James McKinney Interview
We spoke to James McKinney the Ulster Ravens Fly Half and also Youth Ireland Rugby international.
1. How do you think Ulster are doing this year?
Obviously this has been a very successful year for Ulster. Reaching the quarter finals of the Heineken Cup has probably been the highlight in my eyes. Finally progressing from the group stages has been a massive thing for the team. This has been combined with consistent league form both at home, making Ravenhill the fortress it must remain, and away, has seen them reach the semi-finals of the Magner's League play-offs this Friday night. Hopefully progression to the final will cap off a very good year for the Ulstermen. I see no point resting on these laurels however. Ulster have this year showed a potential that should allow them to push on and develop into one of the dominant European forces over the next few years.
2. Who is your rugby hero?
Andrew Mehrtens
3. How was the experience of playing in the U20 Rugby World Cup in Argentina?
The Junior World Championship in Argentina last year was a wonderful experience from a variety of aspects. Argentina is a diverse and attractive country very different to our own, but full of people filled with a passion for their sport. Obviously football is their primary interest, but the locals where keen to make us all feel most welcome both on and off the field. The rugby played was certainly challenging, with many future stars on show. Except when working with Ulster, this is the best level of rugby I have played at. The experience of playing in a three week global tournament based in the southern hemisphere was exciting and demanding in equal measure. Exposure to such a high level has, I feel, only benefited my own game.
4. For an outhalf practicing your kicking is a huge part of training for yourself? How often would you spend training on your kicking compared to other drills?
Obviously kicking is an essential part of an outside-half's armoury. Over the years I have spent quite a large amount of time quite simply kicking a ball about. I think repetition and attention to detail has paid off to an extent. Now, in an average game week I would kick twice, with a heavier session mid-week and ideally a lighter one nearer the match. The emphasis is now more focused on quality than quantity. Rugby is such a multi-faceted game with so many varying and often contrasting skills to develop, I think it would perhaps be foolish to focus on any one area and neglect the others. There is always something to learn and develop, especially as a young aspiring player.
5. Have you a memorable moment so far from your short rugby career?
To be honest with you, being injured for so much of this season I now look at every opportunity to train or play as a highlight. Sometimes I think we take for granted how special it is to be able to do something you truly love for a living.
6. Do you have any mentor's in the Ulster team and who are they?
In Ulster the young players are very lucky in that the older ones are very easy to work with and learn from. I certainly have never felt looked-down upon by even the most senior players. Obviously in my position any advice from the Ian Humphreys, Niall O'Connor, Paddy Wallace and Ruan Pienaar is most helpful and always worth taking on board. They certainly know what they are talking about and the transfer of their experience is an essential aspect of my rugby development both on and off the pitch.
7. How did you get into rugby?
My dad has coached the 1st XV at Campbell College for many years and when I was younger I used to spend most of my time pestering the players. My dad taught me everything I know, I owe everything to him.
8. If you have to give any advice to upcoming young players what advice would you give?
"Proper preparation prevents poor performance “ David Drake
And just enjoy it!!!
9. Having players such as Ruan Pienaar, Ian Humphreys and even David Humphreys around the team, do they give you advice with regards to being a fly half?
I am in a very fortunate position that these men are not only wonderfully able rugby players, but they are also kind enough to share their knowledge. I am sure they are long fed up with me pestering them for advice.
Other Questions
Favourite holiday destination?
Malta
Favourite food?
Pizza
Favourite movies?
Troy, Remember the Titans, Harry Potter
Favourite band/artist?
Ronnie Day
Hero (who isn't in rugby)?
My dad
Favourite sport/team (which isn't in rugby)?
New England Patriots
What do you do in your spare time when not playing rugby?
Study at university (Queen's)
What do you think of talkingrugbyunion.co.uk?
Great website with a vast array of easily accessible information on global rugby. A must for any true rugby fan.
