Q&A | Euan Ferrie
From early days at East Kilbride to his first professional contract - meet Euan Ferrie.
When did you start playing rugby and who introduced you to the sport?
I started out when I was four years old, I think. My dad used to play for East Kilbride – he was a flanker as well, runs in the family! – so he was the one that first took me down to minis down there. I remember going into the changing room with him as a wee kid, that’s probably my first rugby memory really.
How important was your time at East Kilbride both as a rugby player and growing up?
Massively important. My dad was also the coach when I was going through the minis section, so it played a big role for me. They also gave me the platform to take my first steps towards being a professional journey, so I’m hugely grateful to the club for everything.
We’ve seen you play both second-row and back-row. Do you have a preference?
When I played second-row, my ears were getting pretty bad, so I’d say I definitely prefer playing at six now! I’ve had them drained far too many times already, thanks…
What kind of role has the academy played in your development?
It’s been brilliant for me. To be able to come in and work alongside the pros here at Scotstoun, see what they do and learn from them gives us a great boost. Even just watching them train, you learn so many wee different bits and pieces on different parts of the game.
Who have been the main role models for you so far in the squad?
Probably Ryan Wilson, I’d say – he’s taken me under his wing a bit this season and he’s taught me a lot already. He’s been working on things like my lineout, and my carrying, just giving me tips and pointers. He’s been great.
There’s a good crop of young talent at Scotstoun right now. Does that make it easier for you to settle in?
It definitely does. We’re all good mates and we’ve all played together through the age grades for the most part, and we’re all keen to help each other succeed. It’s a great feeling, because you don’t feel on your own at any point, whether that’s in the gym, in training, or just around the club. We all want each other to do well and push each other on.
You’ve also played for Boroughmuir Bears in the FOSROC Super6 – how useful has that been for you as a stepping stone into the professional game?
My physicality has definitely increased as a result of playing in the Super6, for sure. Every week you’re playing against grown men who are heavier than you, so you learn to evade their defence and work through the contact. It’s been a big learning experience for me.
You made your professional debut in the win over Benetton in October. How big a thrill was that for you?
It was such an unreal feeling. I was pretty nervous on the bench to be honest, but once I got on it was brilliant. I loved every minute of it. I got plenty of ball as well, which was pretty good too! That definitely helped me feel comfortable in the game pretty quickly.
A version of this interview first appeared in Issue 15 of Warrior, the Official Magazine of Glasgow Warriors. To read more, click here