1. Did you enjoy your time with the Academy?

Yes, I really enjoyed it. I was with the Academy for 3 years, 1 with SINI and 2 with the Ulster Academy. I have made some good friends from being involved with the Academy.

2. Do you feel it has helped you prepare for being a professional player?

Definitely, being with the academy for so long has given me a real insight into the routine of being a professional rugby player. I am familiar with the Pro set up and should be well used to all the training and conditioning programmes.

3. What do you think of the Heineken Cup Draw?

If you are going to win the tournament you have to play well against the best teams from day one, so yes it is a tough draw but we are good enough.

4. What have been your best rugby moments so far?

I captained the Ulster U-21s that won the Inter Pros in 2004/05, which was amazing. It was a great season and we had a brilliant team.
I also really enjoyed the trip to Argentina with the Irish U-21s, it was a really interesting country.

5. Who are your most respected opponents?

I respect different people for different reasons. I have a lot of respect for Neil Best as I had watched him play at Malone before he made it with Ulster. It is great to see him doing so well with Ulster and Ireland.  I also really respect Ritchie McCaw.  When we were in Argentina for the U-21 World Cup I played against a superb English second row who played for Saracens at the time, I cant remember his name but he was a great player.

6. Have you any match day superstitions or routines?

I like to listen to my I Pod and have a big feed!

7. What are your hobbies and interests outside of rugby?

I enjoy playing table tennis and wall climbing with some school friends; it keeps me out of trouble! I also enjoy playing poker and reading.

8. Where in the world would you most like to visit?

I would love to go to New Zealand some day, it seems like an incredible country and they certainly love their rugby!

9. If you could invite any 3 people dead or alive to dinner, who would they be?

George Best, Nelson Mandela, Eva Longoria

10. What is your favourite food?

Steak and Chips

11. What is your favourite music?

At the minute I am enjoying listening to Jack Johnson, James Blunt and the Red Hot Chilli Peppers.