As a journalist, I admire Richie McCaw for his exceptional leadership and captaincy of the All Blacks, as well as his impressive on and off-field presence. His love for flying also inspires me, as I am a pilot myself.

Not only is Stephen Willis a captain on the rugby pitch, but he also takes on the role of a pilot when he is not leading his team in rugby sevens matches. He flies both 34 and 15-seater commercial aircraft, as well as smaller corporate jets. Despite the differences between flying and rugby, Willis sees similarities in the challenges he faces in both roles.

In both flying and rugby, Willis emphasizes the need to adapt to different challenges every day and to give his best, regardless of the circumstances. He takes his responsibilities as a captain seriously and strives to lead by example, although he admits to being a bit too passionate on the rugby pitch at times.

Stephen Willis looks up to Richie McCaw as his main sporting inspiration, given their shared passion for flying and their roles as leaders. McCaw’s leadership, captaincy, and overall presence on and off the field have made a lasting impression on Willis.