20 Questions: James Rodwell – England 7s
It’s my fifth full season and although it’s been a rollercoaster at times, it’s been really good and I’ve no regrets about leaving the 15-a-side game.
Among your 7s highlight would be?
Just competing in the World 7s series is a highlight, but winning London in ’09 was special and the Commonwealth Games in Delhi was memorable.
Keep tabs on your old club, Moseley?
There’s not many players left now but I stay in touch with team manager John Caves and DoR John Beale. Cavesy coached me at university and was a big mentor.
Had Premiership chances, didn’t you?
There were a few options available and I was training full-time with Worcester for a year, but I caught the 7s bug and clubs didn’t like you being away.
Ever miss the 15s game?
No. Travelling the world and playing in front of 40-50,000 in a game where you get your hands on the ball a lot is pretty good.
Would you ever consider a return to 15s?
I don’t think so, but it depends how long my 7s career lasts and whether, at the end of it, I feel I’ve still got something to give. If I do, I’ll look into it.
No.8 was your position, who was your hero?
I’m a huge fan of Lawrence Dallaglio, who played 7s before excelling at 15s. He’s been down to talk to us a few times and I based a lot of my game on him.
Right call to separate England 7s from the 15s programme?
Yes. It’s hard to train for both, especially the way 7s has gone. You’d find it hard to play 15s and 7s now as the fitness requirements are so different.
Any special prep for the World Cup 7s?
High-altitude training in Tignes. It certainly took the body by surprise and I felt light-headed at times, but hopefully it will have the desired effect.
Started rugby at Tring RFC, didn’t you?
Yes. My dad was club captain and got me into the minis, but I think it was more of an excuse for him to go down drinking with his mates.
How do you chill-out?
I like to spend time with my fiancée, Amy, at weekends. We’ve been together eight years and are getting married in three weeks.
Going anywhere nice on honeymoon?
Bali. Amy used to live in Indonesia and assures me it’s a great choice.
Best place you’ve visited?
I love the atmosphere of Hong Kong, not just around the 7s rugby but the whole city. It’s a really vibrant place.
Any hobbies or pastimes?
I enjoy a bit of golf and love cooking. My speciality is home-made pizza but I’m open to new recipes. Favourite meal is creamy cheese and bacon pasta.
Played any other sports?
I was ultra-competitive at school and played cricket, hockey, tennis and Eton Fives, which was probably my strongest sport before rugby kicked in.
If you could be another sportsman, who?
Lionel Messi. To have the skills he’s got and constantly perform at the highest level is admirable… and his money isn’t too bad either!
If not a rugby player, what would you be?
I did a business commerce degree so I guess I’d look at going down that road when I finish, perhaps into corporate sponsorship tied in with sport.
Best and worst banter in the 7s camp?
Sharpest banter is Rob Vickerman, who you’ve got to be on your toes with or he’ll be onto you in a flash. Worst is Dan Norton… poor chat!
Best and worst dressed?
Christian Lewis-Pratt has his own clothing range so he’s pretty stylish. Worst is Mark Odejobi, who’s still living a bit of a student life and dresses like it.
Tell us something about England 7s boss Ben Ryan we don’t know?
It’s hard to gauge his mood, whether he’s in ‘serious coach’ mode or ‘having fun with the lads.’ But as a senior man I’m getting used to his foibles.
