Although he largely operated in the shadow of All Black Richard McCaw, Johnny Leo’o has offered such value to the Crusaders that he was in demand for his services from both New Zealand and Samoa. Leo’o, who qualifies for Samoa through his family heritage, featured in eight international tournaments as a New Zealand Sevens representative in 2000 and 2001, prior to being included in the Crusaders for the first time the following year. That call up came after Leo’o had excelled playing in six matches for Bay of Plenty in the 2001 NPC, on loan from Canterbury. He was back with Canterbury following his first Crusade, and ended his career with the provinces with 71 appearances alongside his name. The 2006 season also provided the capable Marist-Albion openside flanker with his third Super rugby winner’s medal.