20 Questions: Adrian Jarvis – Bristol fly-half
Pretty good, yes. After a really good pre-season we had a very disappointing start and didn’t get out of the blocks at all, so it’s been nice to put a run of six wins together.
What’s made the difference?
Focus and hard work. We’ve all just pulled together.
Ever regret leaving Harlequins in 2008?
No. I just don’t think I’d have played much rugby if I’d stayed. They were going to sign Nick Evans no matter what and I wanted to be somewhere where I’d have a very good chance of starting. It was made fairly clear to me that probably wouldn’t happen at Quins.
You had to battle against another All Black, Andrew Mehrtens, before that. Unlucky or what?
It was in a way, but it was good to be around Mehrts because you learned a lot from someone with his experience. I’ve got a lot of fond memories of Quins and it’s a great rugby club, but for me it was an obvious choice to come to Bristol.
Surprised to see your old boss Dean Richards doing well at Newcastle?
Not at all. He leads well and is a strong figurehead. You see things coming through at Quins that he put in place and they’ve just kicked on and on.
Decent cricketer, weren’t you?
Loved my cricket. I played for Middlesex U19s and U21s and it was only towards the end of my schooldays at Wellington College that rugby became more of a focus. Nick Compton was part of the same Middlesex set-up and has gone on to play for England.
Best thing about Bristol?
It’s a great club. There’s a great atmosphere between the players and the fans and it’s a fantastic rugby city. Over 6,000 were at our last game against Doncaster and the potential here is enormous.
How do you chill-out?
At the moment I spend most of my time with our 11-month old son, Theo.
Where do you hang out in Bristol?
Katharine and I live in Clifton Village and there are lots of coffee shops around there. I’d recommend the Primrose Cafe, which is a favourite for the local boys.
Play any other sport?
Golf… off a 16 handicap. Some of the boys think they’re pretty decent. Jack Tovey fancies himself as a hot-shot and Jason Hobson plays off single figures. James Grindal and Kyle Traynor are useful, too.
Enjoy your food?
Love a takeaway, otherwise we eat pretty healthily at home. I do a fair bit of cooking and if I’m putting on a show my signature dish is Beef Wellington.
Favourite holiday destination?
Bali. I went on a surfing holiday there with my wife-to-be and it was absolutely phenomenal. The people are so friendly and it’s just such a relaxed lifestyle.
Bristol player you’d hate to be stuck in a lift with?
Matthew Jones. Great bloke but he just talks non-stop.
Best and worst trainers?
Best is Tom ‘The Hog’ Channon, who’s ultra keen in the gym. Worst is Jason Hobson, but we’ve got to look after the big man!
Best and worst dressed?
Kyle Traynor’s the worst… terrible dresser, no clue whatsoever. The coolest is Mike Tagicakibau, who’s pretty cutting edge when it comes to fashion.
Teenage rugby idol?
I loved watching Carlos Spencer when he was in his pomp. Not just because he was a 10 but for his all round class and swagger.
Guilty pleasures?
I do enjoy a pizza and I tend to snack on too much chocolate. My wife has it in the house and I don’t have much choice.
Ambitions in life?
I’ve always wanted to learn how to play the guitar. I’ve got one but just haven’t got round to using it. I’d also like to become a better surfer.
Plans for life after rugby?
I’m doing an Open University degree which involves business and finance but don’t know how I’ll use it. I might look to get into teaching.
Ambitions for Bristol this season?
To make sure we’re in the top four of the Championship and give ourselves the best chance of winning the play-offs. We can’t look beyond that.
