Name – Josh Peacock
Playing Position – Hooker
How did you prepare to handle the increased physical and tactical demands of senior-level rugby compared to the under-23s?
The time between the Under-23 season finishing and senior season starting is only small. That, along side civilian rugby, means you have to stay consistent as much as possible. Putting in the work in the gym as well as the extras on the pitch really helped me cope with the demands and expectations of the senior team.
What aspects of your game did you feel you needed the most improvement to succeed at the senior XV level?
Being critical of your own game is something that I think is incredibly important in developing yourself on and off the pitch. This helps me to improve my understanding of the game as well as my understanding of the role that my position entails. One example of this would be the set piece. As a hooker your set piece work can always improve no matter the level.
How did you plan to adjust to the faster pace and higher intensity of senior rugby matches?
Being around the senior camp the year before but not getting on the pitch for Inter Service really gave me the desire to work hard to try and get my first cap. 2023 really helped me see what was expected of me if I wanted to get that cap. I believe this year I came with a different mentality which helped me eventually make my senior debut.
In what ways have your coaches and teammates helped you integrate into the senior squad, both on and off the field?
My coaches and colleagues I’ve played with the last three years in the Under-23s have put me in a great place to manage the transition. Being in a more senior position for the last two years has helped me develop my leadership skills and made me confident in my own ability to be able to take that step up. The lads from the senior squad really welcomed me into the team in my first year. The advice and experience I gained from them has helped me, especially when going back to playing for the Under-23s.
What are your goals now that you've made the transition to the senior XV?
My goal is to help lead the Under-23s to an Inter Service Championship victory this year. I also want to be that more senior figure in the team, so any of the new players feel comfortable in coming to me for any advice, whether that’s on or off the rugby field.
Photography (c) RAF Rugby Union