Talking Rugby Union gave some questions to Queensland Reds Centre Anthony Fainga'a
1. How are you feeling about the Reds chances this year?
We have made it through some tough matches on top, and hopefully we can have more wins against the upcoming teams. But we still have a lot of work to do and I am focusing on one week at a time.
2. How was it breaking into the Australia Squad?
It was amazing; I was so excited when I got the call from Robbie Deans. I was with my parents and they were both crying and calling everyone they knew. It was a dream come true.
3. What lessons did you learn from playing at the brumbies with some of the best players in the world?
I learnt so much from the guys in the Brumbies Squad, players like George Smith were grounded and hard working, which is something I like to think I have taken with me with my game and career.
4. Who was your rugby idol growing up?
George Smith, so hard working and such a great guy.
5. So far what has been your career highlight so far?
Playing with my twin Saia against the All Blacks in Hong Kong, it is something we have always aspired to do.
6. Would you ever consider moving to Europe to play rugby?
Absolutely, at the right time for me it would be something I would consider. Our Grand mother actually has relatives in the UK so it would be great to meet them.
7. Are there any players that impress you from the Northern Hemisphere teams?
Jonny Wilkinson “ he is so cool under pressure take the final of the 2003 RWC that field goal. WOW!
8. Are you looking forward to the British and Irish lions coming to Australia?
For sure, having players of that calibre on Australian sure for such a big hit out will be amazing, would love to be part of it. But have to get through the Super Rugby tournament before I think of those games.
9. Who has been the toughest player you have played against so far?
By far my Brother Colby, it has taken a lot of mental preparation to take on my youngest brother. We are so close so having to go up against him as "the enemy has been really tough, plus he is a great player, and being that I am older I can't have him show me up.
10. How do you rate Australia's chances in the world cup?
Hopefully we will give the other counties some tough contests and the whole squad will be fit and we have some great depth in all the positions. In saying that, we all have a long way to go till Wallaby selection is in the mix.
11. What is the greatest try you have scored?
My try during the Under 19th World Cup Final against New Zealand to win the game “ by far the best. But every try is special.
Other Questions
Favourite holiday destination? I don't get to holiday much but I went to Tonga at the end of last year, which was great.
Favourite food? Barbeque “ anything on the BBQ is my favourite.
Favourite movies? Avatar and Shooter
Favourite band/artist? Celine Dion, Chris Brown and Michael Jackson are all up there.
Hero (who isn't in rugby)? Tiger Woods (for his sporting abilities and Business mind) Donald Trump “ to have his Real Estate Empire would be a dream for me.
Favourite sport/team (which isn't in rugby)? Brisbane Roar
What do you do in your spare time when not playing rugby? I like to work on my businesses outside of Rugby, and get experience in the Property industry. As well as golf and spending time with my family and Friends doing normal things.
What do you think of talkingrugbyunion.co.uk? It is a great website to keep up to date with everything going on with rugby around the world. I like the interviews with players and the game reports.
Finally “ if you had a message to say to your fans that have been supporting the Reds week in week out, what would you say to all of them?
THANK YOU “ the Reds fans are so loyal and have been so amazing even through the tough times. I really hope they are enjoying the win's we have been having, and I hope we can keep them coming for them.
