Ollie Phillips Interview - FIX ME NATURALLY Interview
How do you think Stade Francais season went as a whole?
It was disappointing for the team as a whole given our aspirations at the start of the season. We wanted to be up there in the top six, competing for the title, but overall we underachieved. We then had the saving grace of the Amlin Challenge Cup and the possibility of securing Heineken cup rugby, but to lose in the final the way we did, to a moment of brilliance by a very good player, left us frustrated and disappointed.
Did you enjoy playing in France?
Definitely. It was amazing, it ranks up there as one of my best rugby experiences. To play for a great team like Stade, in front of sometimes 50, 60 maybe 80,000 at times. Also experiencing France was great, I enjoyed learning the language and the culture, overall it was great.
How is the French league different to the English league?
It is much more attacking minded which is great as a winger but there is also less of a game plan. In the premiership, if one thing is working, you kick or you change your plan, but in France you just go out and play, although things certainly changed under [Michael] Cheika, as he brought an Anglo-saxon element into the team.
Who is the toughest player you have played against in the Top 14?
Either Vincent Clerc or Julien Malzieu. They're both big strong guys with good feet and are deceptively powerful. All in all they are a handful for their opposition.
Did you enjoy playing with players like Bastareaud, Parisse and Beauxis?
Yes most definitely, you go out there and herald them as great players, which they are, but it also nice to realise that they are normal lads, and it is a privilege to play with such amazing players and that is now the benchmark I have set myself for my career.
Do you prefer playing sevens or 15 a side Rugby Union?
Difficult to say as I really enjoy both forms. They are both completely different, for example as a winger in sevens I get more ball, but in 15s the environment is more complicated. It is much harder to break defences down and score tries which in turn makes it more rewarding. Sevens is an awesome environment, and the game is so fast and free-flowing, it truly is an experience and I'm fortunate and thankful to have been part of that. Two years ago I would have definitely said sevens but now you appreciate the challenges of breaking the gain line, as well as the different application of the same core skills.
What tips would you give to young players?
The devil is in the detail. Don't get bogged down with size and strength, there is too much emphasis placed on being massive and hitting the gym a lot. Those things can be developed. The core skills are what is needed and are priceless. Size and physique are irrelevant early on. Core basics are what will serve you in good stead, and if you focus too much on size and not enough on skills, you can become one dimensional.
Who has been the best player you have played with?
Matt Burke. Hands down best professional I have ever played with. Magnificent under the high ball and can read a game like nobody else. He seemed to know the opposition's next move and was able to deal with it. Also he had every skill set available and was as close to a complete player as I have ever seen.
What do you hope to do after retiring?
I would really like to stay involved with sevens, and have been aiming to get involved already with things like the expansion of the game, the Olympics and World Series. Fingers crossed that's what I'll be doing.
Have you met any inspiring people along your career?
As a player, you tend do a lot of community work with young kids who have had a rough ride, or have been less fortunate than myself. To see those guys battle on with a constant smile on their faces is inspirational in itself.
In rugby terms though, Steve Black has been brilliant. He is an amazing coach, motivator, trainer and friend. Everything in one really.
Who was your rugby hero?
Jonah Lomu for me. I started playing rugby at the age of four or five, and loved it full stop. When I grew up towards the end of school, start of university, I saw Jonah play and just wanted to emulate him after his performances in world cups.
Then I was lucky enough to play against him at the London Sevens event and his presence was amazing, he is just a man mountain. He is the sort of player that makes everyone else step up their games.
How do you think England will do in the Rugby World Cup?
There is no doubt they are a good side, though they're not hitting amazing form right now but are showing some signs of form. They have that big match mentality which is credit to the premiership and the standard at club level. The premiership has fostered that win at all costs mentality and it showed in the autumn as they had the quality to beat Australia twice home and away, who are for me the form side in the world right now. England on their day can beat anyone and I certainly wouldn't write them off.
Favourite holiday destination?
I've always wanted to go to South America, and have been putting it off as I want to do the whole hog and spend a couple of months out there and see it all.
Favourite food?
You simply cannot beat a good Chicken and Mushroom Risotto with a rocket salad and balsamic dressing.
Favourite movies?
It's really tough but I would say either Wedding Crashers or Gladiator because I love roman history, but it depends on the mood.
Favourite band/artist?
Michael Jackson for me, greatest of all time, but I have an eclectic taste in music. If I was to be stranded on a desert island it would either take MJ's greatest hits, or Van Morrison's.
Hero (who isn't in rugby)?
Mohammed Ali. He has always been a controversial figure, but the things he did and achieved are unparalleled. Greatness is overused but Roger Federer is another who excels at the highest level. I love the guys that beat the best and are always in the mixer, you can't win them all but they sure as hell give it a go, while they showcase their talents.
Favourite sport/team (which isn't in rugby)?
I do love my boxing, and Floyd Mayweather is hands down the best. A bit arrogant but so good.
If I could have done any other sport though, it would be formula one. I just love the cars and the lifestyle, there's nothing quite like it.
What do you do in your spare time when not playing rugby?
I love being busy and am always running around so being injured is difficult for me as I can't keep still. I do love the cinema though, it's my favourite thing to do, as you can relax and no “one can get hold of you or whatever. I saw Harry Potter the other day and it was amazing.
How is the rehab going?
It's going slowly, I'm in week four of a six week schedule, and I'm just focussed on getting my knee right. That is my sole focus right now, getting fit and my knee right, and then I can start making plans.
What do you think of talkingrugbyunion.co.uk?
Its good and informative, from my perspective people can find out more and more about the players they watch, and anything that portrays rugby in a positive light is great, and it is good to see more and more websites speaking the truth about the game.
