Downtime with... Jacob Umaga - "Best player in my family? I have to say Uncle Tana"
Rugby World|November 2024
The Benetton fly-half on Italy, basketball and talented kinsmen
Joe Robinsom
Downtime with... Jacob Umaga - "Best player in my family? I have to say Uncle Tana"

WHAT WAS your first job? Not my first job but when I was on loan in New Zealand playing for Auckland, after the ITM Cup and before the regular season, I worked at an estate agent handing out marketing leaflets. I would cycle around Auckland posting the leaflets through people's doors across the city.

Who's the best-dressed team-mate you've ever had? Not being biased but I've got to say my clothing brand business partner and Benetton team-mate Paolo Odogwu, obviously.

And the worst-dressed team-mate? Oh, Tom Willis at Wasps. He would pair trainers and jeans that never worked. He would also always wear tight-fitting T-shirts as a big guy. It wasn't the best look for someone so young.

Who's the best rugby player in your family? Bloody hell, there's a lot of options... I have to say my uncle Tana (Umaga), don't I? Although I've heard stories that my dad Mike was very, very good but was playing at a time where you didn't get the full opportunity.

This story is from the November 2024 edition of Rugby World.

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This story is from the November 2024 edition of Rugby World.

Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.