tom daly

How did you get into rugby?

I played nearly every sport when I was a kid, but I was big for my age so that’s why I started to focus on rugby.

Have you always played in the centre? 

When I started I was an out-half, as I had quite good hands, but when I went to Leinster they converted me into a centre because of my size.

What do you do away from rugby? 

I’m at the Royal College of Sugeons in Dublin studying physiotherapy. I hope it’ll give me the opportunity to get a job in rugby in the future.

Who are your heroes?

When I was a kid I looked up to Brian O’Driscoll, and now I also admire Sonny Bill Williams and Manu Tuilagi. Brian helps you out without even knowing he’s doing so, just by chatting to you on the pitch. I’m learning from him all the time.

When did you get involved with Ireland?

I played U18s for three years, then U19s for a year and now U20s. It’s more serious now with the Six Nations and World Cup.

What are your aims?

I’d love to play for Leinster and Ireland one day.

RW Verdict: Daly prefers the 12 shirt but can play at 13. Either way, he’s shooting up the Ireland ranks.

This was published in the May 2013 issue of Rugby World. Click here to see what’s in the current edition.