Danny Barnes Interview
1. How do you think Munster did last season?
It was pretty disappointing to get knocked out of the Heineken cup the way we did but it was great to finish the season on a high and win the Magners final.
2. It was a great achievement for Munster winning the Magners League, how did that feel?
It was an unbelievable feeling! I was so happy to be in the squad, winning the final was a bonus. A month prior to the the final I couldn't even see myself being involved, so to get the call and the opportunity to play was an awesome feeling.
3. As a youngster playing rugby, what position did you play have you always been a centre/wing?
My very first position was a hooker under 5's! I played mostly in the centres but also played a bit as a flanker.
4. Whilst playing at Munster did any players help you improve your game to make you the player you are now?
It was easy to improve my game with so many experienced players around me. Getting to train with the likes of Ronan O'Gara was overwhelming at the start but I quickly settled in and started to pick up tips and advice. Getting to play with Maffs(Lifeimi Mafi) has been great for my game, he has helped me a lot. Just watching him as well as Earls and Howlett has definitely got me to where I am now.
5. Who was your rugby idol growing up?
Tana Umaga was my favourite player growing up, he was a world class winger and centre.
6. So far what has been your career highlight?
Starting for Munster in the Magners final and winning.
7. You scored 2 tries against the Ospreys. How was that to make a big stamp on the Magners League?
It was pretty awesome alright, it took a couple days to sink in what had happened. I am just grateful that I got the opportunity to play and be a part of such a great team.
8. So far in your career what is the best stadium you have played in?
It would have to be a packed Thomond Park. The atmosphere and buzz around the stadium is hard to beat.
9. Watching the Rugby World Cup, is that something you would aspire to play in? How do you think Ireland did?
Yeah I would aspire to play for Ireland some day, every kid growing up dreams to represent their country so hopefully I will get that opportunity in the future. I think they did pretty well, beating Australia was a fantastic achievement. It showed the world that Ireland can compete at the highest level and can beat any team on the day. They were unlucky to go out the way they did against Wales.
10. Who is the best player you have played with and the best player you have played against?
It's hard to pick who the best player I've played with is, I've been lucky enough to play with the likes of Ronan O'Gara, Paul O'Connell and Doug Howlett. If I had to pick it would be Paul, he is such an inspiring captain and great leader.
11. What do you hope to gain from your next 5 years playing rugby?
My main focus would be to continue developing my game and get as much experience from the the older lads as possible. I would also like to do well with Munster and hopefully win some more silverware. Playing for Ireland would also be something that I would aspire to.
Other Questions
Favourite holiday destination?
New York
Favourite food?
Anything mum cooks
Favourite movies?
Comedy, Will Ferrell movies.
Favourite band/artist?
Listen to anything, like Coldplay
Hero (who isn't in rugby)?
Tiger Woods
Favourite sport/team (which isn't in rugby)?
Rugby league and Manchester United
What do you do in your spare time when not playing rugby?
I like to read, watch movies and socialise with my friends. I'm trying to get into golf.
What do you think of talkingrugbyunion.co.uk?
I am quite new to it but it seems to be a great site for the last rugby news and match commentaries.
Finally “ if you had a message to say to your fans who have been supporting Munster week in week out, what would you say to all of them?
I would just like to thank them for all their support and encouragement, it means so much to all the players and management.
