- When did you first take an interest in playing rugby?
I started off playing mini rugby with Stranmillis Primary School and then Instonians and have kept it up since.

- Coming from training in the Academy what has been the biggest adjustment for you now that you have a Summer Development Contract with Ulster Rugby?
It’s been a huge step up in both the quantity and the intensity of the training.

- What has been the highlight of your time with the academy so far?
I think improving my knowledge in terms of the technical aspects of Rugby has been one of the best outcomes of the Academy. The one on one training with Gary and Doaky has been invaluable.

- In what ways to you think the Academy has developed your rugby skills?
The Academy has given me a sound knowledge of what to expect from professional rugby. It covers every aspect from conditioning to diet and lifestyle management.

- How have you found training with the full team?
Already, I’ve learnt a lot about myself in terms of my training and my goals for the future. Being surrounded by players with so much experience, it makes you compare yourself to them and aspire to the kind of success that they’ve achieved.

- Which Ulster Rugby player do you admire most?
Issac Boss and Kieran Campbell probably. They’re so experienced and Issac is at the top of his game at the minute.

- What are your ambitions for the upcoming season?
Hopefully to do well in training over the summer and keep improving. My long term goal has always been to play with Ulster Rugby and sign a full contract so hopefully now I’m getting closer to achieving that.

- You were part of the Ireland U20 team who clinched an unprecedented Grand Slam and Six Nations championship double.What was the most exciting match you played with the Ireland U20’s?
Definitely France, to win against a side like theirs was just a massive achievement.

- How did it feel being told you had been selected for the squad?
It was fantastic to be a part of the team, I felt so proud, and also to have been so successful throughout the entire competition was amazing.

- What do you think of Ulster’s Heineken up pool for the 07/08 season?
There’s no easy pool, I think all the matches will be tough but I know Ulster will be giving it 100%.

- The fixtures for the RWC have now been released if you could go anywhere in the world to watch a match which one would you choose?
Ireland v France. That will definitely be and exciting one, and there will be some history there since France snatched victory from Ireland in the Six Nations.

- If Ulster Rugby had an unlimited budget who would you sign?
Neil Doak!

To learn more about the Ulster Academy please CLICK HERE