Get to know Nic

He’s a seasoned rugby union player and key figure in Australian rugby, has built a remarkable career defined by perseverance, skill, and leadership. His journey in rugby began at a young age, where his passion for the sport was fostered by a supportive community and family. Nic’s career took off when he joined the Brumbies, where he quickly established himself as a standout scrum-half. His talent and dedication earned him a spot on the Wallabies, representing Australia on the international stage.

In 2023, Nic signed with Western Force, marking a new chapter for him and the family. Despite the demands of professional rugby, Nic finds his greatest joy in being a father. He and his wife Melissa are parents to three children: Sonny, Leo, and their youngest, Vin. “Being a dad has been the most rewarding experience of my life. It’s made me more grounded and given me a different perspective on everything,” Nic shares.

Balancing his rugby career with fatherhood, Nic cherishes the moments he spends with his children, whether it’s playing at home or watching them grow and develop their own interests. The lessons he’s learned on the rugby field, such as teamwork, resilience, and discipline, are qualities he strives to instil in his children.

Melissa, his wife, is the cornerstone of their family, providing unwavering support and strength, especially when Nic’s career takes him away from home. “Melissa’s ability to manage everything, from the kids to our home, while I’m on the road is nothing short of amazing,” Nic says with admiration.

Looking ahead, Nic is excited about the future, both in his rugby career and in his role as a father. He hopes to continue making an impact on and off the field, while also being present for the important milestones in his children’s lives. As he prepares for the next phase of his career, Nic remains focused on what matters most—his family.

QTell us about your beginnings in Rugby and your family life, were there any role models in the community that helped support your sporting ambitions?

AI didn't start playing rugby until I was 12. My first taste of footy was touch footy. I have 4 sisters who all love sports, and throughout my childhood, we played mixed touch together. My first role models were and still are my parents. They were both very good athletes in their sports, very committed, leading by example, and they would sacrifice a lot of their time to get us to all our sports throughout the week and support us all. It was a very busy and loving upbringing, something I aim to give my 3 boys.

QWith three growing boys, life must be pretty hectic. How do you find ways to spend quality time with each of your boys?

AIt is one of the most challenging things and something we constantly talk about – how we can get some quality 1v1 time with each of our boys. When I'm home, it is easier to manage time, but it is really difficult when I'm away, and it's something we certainly notice they crave.

QAre there any special traditions or routines you have with your boys that you look forward to each day or week?

ASport is a constant in our household, with the boys eagerly participating in activities like run club, jujitsu, nippers, Aus kick, rugby, and swimming each week. They love being outdoors and have really taken a shine to the pump tracks in Perth lately!

QLast year, you moved the family from the east coast to join the Western Force. How has the transition been for everyone?

AThe boys love Perth. Myself and Mel have moved a lot over the last 10 years and have enjoyed it, but now that the kids are a bit older, it is a bit challenging. You worry about how they will handle it and how it will affect them. However, Perth has been amazing and suits the boys and our family so well. It's a very active place with a great climate for being outdoors, and the people in Perth, especially the Western Force, have been so welcoming and accommodating. It has been such an enjoyable year for us as a family.

QAre the boys still into Rugby and being like dad? What other community sports and activities do they play?

AWhen asked what they want to be when they grow up, it’s always “Rugby Player." Despite exposure to other sports like soccer, AFL, jujitsu, nippers, gymnastics, and athletics, their passion for rugby is unmatched at this stage.

Now lets hear from Mel

QWhat are some of the special moments you’ve observed between Nic and the boys.

ALately I’ve loved watching their daily FaceTime catchups with Nic away with rugby so he’s missing out on a lot of day to day family stuff. The boys get so excited when the phone rings, they want to share their day, what happened at school, how fast they rode at the pump track, simple things like that. Seeing their little faces light up when Nic pops up on the screen and the genuine joy in their voices as they share their day is so sweet and special. They miss him so much and will fight over who gets to sleep with Dad when he gets home. They stick to him like glue.