The Q&A series on the blog is fortunate to feature footballer Nikko Boxall. Nikko currently plays for Viborg FF in Denmark and made his debut for the New Zealand All Whites this year.
Tell us a little bit about yourself
My name is Nikko Daniel Boxall & I’m 26 years old. I was born & raised in Auckland. I have a bachelors degree in economics from Northwestern University in Chicago, USA. Currently I play football in Denmark for Viborg FF, and also, made my debut for the All Whites earlier this year.
What is your proudest achievement?
I’m not someone who dwells on past achievements as I always feel like some of the best days are always ahead of me, but I guess we as people like to identify ourselves with some of those things, so in that case it could be graduating from a top university in the USA and also representing NZ in football. However, I feel most proud about where I am today, doing what I love, working on being the best human being I can be, and striving to improve everyday.
What is your biggest regret/lesson?
Maybe I wish I had learnt Samoan as a kid or I could say I regret losing my kiwi accent for a year or so back in college, but in my life, I honestly have no regrets, as i wouldn’t be the person I am today without each decision and experience. So maybe the biggest lesson I’ve learnt is that everything happens for a reason.
What advice would you give aspiring athletes?
Growing up, I remember having the quote, “hard work will always beat talent, unless talent works hard”, stuck to our fridge at home, and if there’s one thing I believe in, it’s hard work. So, my advice is be the hardest worker in the room, always be willing to learn, never give up, and last but not least, enjoy each moment when you step out on the field.
What would you be doing if you weren’t playing football?
If I wasn’t playing football, I’d either be dancing, starting my own business, or traveling.
Who do you look up to and why?
My siblings – because one has overcome some big obstacles and come out the other side smiling, showing me true strength and character, and that through tough times, often something better and bigger is born. While the other was somebody that showed me a pathway and allowed me to see what I could accomplish before I truly believed in myself.
What are your hobbies/interests outside of football?
My hobbies include, but definitely not limited to, music, food and personal development. I’d say it’s very rare for me to go without music for more than a few hours in a day, and obviously food is life. Also, I don’t believe you can be successful and happy in life without being a good human being, and there are always areas we can improve so would say I have spent some time on that and continue to do so.
Plans and aspirations for the future?
I aspire to do great things in my life and don’t believe in putting limits on myself, so right now my plan is to see where hard work and dedication can take me in chasing my passions. And while doing so, to keep an open mind, and continue learning about football, life and everything in between.
Photo supplied by Nikko Boxall
Beyond the Mark 