20 Questions: Jamie Stevenson – Wasps scrum-half
Yes we did last week. I’m sure it won’t last but I’m very much enjoying it at the moment. I spent four years at London Scottish so it’s a nice bit of fresh air.
How did the move come out?
Wasps were interested and Scottish were very receptive despite me having a year left in my contract. I’m very thankful for the club to developing me as a player but also for allowing me to have a go at the Premiership.
Was it too good of an opportunity to turn down?
It was! Wasps are a club on the up on the moment and I can’t wait to have a shot in the England‘s best league.
Expectations for the season?
The competition will be fierce with Joe Simpson and Dan Robson there. I’ve just got to try to concentrate on working hard in pre-season and improving my game as much as I can. I’m sure I’ll get an opportunity as some point so I’ll have to make sure I’m ready when it comes.
Been on a big journey with Scottish?
They were a part-time club when I joined back in 2011 after they won promotion to the Championship. We struggled in the first year but we became professional after that. We improved for the next two seasons and ended in the play-offs last season.
Got some recognition from Scotland too?
I was picked to play for the A side who took on England Saxons in 2013. That was a great experience even though I didn’t get on in the end.
Got your break at Westcombe Park before that?
Yes while I was at University. Playing in National League Two was very good for me. It’s a very tough league but it gave me the game time I needed. Simon Amor picked me up from there and I joined Scottish.
What have you learnt in the Championship?
I’d never played as much as last season. I was injury free and I learnt a lot about managing my body through a long season. My fitness levels have improved massively as a result. I feel more like a seasoned pro for it.
Linking up with Elliot Daly again this season?
We were at Whitgift together when we won the Daily Mail Cup. Others from that team are playing at the highest level like Marland Yarde.
Took a different route to the top?
Elliot played Premiership rugby while at school but it’s fair to say I wasn’t ready physically for that level. I don’t regret going to University and earn my stripes with Park and Scottish. It worked out well to be honest.
Always nice to have a degree in the bag too?
I got a Psychology degree which I did at Nottingham University in my first year before transferring to London City University for my last two years. It’s definitely good to have that out of the way.
How did you find senior rugby at first?
It was physical but I really enjoyed it. The coaches at Park had a bit of an injury crisis and I ended up playing eight or nine games which was great and kept me fit before the 2011 Junior World Cup with Scotland U20s.
Played other sports growing up?
I did everything including squash where I was pretty handy but I stuck to rugby from the age of 14.
How do you chill?
Recovery is my main focus when I’m not at the club. Watching TV Series or grabbing a bit to eat out is also good.
Favourite cheat meal?
I used to eat toasts all the time on the go but I’ve cut it out now. Pizza is probably my go to cheat meal.
If not rugby, what would you be doing?
Having a degree I’d have gone into teaching or try to find a graduate job in the city.
What annoys you the most in life?
My flat mate and London Scottish full-back Pete Lydon. I still live with him and he offers no chat.
Three special dinner guests?
Ricky Gervais, Stephen Merchant and Karl Pilkington.
Best and worst banter at Scottish?
Adam Kwasnicki is so bad that he’s actually funny. He’d be both.
Best and worst dressed?
I’m probably the worst but best would be Miles Mantella even if it kills me to say it.
