Q&A with Todd Clever: Captain America (Rugby of course!)

written by Vincent McLeod IV


SCRN - Todd Clever is the most recognizeable iconic figure on the Men's National Team for the USA Eagles. Forget his dazzling hair that everyone cannot stop talking about. This 6'4 (225lbs) Flanker knows the game inside and out! From Rugby in South Africa to New Zealand, USA (OMBAC) to Japan (Suntory), this man has revolutionzed the professional game in the eyes of American fans. SCRN caught up breifly with "Captain America" before his final departure to the Rugby World Cup.

Q&A with Captain America Todd Clever:

SCRN:  You have been dubbed in numerous articles as being one of the nicest guys in Rugby. However, we all know you are one of the fiercest competitors on the Rugby pitch. What advice do you have for those trying to figure out the game of Rugby from a mental approach?

TC:  Sport is often a mental game. When you are training by yourself, and your body wants to give up, that's when you need to push yourself to the next level. When you're on the pitch always give 100%. Off the field, enjoy the friendships you make, often with your opposition - which is one of the best parts of the game.

SCRN:  Not to many supporters know you are from the Southern California basin (Palm Springs). How are you received (with all of your experience) around the world as a top-class Rugby player? Did your early days in Rugby (palm Springs or elsewhere) contribute to who you are now as a player?

TC:  In my early days overseas I always had to prove myself, especially coming from America, but I was fortunately able to do that at all the different levels. I have been well received by the rugby community across the globe, and it is an honor representing the United States.

My early rugby days in Southern California definitely contributed to the player that I am today.

SCRN:  Japan over the weekend, Ireland, Russia, Australia and Italy in the RWC. You have to be thrilled right now. What can you tell your fans in the SoCal region about your emotions being involved in all of these matches?

TC:  Anytime you are able to represent your country in sport is an amazing feeling. And on top of that, with the RWC being the third largest sporting event in the world, is a massive highlight in one's lifetime.

SCRN:  We have a growing base of "smaller/younger" ruggers in the SoCal area with 55 clubs and over 3500 participants (SCYR). In the Collegiate area, we are growing teams sizes faster then most regions (LAU's). What advice can you give those who want to make it professionally like Todd Clever has done? How important is the mental side of Rugby?

TC:  Enjoy the sport, take your opportunities, and success will come. The higher the level you play at, the more important the mental side of rugby is.

SCRN:  Fun questions for Captain America himself:

Sushi in America or Japan? Japan

Favorite region of Japan? Okinawa

Belmont Shores or San Francisco Golden Gate Rugby? San Diego!

San Jose or Los Angeles? LA

Will Ferrel or Steve Carell? Will Ferrel

Favorite Workout method:Bench Press or big rope? Big Rope

Walmart or Target? Walmart

Justin Bieber or Justin Timberlake (fan submitted question to SCRN)? Justin Timberlake