20 Questions: Charlie Hewitt – Worcester lock
Most of us have been back for two weeks now but the players who played a lot of games came in this Monday.
What have you been doing?
The first couple of days were about seeing where all the players were at in terms of fitness. We also had some Wattbike tests as well as body composition analysis. Now it’s done we’re kicking on with the gym and running sessions.
Happy with your results?
I’ve improved a lot compared to the start of last season and my body looks better too.
How did you achieve that?
Last season was my first time in a full-time environment but I know what to expect now and how to look after my body. I didn’t come into pre-season blind.
How do you survive pre-season?
We’ve got a cryotherapy room at the club which I use twice a day. It does wonders for my recovery and helps my sleep too. I’ve got a little massage ball that looks like an avocado which I carry with me everywhere in case my back needs some TLC.
Touched the ball much yet?
The emphasis is more on fitness and skills for now but we’ve been told we’ll play rugby quite early this season to make sure everyone has everything nailed down when the season starts. We’ve set a benchmark last season so it’s all about stepping it up now.
How do you look back at Worcester‘s season?
Staying up was crucial but we took one game at a time and made sure we had the ability and belief we could win each game.
What about your own season personally?
I played in the A-League quite a lot as well as a few friendlies during the year. I also went on loan to London Scottish around Christmas. The LV=Cup is back so I hope to be pushing for that next season.
Making your Premiership debut against Saracens must have been a big confidence boost?
It was quite surreal and I was surprised to be involved. But all the senior players looked after me and made sure I knew what to do which made me feel very comfortable.
Chomping at the bit now?
I’ve got an idea of where I want to be and the pre-season will be crucial for me. I’ve got six to eight weeks to put down a marker and hopefully get a shot during the friendlies. It’s key for youngsters like me to show how much you’ve got in the tank.
What do you have to improve to become a Premiership regular?
I don’t think I’m a bad ball carrier but I need to improve and get more touches on the ball. Being one of the bigger players on the field I feel like I need to be a bit more influential ball in hand.
How good has Donncha O’Callaghan been for the Warriors?
Personally he’s been a great role model. He’s the first at the club in the morning and the last one to leave. He shows every day what it takes to be at the top of the game for such a long time. I just watch what he does and try to emulate him.
Did he teach you any of the dark arts?
Ha! To be fair everything he does seems to be legal. Everything he does comes from hard work.
How long have you been at the club?
It’s my second season at the club. I was in the Exeter academy but got released two years ago so I went to University and Worcester picked me up then.
Were you still playing last season?
Yes I went to Cardiff Met University and played for both the BUCS and the league team. Playing in the Welsh Championship was very good for me as a young lock.
Did you think about another career?
I’m quite interested in chartered surveying. I like architecture so working and coordinating large building sites would interest me.
Favourite cheat meal?
I’m quite good but I usually have a night off where I’ll eat whatever I please. Anything unhealthy will do but I quite enjoy KFC.
Three special dinner guests?
Boris Johnson, Jamie Fox and Kendall Jenner.
Best and worst banter at Warriors?
Jack Singleton is the worst by a country mile but I’ll give the best to Donncha to stay in the good books.
Best and worst dressed?
Ryan Mills has an unreal sneaker collection but academy prop Gareth Milasinovich has to stop wearing flares!
