How did you start playing rugby?

I played football first and that was my first sport until I was 12, that’s when I started to play rugby. I basically lost interest in football and I always loved rugby, my father and uncle also played rugby.

Interestingly, my dad wanted me to play football as he loves football! I played in goals in football then started rugby at under 11s.

Why did you stop playing football so early?

Only so much you could do in goals! So much more to do in rugby, more skills and more fun and appealing!

Were you gifted in school or worked hard to be where you are today? 

I was a good player. I was a bit bigger compared to the others. As I went through secondary I became quite small and they became physically bigger than me at 16-17 then I eventually caught up.

When and how did you get started in Rugby?

My brother who is 2 years older than me played for our local team Aberavon Quins so I started playing with him when I was 6 years old. Then it all went from there!

What keeps you motivated and how did you stay motivated when things weren’t going your way?

My family keeps me motivated, especially now I have young children. Having a game every weekend also keeps me motivated!

Name: Darren Dawidiuk

Age: 29

Position: Hooker

Club: Gloucester

When and how did you get started with rugby?

I started rugby at the age of 11. I went to watch my older brother Dan play, and just wanted to copy him like most younger brothers do. That week my brother took me down the park to practice passing and tackling, then on the weekend my Dad took me to Truro rugby club. I’ve been hooked ever since.

Age: 25

Height: 5 ft 10

Weight: 88kg

Position: Wing

Squat 1RM: About 50kg (Returning from a leg operation)

When and how did you get started with rugby?

I believe I started relatively late age, towards the end of primary school. I think in year 5 (aged 10) I was invited by a friend down to Mumbles RFC. I used to play football on a Saturday and Rugby on a Sunday but at 16 rugby moved to a Saturday and I had to choose between the two. To my shame I originally chose football but after a short period I saw the light and decided to play youth rugby. This decision was quickly vindicated as we got to go on an end of season tour to Butlins in Minehead.

Age: 26
Height: 6ft 2
Weight: 16 stone / 102kg
Work: Director of TeamRoarFitness, Made in Chelsea, Fitness Model, Sponsored Athlete at Kaged Muscle Supplements and RugbyWarfare