Back in school athletics was pretty big so they would get all the rugby boys to try out for the team. I did a bit of hurdles and sprinting which was good for my rugby,” he said. “In 2008 I went to Australia for the Youth Olympics which was pretty cool, representing New Zealand in hurdles. I didn’t do too well, but it was awesome being around all those other athletes.”
It was also when he began to realise his athletic talents set him apart from the crowd.
“When I made the New Zealand Schools team in 2010 that made me realise this could be a pathway for me. It opened a few doors around Wellington and that’s when I started thinking it could be a career.”
Since then he’s played 46 times for the Hurricanes and represented New Zealand Maori since 2013.
Whatever happens it’s a safe bet Proctor’s success on the rugby field will continue to be shared with his family.
“We [the brothers] are all pretty tight. We hang out every week together, whether it’s chilling, or having a feed, otherwise we’re down the park having a run around.
“I mainly just like to connect with the boys away from rugby. When I’m not training, I play a bit of PlayStation and basketball, even though I’m not very good I get outside with the boys whenever I can.”
The coming season shapes as a big one for Matt Proctor as he looks to shake off an injury hit 2017 and realise his full potential.
“Last year I missed quite a bit through injury want to get back out there and just play some footy in front of our fans, my family and at home. Hopefully we can repeat the success of 2016.”