Legacy

Kerr begins with a description of a rugby match between Wales and the All Blacks. The match took place in 2010 in Dunedin, a city in the South Island of New Zealand. Kerr sets the scene, describing the cold weather, the pre-match rituals of the coaches and players, and the significance of the All Blacks’ iconic black jersey. The author emphasizes the importance of the black jersey as a symbol of excellence and national pride for New Zealanders. He describes how the players put on their jerseys and transform into focused athletes ready for the game.

Kerr then narrates the match itself, highlighting the player Dan Carter and his outstanding performance, which helped lead to the All Blacks’ victory. Kerr provides a detailed account of the post-match activities, including the team’s private debriefing session. A key moment in the chapter occurs when Kerr describes two senior players sweeping the locker room floor after the match. This act of humility, referred to as “sweeping the sheds” (7), becomes a central theme of the chapter. Kerr explains that this practice exemplifies the All Blacks’ philosophy of personal responsibility and discipline.

The author then draws parallels between the All Blacks’ approach and those of other successful coaches and teams, such as Vince Lombardi and the Green Bay Packers, John Wooden and the UCLA Bruins, and Bill Walsh and the San Francisco 49ers.