20 Questions: Dean Schofield – Worcester lock
I’ve had a few plates spinning since arriving from Toulon, with getting settled down, a baby on the way and trying to find an apartment. It’s all good now, though, and Gemma gave birth to a lovely young lad, Charlie, four weeks ago. Life-changing!
Flat-hunting a bit of an adventure?
The first apartment was next to a kebab and pizza shop and it was like, ‘Get me out of here!’ But I’ve got a beautiful quiet place by the river now.
Enjoying the British weather?
I’d forgotten how bad it was. The first two weeks back it didn’t stop raining and it was, ‘Oh my god, what have I done?’ Talk about a reality check.
Tough start for Worcester?
It’s been a rough ride. We’ve had two referees apologise for decisions in the last 30 seconds of home games that cost us wins. Tough to swallow, but we’re getting better.
Best memory from Toulon?
The support we had. I’d never experienced anything like it before. Toulon is a real working-class town, they’re fanatical about their rugby and create a fantastic atmosphere.
Funniest moment in France?
I was at traffic lights when some guy just got in the car with me. I’d got injured and he just wanted to give me a hug and wish me well. That’s how much rugby means to those people.
How was your French?
It was fine. I had a few lessons and just threw myself in. There were a few jokes made about my lineout calling, but you take it on the chin and embrace everything.
If not a rugby player, what would you have done?
I’m a builder by trade so I’d still have been doing that. I did my apprenticeship and didn’t start playing pro rugby until I was 22.
A late starter then?
Yes. I had to work at weekends and couldn’t afford to play rugby. I was just trying to get by. When I started earning enough I played for Aldwinians before Sale picked me up.
Other sports you like?
I love boxing and have just bought tickets to see Ricky Hatton’s comeback fight. I’ve met Ricky a few times and he’s a good man. I’m a big fan of David Haye too.
Teenage sporting idols?
I’m a Man Utd fan and Eric Cantona was my number one. Then there was the old boxing Brit pack of Chris Eubank, Steve Collins and Nigel Benn. They were all great guys.
Other sport you’d like to play?
Aside from boxing, I think golfers have a good lifestyle – no real impact on the body and they can play into their Fifties.
Characters at Worcester?
Andy’s Goode’s certainly one and I enjoy his company, but John Andress is the mad one. Within a couple of days he was wearing my underwear and using my towel. He can tell a story, but he’s a good craic… typical mad Ulsterman!
Best and worst trainers?
There’s no bad ones, to be fair, but the best is Ceri Jones in his turbo-charged white boots. He’s a top bloke and is on fire, scoring three or four tries in training every day.
What’s your cooking like?
Terrible! I can just about manage a steak but the missus won’t let me near the kitchen. I’ve been with her two years and haven’t cooked a meal. She doesn’t want me to!
How do you chill out?
I love music. We had a band going in Toulon and I played a bit of guitar. I love the Manchester scene… Ian Brown, Stone Roses, Oasis, Smiths, Charlatans… all the good stuff.
Hardest opponents?
Danny Grewcock, Sebastien Chabal, Jason White and Simon Shaw… all big aggressive guys.
Best and worst rugby moments?
Best was winning the Premiership with Sale in 2006. To do it with a group of lads I’d grown up with was special. Worst was losing both cup finals at Toulon last season.
Ambitions this season?
Premiership top six and Heineken Cup rugby next season.
Would you be sad to see the Heineken Cup go?
Yes, because it’s a great competition. But things change sometimes.
