Damian McKenzie's Signature Smile
Damian McKenzie, the All Blacks fly-half, has captivated rugby fans not only with his exceptional skills but also with his unique pre-kick routine—a signature smile. This quirky habit, introduced by sports psychologist David Galbraith, helps McKenzie relax and focus before crucial goal kicks. McKenzie's smile has become a beloved ritual among fans, symbolizing his calm and collected approach under pressure.
The Journey to Mastery
McKenzie's journey to becoming a top-tier kicker involved more than just a smile. After a successful stint with Japan's Suntory Sungoliath, he returned to New Zealand with a renewed perspective on speed and fitness. He shared, “Playing in Japan taught me the importance of an up-tempo game and maintaining peak fitness levels. These lessons have been crucial in my recent performances with the Chiefs and the All Blacks”.
Embracing the Shot Clock
Despite his usual composure, McKenzie faced a setback recently when he was timed out during a penalty attempt. The incident occurred during a tightly contested match against England, where McKenzie missed the 60-second window for his kick, leading to a penalty against the All Blacks.
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