Welcome to Ulster Rugby, Rory! How have things been in your first few weeks in your new team and in pre-season? It’s been brilliant. All the lads have been really welcoming and helpful. You can go to any of them for a few questions. But it’s been tough in training, tough but really enjoyable too.
Tell us a bit about your background and rugby journey?
I’m from Dublin and started playing rugby at 14 years old with Blackrock College. I played with Leinster underage clubs and schools and then covid happened so I then didn't play for a while. I then played Irish U20s and played under Richie (Murphy), Jimmy (Duffy) and Willie (Faloon) before I went into the Leinster Academy.
In terms of settling into Ulster Rugby, which players have been helpful in settling into your new surroundings?
Mainly the forwards as I'm spending the most time with them! Any questions you have I feel that you can go to anybody to ask which has been really helpful for settling in.
I'm living with James McNabney, so get on really well with him. I knew guys like Ben Carson, Jude Postlethwaite and Scott Wilson from Ireland U20s, so get on really well with those guys too.
What are your goals as we approach the new season?
My aim is to try get into the team and bring physicality to the games.
How have you settled in life in Ulster?
I've gotten out to a few coffee shops, some nice pizza spots, and got into the city too. It’s been great so far!