Since becoming the youngest rugby player to start an international for England in 90 years in 2017, Tom Curry has been on an unstoppable rise to the top! This weekend will see Oundle alumnus Tom become England’s youngest Six Nations Captain for decades. We were lucky to speak to Tom back in 2020 when he was still an emerging star on the field. Read the interview for some insight into our brilliant rugby hero!

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Why did you choose rugby?
I was very influenced by various family members who played a lot of rugby but ultimately when I had to choose between sports I just enjoyed rugby more – probably because of the tackling!

Which team(s) do you play for?
Sale Sharks and England.

At what age did you first start playing?
Four years old at Grasshoppers in London.

Did school play a role in your career path?
Oundle was a big influence.  To be able to play high quality games every week against some of the best players in the country allowed me to really test myself. The school timetable allowed for plenty of time to work/train but also to relax. There were times when I’d have to travel away for other commitments but they were very accommodating as long as I caught up with work!

Where did you train and who with?
In Manchester with Sale Sharks.

How do you manage pre-match nerves?
I’m usually okay. I like the nerves as I know it means I’m in the right place mentally. I get worried if I’m not nervous.

How do you deal with victory, but also defeat?
Spending time with people.

What drives you on?
To be the best in the world.  I’m a pretty competitive person and I enjoy winning.

Do you have a sponsor?
A few. Most recently Bremont watches but also Landrover and Adidas.

What advice can you give to others wanting to excel within the world of rugby?
Treat every day the same. If you get better every day whatever happens in the future takes care of itself.

Were your parents involved in your choice of sporting career? If so, how?
Hugely. Without my parents driving us everywhere and supporting us with everything I would never have had the opportunity to do anything so it played a huge role. Plus my dad was my coach at Grasshoppers and then Crewe and Nantwich Rugby Club from the age of four to 16.

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Worried about whether rugby has a future at your child’s school?

We spoke to Neil Rollins, the former Head of rugby at four leading schools, and now Managing Director at Independent Coach Education, about school rugby’s uncertain future in the face of growing concern…

See here what he has to say about the Great School Rugby Debate 🏉