Ed Slater Interview
1. How do you think the tigers season went this year?
We did well. We finished top of the table, a big achievement when you consider the injuries the squad endured, as well as performing with the international players away. Obviously, to have finished the season without a winners medal was hugely disappointing, but personally, as a new face in the squad and environment, it was a massive learning curve for myself. The experience gained over the season, with many ups and some downs, will benefit me and hopefully I can use that to contribute next year.
2. How was your experience playing rugby over in Australia?
It was an experience that helped my rugby in a big way. Before I moved to Sydney, I had been playing with my local club Milton Keynes. When I joined up with Eastern Suburbs, I was exposed to another level of playing, this included skill levels, pace of the game and attitude. For me, I benefited from this, and the coaching available, to improve myself all round as a rugby player. Sydney is also a fantastic place to live, I made some great friends and had some interesting jobs! I would recommend playing in Australia to anyone and everyone.
3. What has been your career highlight so far?
It would be difficult to pick out a single highlight, however I would say that being given the opportunity to play with Leicester and alongside some awesome players at Tigers is something I am really enjoying.
4. Who is your rugby hero and why?
Martin Johnson, I probably don't need to go in to depth as to why he is someone I look up to.
5. Have you enjoyed the first team experience of Leicester this season?
Every minute.
6. What tips would you give to youngsters?
I am only new to the professional game and still young, but belief helps a lot.
7. What is the greatest match you have played in?
I don't think I have ever been involved in anything bigger than the Heineken Cup Quarter Final in Dublin or the Premiership Final versus Saracens. Despite being on the wrong side of the result in both games, I have certainly taken away a lot from the both so I wont pick one but two.
8. Who is the toughest player you have played against?
In my position I would have to pick Danny Grewcock.
9. How did you start playing rugby?
I started quite late at 16 with Milton Keynes, my local club.
10. You can also play Flanker? Which position do you prefer between that and second row?
People who don't play in the tight five never understand where the games really played! I enjoy being in the second row a lot, on the other hand playing on the flank is also one of the better positions on the park.
11. If any player could join Leicester who would it be and why?
I don't think you could argue with having a player like Richie McCaw in the side. He is great to watch.
12. What are your goals for next season?
To continue developing as a player and working hard each week for a place in the match day squad.
13. Do any players mentor you and help you when you need advice?
I like to ask questions, and watching how the senior players in the squad operate is helping me progress. Players such as Julian White, George Chuter, Louis Deacon and George Skivington are just a few examples, not to mention Richard Cockerill.
Other Questions
Favourite holiday destination?
Fiji
Favourite food?
The old dears pasta dish.
Favourite movies?
Shawshank Redemption, Goodfellas, American Pyscho, The Hangover, Anchorman.
Favourite band/artist?
Madness, The Smiths, Cypress Hill, Fat Freddys Drop, Eminem, Nate Dogg, Arctic Monkeys.
Hero (who isn't in rugby)?
Brian Dawkins a.k.a the Wolverine!
Favourite sport/team (which isn't in rugby)?
Charlton Athletic
What do you do in your spare time when not playing rugby?
Just started playing golf, cinema, seeing friends.
What do you think of talkingrugbyunion.co.uk?
Good place to keep up to date with your rugby.
Finally “ if you had a message to say to your fans who have been supporting the Leicester week in week out, what would you say to all of them?
They are the lifeline of the club, and as players we never underestimate the influence they have in all the success the club has had and will continue to enjoy. Welford Road is a place that will always be special, and the experience of running through a packed Crumbie stand will be something that will stick with me for a long time.
