A hooker who played 132 tests for the All Blacks, winning two World Cups and earning a reputation as one of the greatest players in his position.
Keven Mealamu is a renowned former New Zealand rugby union footballer, celebrated for his exceptional skills as a hooker for the Blues in Super Rugby, Auckland in the National Provincial Championship, and the New Zealand national team. He is a two-time Rugby World Cup winner, having played a crucial role in the 2011 and 2015 championships.
Born on 20 March 1979, Mealamu is the grandson of Samoan immigrants and was raised in Tokoroa. His father, a bodybuilding champion, worked at the local timber mill. The family later moved to Auckland due to the decline of the timber industry.
Mealamu attended Aorere College, where his brother and former Manu Samoa player Luke Mealamu currently works as a social worker. During his school days, he played as a flanker for New Zealand Under-16s and New Zealand Schools before switching to hooker in 1998.
Mealamu made his provincial debut for Auckland in 1999 against North Harbour. He first played for the Blues in 2000 and had a stint with the Chiefs in 2002, the same year he debuted for the All Blacks.
In 2003, Mealamu was part of the Blues team that won the Super 12 title, the third for the franchise. He also made a significant contribution to the start of the All Blacks' 2006 Tri Nations campaign with two tries against the Wallabies during the first match.
Mealamu captained the Blues through their 2006 Super 14 campaign but was forced to relinquish the captaincy in 2007 due to his commitments to the All Blacks. In 2014, he made his 150th appearance for the Blues, becoming the first player in Super Rugby history to make 150 appearances for one team.
Aside from his illustrious rugby career, Mealamu's personal life is marked by his strong family ties and sense of community. He worked as an apprentice signwriter after finishing school, demonstrating his commitment to having a backup plan in case his rugby career didn't work out.
Mealamu's family has been a constant source of support throughout his life. His brother, Luke Mealamu, is a former Manu Samoa player and currently works as a social worker at Aorere College, their alma mater.
Keven Mealamu's remarkable career has left an indelible mark on the world of rugby. His dedication, perseverance, and exceptional skill have inspired countless young players and cemented his place as one of the greatest hookers in rugby history.
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