20 Questions: Drew Locke – London Scottish centre
I went to Ibiza for a few days with some friends which was nice. It’s a great place to go and let your hair down before it all kicked off again.
Pre-season started at London Scottish already?
We were back on Monday. It’s been pretty gentle so far but everyone has been very nice and I can’t wait to get going properly.
Did you know any of the guys in the squad?
I was at Exeter with James Phillips. He’s a good guy to know because he’s pretty big but he’s also a great personality in the squad.
Why did you decide to leave Jersey?
It was more for family reasons than anything else but I was very lucky London Scottish were interested. They’re an ambitious club with great players and a good coaching team.
Goals for next season?
Keep playing rugby. I had a few years where I kept getting injured and I found it hard to get back to where I was. I had a good season at Jersey so I just want to keep the ball rolling.
Finished top try scorer at Jersey?
Yes, even though we played ten-man rugby I managed to get over the line a few times. Our driving maul might actually be joint top with me.
What did you make of Jersey’s season?
We had a very strong end of the season and it was very pleasing to finish where we did (7th). We beat Worcester at home which was a big bonus for us. They’re established in the Premiership now.
Happy to avoid relegation or disappointed not to make Top6?
I think we had to be happy about where we finished because unlike the past two seasons we didn’t avoid relegation on the last game. We might have over-achieved in a sense but they’re going in the right direction and I wish them all the best.
Where did it all start for you?
I started at my local club in Braintree before going to St Joseph’s College in Ipswich and joined the Northampton Academy.
Got your big break at the Cornish Pirates, How did you end up there?
I left Saints when I was 19 to go to University and I got picked up by Exeter playing at the Bournemouth Sevens. I was loaned to the Pirates in my first season and joined full-time the following one.
Then Gloucester came knocking?
Yes, but things didn’t go to plan as I ended up having a neck surgery. It could have been career threatening but I got it sorted and although I stayed only a year there I had a great time.
Any regrets so far?
Not at all. I wanted to go to University and experience that part of my life and that’s why I left Northampton. I was really fortunate after that to get picked up again and given an opportunity to make a career out of rugby.
Still chasing the Premiership dream?
I played in the LV=Cup and even though I’m getting on a bit at 28, everyone in my position would love to play in the top flight. But I’m not looking too far ahead. I just want to play well for London Scottish this season and see where it takes me.
Did you play other sports growing up?
I played a bit of cricket at school but nothing serious.
If you could be any sportsman?
I really like US golfer Phil Mickelson. Getting to walk around a golf course every day and getting paid would be a nice life.
Big fan of golf then?
Definitely. I like to play a game on my day off like I did on Wednesday with my dad. It’s a good way to spent time with him. But when it’s chucking down with rain in the winter I turn to cinema.
What annoys you the most in life?
People being ignorant.
Favourite cheat meal?
It’d have to be KFC. I have at least one every week.
Three special dinner guests?
James Corden, David Beckham and Boris Johnson.
Best and worst banter at Scottish?
I’ve got to be careful after only a week at the club. I’m going to pass on the worst and say James Phillips is the best.
Best and worst dressed at Jersey?
Harry Williams tries to be edgy but he forgets he’s a 130kg prop. He should take advices from me as people tend to like the way I dress.
