Profile: John Ulugia

What does your role involve?

I work on Tuesdays and Wednesdays with the Radford sports team in two main roles – managing the RadVan and as a Rugby and Oztag coach for students in Year 2 through to Year 12. It has been great getting to know the students and I thoroughly enjoy making the coffees, hot chocolates and chai lattes for College staff and visitors.

What are the highlights of your role?

The main highlight of my role is working with the Radford sports team – it is a great group of people who are so passionate about their roles. As the RadVan barista, it is seeing the sheer enjoyment on a staff member’s face when they see that the RadVan is open, and they can get their coffee lift for the morning. And as a coach, it is having the opportunity to mentor the students, share my own knowledge, and build upon the student’s excitement and energy – this is most definitely a highlight.

Where were you working before you came to Radford?

I lived in France with my wife and three kids (two girls and a boy) for just under ten years playing as a professional Rugby player. Prior to France, I played with the Brumbies and NSW Waratahs.

Can you tell us a little more about your background and the path that led you to your current role?

I have been playing Rugby for 18 years. I spent eight years in Super Rugby before moving to France for nine-and-a-half years, where I played for ASM Clermont Auvergne, a French Top 14 Rugby Club. I loved every step of the way. It gave my family and I the opportunity to experience another culture.

Having only recently moved back from France, I started working with Dom Constanzo at the Barton Grocer as a barista. As soon as he was aware that I was talking to several Canberra schools about coaching, he immediately connected me with the Radford sport team and the rest is history.

What most appealed to you about working at Radford?

The opportunity to get involved in school-based coaching and to be part of building the Radford Rugby program. I believe Radford can become very competitive in the ACT Junior Rugby Competition.

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

I enjoy playing golf; however, I wouldn’t say I am good at it. I also enjoy spending time with my family and going on holidays with them.

I enjoy reading articles and information produced by Wim Hof – he is known as The Iceman and is a Dutch motivational speaker and extreme athlete noted for his ability to withstand low temperatures.

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