There’s something re-energising about coming back to where it all began — and for lock Matt Philip, playing for the NSW Waratahs in his home state, feels like closing a circle.
Having played a wealth of international rugby, Philip, 28, is back home in Sydney, amongst family, friends and the club which first set his sights on professional rugby.
“The Waratahs were the first team which really made me want to become a professional rugby player. I have distinct memories of being a young kid watching games at the old Sydney Football Stadium,” Philip said.
Philip is a 28 cap Wallaby. He will also captain of the Waratahs for Super Rugby AUS that starts on Friday night against the Western Force at Warringah Rugby Park.
He didn’t arrive at rugby by default.
“When I was younger, I wanted to be a professional surfer. I grew up near the beach and my dad surfed, but eventually rugby started to take over,” he said.
As Philip grew, so did his passion for the sport and the desire to strive for excellence and compete. Philip’s overseas stints changed his mindset, and skill sets around the sport.
“All the competitions have quite different DNA,” Philip said.
“The Top 14 competition is very contact-heavy — they love the lineout maul. “So, as captain I’m eager to bring that experience back to the Waratahs.
“Japan is super athletic, skilful and fast. So, I had to be diligent with preparation and recovery. Super Rugby sits between the two: physical, but with exciting pace and talent.”
That range of experience is exactly what the Waratahs are counting on — front-row grit combined with match-sharp athleticism.
The Super Rugby AUS Waratahs squad Philip has joined is a mix of young Academy, Shute Shield and Super Rugby players.
“There’s a fresh enthusiasm in the group,” Philip said.
“A lot of the boys are from the Academy and Shute Shield; so, it’s a great chance for them to put their case forward.
“Trainings have been super high energy. They’re keeping me young, especially with the dynamic gym work, and it’s been really beneficial for me.”
Leadership matters to Philip because it’s where his own pathway began.
“I came through the Waratahs Academy system,” he said.
“I was captain of the Waratahs under 20’s team when we won in Canberra.
“It means a lot to captain this team. I never got to play for the Waratahs top team before; so, to do that now is a huge deal for me and my family.”
Why return now? The answer is straightforward for Philip.
“I’d been in discussions before, but when Dan McKellar [Waratahs Head Coach] and Joe Schmidt [Wallabies Head Coach] reached out, I was super pumped,” he said.
“I’m a Sydney boy — my family and friends are here. I’m passionate about the club doing well, and it’s important for Australian rugby because this place is rugby-crazy.”
On a day-to-day level Philip’s aims are clear: to bring standards and lead the next wave of forwards.
“It’s a good opportunity to help the younger lads and set standards at training every day — that’s something I take seriously,” he said.
Off the field, Philip keeps his routine low-key.
“I love the beach. I love swimming down there, and I’m into golf at the moment.
“I’m terrible [at golf] and avoid playing with the boys who have much lower handicaps, but I practice. So, when team golf day comes, I can be in the mix.”
Where: Warringah Rugby Park, Sydney
When: Friday, 12 September 2025
Kick-off: 7.30 pm (AEST)
The game will be televised LIVE and on demand via Stan Sport - The Home of Rugby and the Rugby.com.au Youtube Channel
