You’ve burst onto the scene this year and most people wouldn’t know a lot about you. Tell us a bit about your rugby background/career. Where have you played etc.
- Eastwood boy through and through having played juniors there.
- Newington 1st XV – Years 10, 11 and 12
- GPS 1st XV and Australian Schoolboys Year 12 (2005)
- NSW Waratah Academy 2006
- Waratahs 2007
A whirlwind first year at the Waratahs then?
Yeah, it’s all happened really quickly and I never would have imagined I’d climb the ladder so fast. I’m definitely enjoying the ride though!
Obviously it hasn’t been the Waratahs most successful year but how have you enjoyed it?
It’s been a really tough year for the team and we haven’t had the results we’d obviously like. Through all the tough times though, I’ve learned an enormous amount, both from a team perspective and an individual one. It’s been a very steep learning curve in all respects and I’ve learned an incredible amount from the senior players about attitude in adversity. I’ve also learnt a great deal personally which will stand me in good stead for future years and I have no doubt the Waratahs.
You’ve been switching between fullback and wing lately - what is your preferred position?
I don’t really have a preference between the two. Even at schoolboy level and in other representative teams, I’ve switched between both fullback and wing. I enjoy playing in both so am not too fussed.
Rugby highlight so far?
I have two real highlights so far in my short rugby career.
- Playing in the world championship winning Australian Under 19’s in 2006 and scoring a try in the final – unforgettable
- Scoring my first Super 14 try against the Crusaders in 2007
Most competitive team mate?
I’d have to say Tom Carter.
Toughest opponent?
The toughest team I’ve played against so far has been the Brumbies. The toughest individual opponent I’ve faced is the Crusaders No. 8, Moses Tuialii.
What do you like to do away from rugby?
I like to spend time with my non-rugby friends that I don’t get much of a chance to catch up with during rugby season as the calendar’s pretty full. I also love surfing so I try and spend as much time during the off-season in summer getting out in the water whilst rugby isn’t too full on. Thankfully rugby is a winter code so I get to surf at the right time of year…..not one for the cold water!
All the best in future representative selections for