Former Wales international Andy Williams has spoken of his desire to learn off Head Coach Richard Hill and come top of the scrum half class – after graduating off the field following the completion of his University degree.
Williams made the move to Warriors in the summer of a one-year deal and has spoken of his desire to take his ‘second chance’ at the game.
The 29-year-old took time out of pre-season training this week to graduate in Sports Management from Swansea University and plans to continue his studies in the future.
But for now he insists rugby must come first and that means winning the battle for the No.9 shirt at Sixways.
“I’m graduating and that is great for me,” revealed Williams. “The season I had a couple of years ago really opened my eyes.
“They were opened to real life and so I went back to University to make sure I finished my degree.
“I couldn’t finish it when I was full-time rugby so last season was great in that I was able to finish it and now progress.
“To come out of my final exam and sign for Worcester was such a tremendous feeling. I plan to do a Masters, but first and foremost is my rugby and this is a second chance for me and something that I can’t wait to get stuck into, I can’t wait for the games to start.
“I would eventually like to get into lecturing and pass on what I have learnt through to the next generation.
“I’m sure I could try and practice my lecturing with the scrum halves at Sixways this year – I’m sure they will give me plenty back though!”
Williams takes the position of experienced professional at Warriors with young scrum halves Jonny Arr, Louis Silver and Ollie Frost all competing with him for a starting spot come August.
The Welshman, who has made five appearances for his country, is keen to pass on his knowledge when possible to what he has branded ‘cracking prospects’ in the camp.
But, first and foremost, he wants the starting jersey and to show the Worcester faithful what he can bring to the team.
He said: “I guess I am the elder guy in the scrum half department as we have some cracking prospects with Jonny, Ollie and Louis.
“They are tremendous to have around for me, hopefully I can bring them on and I’m sure they will give me a good push to get better. It’s good competition, they have plenty of energy and I know that will rub off on me.
“Ultimately I have come here to win that number nine jersey and I will do anything I can to play. I train as hard as anyone and it’s something I am looking forward to.
“The challenge here is immense, when you come into the club you realise that the past is the past and what has been has been. Whatever position you are in your reputation counts for nothing – that is really refreshing in a new club.”
A big draw for Williams was the chance to work at Warriors under new Head Coach Hill – a man who needs little introduction to the Welsh scrum half.
Williams started his professional career at Bath where Hill retains cult hero status after making 248 games over an 11-year period.
“I started at Bath and the legend of Richard still lives on there, it was passed down to me what a player he was so it’s a real privilege to work with him,” admitted Williams.
“It was something I was immediately looking forward to when I signed for Warriors – the prospect of working with him further throughout the season will be really good for my game.
“The squad quality here is tremendous, the feeling around the players is very encouraging and that has been installed by Richard Hill.
“The positive spirit is very evident and the pre-season has been enjoyable, and when you enjoy it you tend to work that bit harder.”
Watch Andy Williams and the Warriors in action in 2010/11. Call the Warriors Box Office for information on Season Tickets or click HERE for more information.