20 Questions: Callum Sheedy – Bristol fly-half
Very much so! I can’t wait to be playing regular rugby again after missing out on the start of the season through injury.
How did the move come about?
It all happened really quickly to be honest. We were just looking for a club in order for me to get some game time rather than just train and not play in Bristol.
How quick can you settle into a new team as a fly-half?
All the boys are great but there is a lot of calls for me to learn. There are also all the moves but I’m trying my best to learn them as quickly as I can.
Came back in December didn’t, you?
After four months out I was able to play again in December and played a few games for Hartpury in National One.
What was the injury?
I tore my hamstring during the last week of pre-season which wasn’t great. No one likes to be injured but it couldn’t have been a worse timing.
You must have been excited to play in the Premiership too?
Indeed! Last season ended in great fashion for us and everyone couldn’t wait to play in the Premiership. It was very frustrating but it’s in the past.
Did the injury allowed to look back at your amazing end to last season?
A bit as it was pretty special. I only played in the last five games but they were the ones that took the club back to the Premiership. To be honest, I quickly turned my attention to the next season before my injury stopped me in my tracks.
Earned a legendary status in Bristol with your performances, didn’t you?
I wouldn’t say that but the fans were amazing and I’ll always be grateful for the support they have shown me. Hopefully I’ll be back playing for Bristol soon and I can give something back to them.
How important was Marc Tainton in your development?
I worked closely with Marc, who was the kicking coach before taking over from Andy Robinson. He’s the head coach now and hopefully I can play for him this season.
How did you experience the start of the season?
It was very frustrating because we weren’t getting the results we were after but I couldn’t do anything about it. I tried to help out but there wasn’t much I could do apart from some analysis.
Targets for the end of the season?
I just want to play rugby and enjoy being on a rugby field again. Hopefully I’ll be able to help Jersey out and get some good results in the coming weeks.
What about Bristol?
I’m not looking too far ahead as the injury put everything into perspective. I’m just happy to be back playing for now and I’ll see how it goes. It’d be great to play in the Premiership for Bristol this season though.
Can they stay up?
Definitely! The boys are trying their best and it’s starting to show. We played well from the start of the season but weren’t getting the results. It clicked somehow in recent weeks.
Any particular reasons?
Jason Woodward played a huge part in that since his arrival. He really gave us some energy and told the backline to be fearless. You can see it with the tries we’ve been scoring lately.
How good was Millfield School for you?
I left two and a half years ago but it feels like it was yesterday. I had a great time there under our coaches John Mallett and John Brimacombe and I go back there as often as I can.
If not rugby, what would you be doing?
I’m not sure really as Bristol offered me a contract before my exams so I was set on that early on.
Favourite cheat meal?
I’m not blessed with a skinny body so I try to be as good as I can but I do like an Indian after a game.
Three special dinner guests?
Leonardo DiCaprio, Brian O’Driscoll and Tom Varndell sneaks in.
Best and worst banter at Bristol?
I like Luke Arscott’s chat and Will Cliff is funny but Andy Uren is the worst. He’s from Filton College too!
Best and worst dressed?
Nick Carpenter is the worst but Thretton Palamo is the best.
