The Breakers have been working hard this week in preparation for tonight's do or die game against the Melbourne Tigers and one person that has also been working tirelessly to get them in prime condition for tonight's game and the last four seasons is their strength & conditioning coach Steve Buckley from Ngāti Rangitihi.
Steve's an athlete, he's also the strength & conditioning coach for the Breakers.
He says, "this is my fourth season so lucky enough to have three rings, three championships which is pretty cool"
Running speed & agility sessions are only one part of Steve's role with the three time champions.
Steve says, "A big part of my role with the Breakers is managing their training loads making sure the guys are fresh come game day, which is probably the most important thing"
Steve's sports history is in decathlon, and although he is still competing in the sport, finishing 2nd in the Nationals this year, his passion is to help foster current and future athletes reach their prime both physically and mentally, a drive which has also led to starting up his own business as well.
While his work with the Breakers has had great success, it's his passion for helping the athletes that speaks volumes.
“I just enjoy seeing athletes achieve their goals, or make teams or just perform at their optimum i guess"
That’s exactly what we're hoping for from the Breakers tonight.