All the little things make the whole

Highlanders hooker Liam Coltman at training at Logan Park yesterday.PHOTO: GREGOR RICHARDSON
Highlanders hooker Liam Coltman at training at Logan Park yesterday.PHOTO: GREGOR RICHARDSON
The more things change, the more they stay the same for Liam Coltman.

It may be Alhambra-Union, Otago, Highlanders, even the All Blacks, but to Coltman it is just about doing the basics well.

It has been like that for the hooker ever since he made his debut for the franchise in 2013.

On that day, he was playing in the front row with Ma'afu Fia and Tony Woodcock against the Chiefs.

Woodcock has long since retired and Fia is plying his trade in Wales.

Front rowers have come and largely gone since Coltman (27) made his debut. There have been 17 props in the Highlanders colours since Coltman first wore the jersey. Anyone remember Matias Diaz and Pingi Tala'apitaga?

Coltman, though, has stayed around and has been a big presence for the the Highlanders this year.

With hookers Ash Dixon and Greg Pleasants-Tate going down with serious injuries before the season kicked off, the onus has been put on Coltman.

Not that he has been complaining.

``I've been enjoying my footy. The team has been going really well lately, which helps,'' he said.

``It's always good to get a fresh perspective on everything. All the coaches here [Highlanders] have been awesome and then you get into the ABs and they push you even further.

``It's just every little thing that helps you. Right from the bottom to the top. It is just about working hard on everything, really ... you just have to balance everything.''

Coltman is a committed player who just loves every minute of the working week.

``I'm enjoying starting and getting plenty of minutes out on the park. Guys are pushing for positions all the time. It is good to get a start but in this team you have always got to work hard.''

Lineout throwing was always a work-on but he had not done anything different in training this season.

``It is just the same stuff, video footage and all that. But it is about being really hard on myself and also the lineout jumpers and making everything work together.

``From the outside, people think it is the hooker's fault most of the time but it is a contribution of everybody. Got to get a good lift and jump and put the ball where it is supposed to be, so that is us putting it all together.''

Coltman made his All Black debut last year, getting on against Italy in Rome for just over 15 minutes. He loved the experience and was eager to get involved with the visit of the British and Irish Lions this year.

``It would be great to be a part of. It doesn't come round every year. It is a great opportunity.''

He had not heard from All Blacks coach Steve Hansen but to him it was just about playing week in, week out and the rest would take care of itself.

Coltman has signed a contract extension this season that will keep him with Otago and the Highlanders until 2019.

 

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