Players / My World

Tom
Varndell

/ Leicester Tigers and England

With a nickname like muff-licker, the premiership’s most lethal weapon was destined for stardom in one area of public service. Doesn’t like the wind & rain, Varndell would much rather walk out to Ini Kamooze’s ‘Hotstepper’ and having scored with his first touch on England debut, the Leicester Tigers wing doesn’t like to hang around - as a 16-year-old he clocked 10.9 for the 100m on grass.

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You’ve either got it or you haven’t. You can’t coach speed. You can get more powerful but you can’t get much quicker. I’m very lucky to have a gift.

 

I feel very lucky to have this opportunity To play rugby as a job and especially with the atmosphere at the club and the people I’m around. It’s amazing!

 

I’ve loved doing it since I was 9-10 years old. It’s not been easy, the last year or so has been very tough both on and off the pitch but I’m back enjoying myself and I’ve learned a lot more in that respect.

 

I’ve had to be a lot more patient. I don’t live life in the fast lane anymore. I used to play computer games, read magazines or watch television but having a kid has sharpened my focus within rugby and at home.

 

It’s given me a much-needed kick up the arse. Having a little kiddie has given me something extra to focus on. Life is not just rugby, rugby, rugby and I enjoy that responsibility. It has calmed me down a bit and it is good for me. Some people have academia, some have business ideas and I’ve got a family to work towards and something for my own. It’s nice when I can give him a feed.