Chris Pennell Interview

Thanks to Chris for doing the interview and a big thank you to Big Red Management.

1. How is the Worcester team feeling towards the start of the Aviva Premiership?

Everyone is hugely looking forward to the games starting.  It has been well over a year since the majority of us played in the top-flight and we cannot wait to be tested against the best players in the country.

2. Is there a big difference between championship and the premiership except the quality in players?

There is a big difference in quite a few areas.  The main area for me is the crowd numbers, although the noise levels at some of the grounds made up for it!  I find it surprising more people are not watching Championship rugby, as the games are very entertaining and usually high scoring.

3. How does it feel being the Worcester Warriors captain?

It is a huge privilege to lead the boys out.  I am lucky in that we have a number of natural leaders in the squad so I am never short of good advice and help if I need it.  The challenge of taking the club forward is one that really excites me.

4. Who is your rugby hero and why?

It has to be Jason Robinson simply because of his running ability.  He was just one of those players that made crowds rise to their feet every time he got the ball in his hands.

5. What has been your career highlight?

I have had quite a few highlights so far but I think the feeling after the double leg final last season will take some beating, the feeling of illation and relief was something special.

6. What tips would you give to young rugby players?

I think that core skills are the most important attribute to work on.  Practicing passing, catching and tackling technique will lay a good foundation for the rest of your game.  Physical size and strength will come as you get older, don't start weights training too young.  If you want to get stronger, use bodyweight exercises.  Most importantly, just enjoy playing rugby and having fun with your mates!

7. Who is the fastest player you have played against/with?

The fastest player I played with was Aisea Havili, the Tongan flyer!  The way he ran was effortless.  He used to annoy me in fitness training by leaving us for dead on the start of runs then walking over the finish line as we came plodding in at the same time!  Fastest opposition player would probably be Topsy Ojo.  There might be quicker players, but he stands out for me as being pretty lightening.  I would still back Aisea over 100m though ¦

8. Who is the toughest player you have played with?

I think that this had to be given to Aleki Latui.  The man is incredible ¦  I don't know what holds him together but whatever it is, I want some.  I think he has maybe missed 1 game through injury the whole time I have known him at Worcester.

9. Who is the toughest player you have played against?

The toughest player is a little leftfield to be honest.  He's relatively unknown and plays for Bucharesti Oaks but Jeff Makapelu made my life hell back in 2009.

10. How did you start playing rugby?

I began to play rugby, aged 9, because I had nothing to do on a Sunday morning in winter!  I was all about tennis and cricket but luckily friends asked me to join them at my local club.  It was only ever rugby I was interested in after that day.

11. What do you hope to do after rugby?

I have no set plans as to what I want to do.  I am about to start an Open University degree in business this spring, which I am hoping will open a few doors for me when I do finish.  I would really love to run an awesome café/deli/bistro somewhere one day.

12. What is the best try you have ever scored?

It would probably be one from school aged about 15.  I can remember every movement I made for some reason?  I have a pretty vague memory of most my games to be honest but this one has stuck with me.

13. How was it playing with chris latham?

It was great for many reasons but the main reason for me was to learn from him.  I feel my game has come on a long way from picking up on how he played.  He had a big influence on my kicking game and my defensive positioning.  An amazing mentor to have!

14. If you hadn't been a rugby player what would you have been doing now?

I would like to say another sport professionally, but I would only be kidding myself!  Probably earning megabucks in the city as the world's best tea-boy?

Other Questions

Favourite holiday destination? Undiscovered as yet ¦  There are too many places I want to see!

Favourite food? Has to be Nandos.

Favourite movies? Shawshank, Forrest Gump, The Hangover, Anchor Man.

Favourite band/artist? I like too much of a mix to have a definite favourite.

Hero (who isn't in rugby)? My sister-in-law, Kirsty Fulton.

Favourite sport/team (which isn't in rugby)? Big fan of Lleyton Hewitt in tennis, Stuart Broad in cricket and team would be The Dallas Mavericks.

What do you do in your spare time when not playing rugby? I like to get out on the golf course as much as possible.  Otherwise you can find me doing DIY or sleeping on the couch!

What do you think of talkingrugbyunion.co.uk? I think it's a great way to keep up-to-date with the latest news in World rugby.

 

Finally  if you had a message to say to your fans who have been supporting the Worcester week in week out, what would you say to all of them?

Firstly, thank you for your support over the years, believe me when I say it is hugely appreciated!  Secondly, we intend to repay your faith and make you incredibly proud this season and over the coming years.