Every fortnight we go behind the scenes to bring you closer to the Warriors players.
This week, we speak to rising talent Max Stelling, who has recently signed a full-time contract after impressing in the academy.
The 20-year-old centre talks life at Warriors, ambitions and darts…
Age:20
Warriors apps/pts: 15/40
Country:England
Favourite film: Big Daddy
Favourite food: Pepperoni pizza
Favourite band: Red Hot Chili Peppers
How is life at Warriors?
It’s hard work. The training schedule is pretty intense and we are trying to get fit and ready as best we can every weekend. Everyone is working hard and focusing on each game as they come.
Do you feel like you’ve improved a great deal under this year’s coaching set-up?
I think I’ve developed a lot. The support available for me is massive. Last year I was fortunate enough to go on loan at Championship club Jersey which helped me but the attention to detail here this season is immense. I’ve had some good games and some bad ones too but for Dean Ryan to keep giving me opportunities and trying to develop me is huge and I’m very grateful for that.
How do you think you can impress Dean further and win yourself a starting berth in the Premiership?
I’ve just got to show some more consistency in the areas I have been working on. Dean knows what I’m capable of and he knows my strengths so I’ve just got to be more consistent across the park.
How did you first get into rugby?
I first started playing at just six-years-old for Moseley RFC. I’ve always played there other than when I was at school and I came straight to Warriors after that.
How would you describe your path to success so far?
I’ve was very fortunate at school. We did very well in a cup competition and I was spotted by some coaches and ended up getting offered a contract at Warriors.
Are you still hoping to get an opportunity in the England Under 20s for the Six Nations?
I’m in the squad but I haven’t been involved yet with some of the other guys doing a really top job. I just have to keep working hard and wait for an opportunity.
What are your targets now?
In the short-term my aim is to get as many games as I can between now and the end of the season and to keep us in the Premiership. I would love to be in the England Under 20 squad for this summer’s IRB Junior World Championship but there’s not much else I can do at the moment. I just have to keep training, stay fit and wait for my chance.
What do you get up to away from rugby?
I spend a lot of time with my brother and his Labrador in Birmingham just chilling out and also seeing my friends. I also like playing table tennis and darts but it takes me a long time to get round 501!
Who is your best friend at Warriors?
Ben Howard because he’d want me to say that!
What made you sign a new contract at Warriors?
The opportunity to keep progressing is a big thing for me. In my head I have to keep on working and that is very important. The intent of the current management and coaching staff is very appealing to me and the opportunity to play a part in that is ultimately the reason I signed a new contract.