Kuenzle relishing new challenge with Warriors

The 28-year-old arrived in Glasgow five weeks ago following a spell with Western Force, and has quickly settled into his new surroundings as he prepares for his first season in Warriors colours.

“It’s been actually pretty smooth sailing,” said Kuenzle. “The boys have been welcoming, Franco and the coaching staff have been great, so yeah, I’ve got no drama so far. It’s been unreal. Loved it.”

Having spent the majority of his career in Australia, Kuenzle felt the time was right to take on a new challenge, with Glasgow’s recent record and ambitions making the club an attractive destination.

“I’m 28 now, so I’m at that age where I could stay or experience something new, and I think I was at that stage where I wanted to do that,” he explained.

“Obviously Glasgow came calling and it’s hard not to look at the way they’ve been going the last four years, and obviously just missing out this year. There’s a big drive for the boys to finish it off.”

“And also with the European stuff as well, that was a big eye-opener for me. To obviously be a part of a group where there’s about 19 boys in the Scottish squad, it’s world class and we obviously want to be a part of that.”

The utility back has already been working across the midfield in pre-season, with his ability to operate at fly-half, centre and across the back three giving Head Coach Franco Smith options as he integrates into the squad.

While Kuenzle admits he has a preference for playing at inside centre, he is focused on making an impact wherever he is selected.

“I do prefer playing a bit of 12,” he said. “Obviously I started my career at 10 and I’ve got that body that can go anywhere.

“But to be fair, if I’m out on the field, I’m grateful and to be able to do a job will be what I need to do at the end of the day.

“I’m just here for an opportunity and if I play good rugby, it’ll take care of itself. Wherever Franco wants me, I’ll put my hand up for it.”

Kuenzle is also relishing the opportunity to work under Smith, with the Australian already impressed by the culture he has encountered at Scotstoun.

“He’s really set the tone and it’s quite easy to get on board with what he wants and it’s easy to follow,” he said.

“Obviously the young boys coming through, you can tell that something must be building here and it’s going to stay for a while.”

The new Warrior is also keen to bring an attacking edge to the Glasgow backline, highlighting his skills and versatility as key strengths.

“I like attacking, running rugby. I like taking the line on with the ball in hand,” he said.

“I really pride myself on my skills and my skill set, my catch-pass and my kicking game. I also try and bring some physicality wherever I can, but I like to work hard for the boys and obviously put my hand up.

“It’s obviously pretty cliché to say, but just put my hand up and rip in.”

Kuenzle has also been enjoying his first experience of life in Scotland, with his partner making the move alongside him.

“It’s part of life, I guess, and part of being a rugby player. You’re not sure where you’re going to be or where you’re going to end up in a couple of years,” he said.

“So I’m just grateful to be here in a great club. I’m looking forward to the opportunity.”

And while the Scottish weather represents a change from his native Australia, Kuenzle is determined to embrace his new surroundings.

“I’ve actually heard really good things about it,” he said. “Obviously it’s very cold, it’s a different sort of cold than what I’m going to be used to, but it’s like any other thing. It’s a new experience and I’m obviously not coming in with a bad frame of mind.

“I’m just going to embrace it and enjoy what Scotland’s got to give.”