FAN Q&A | Darcy Graham

7 Feb 2019

Darcy Graham became the 1098th player to represent Scotland when he took the field as replacement in Scotland's autumn test match against Wales in 2018. The Edinburgh wing previously represented his country at U18 and U20 level as well as Scotland 7s.

How did you first get into playing rugby?

I started when I was in P6 of Stirches Primary School. I wasn’t very good at football, and they had football or rugby, so rugby was my first choice. We’d have training every Friday night and play on Saturdays. My Mum always said she’d never have a boy playing rugby and look where I am now.

What did it feel like to make your debut for Scotland in November?

It was a dream come true for me and my family. It’s something I’ve worked very hard towards and my Mum and Dad have put a lot of hours in driving me about so to do it for them was even more special.

I was sitting on the bench and Hoggy said to me beforehand, ‘always stay involved in the game even though you’re not on the pitch because it’ll fly by’ so I tried to stay in the moment but when I got on those ten minute did just fly by, but I loved it.

What has been your highlight so far of playing for Edinburgh?

Probably making my debut was a big one against London Irish at BT Murrayfield, but also the way the boys are going this season is great to be part of.

What skills do you think are most important for your position and how do you work on them?

High ball is definitely a big one, so it’s about repetition of taking high ball in the air, then getting some pressure put on you. At Edinburgh kick chase is a huge part of our game so it’s all timing and generating that power to get up as high as you can.

Do you get fed up with people asking about your size compared to opposition players?

I wouldn’t say fed up but I think I’ve proven now it doesn’t matter, I can go out and compete with the big boys and put my body on the line and I can do the job as well as anybody.

What’s the best career advice you’ve been given?

Just to keep working hard and remember that nothing comes easy, so if you want it, go and get it.

Do you miss playing 7s?

Yes, especially when it’s on TV – it’s tough to watch when you see all your pals out there playing and I do miss it, it’s such a good game. I learnt a lot last year playing 7s – it improved my game, especially defensively.

You will potentially be playing in front of capacity crowds at BT Murrayfield. What difference does the support of the fans make?

On the 7s circuit I used to try and shut it out but the crowds have been growing at Edinburgh, they’ve been really loud, and the support away at Newcastle and Toulon was massive. The crowds are a big part of it so I try and feed off their energy.

What do you do in your spare time outside of rugby?

Sleep and eat.

What are your future ambitions?

I just want to play as much as I can for Scotland and try and get into the starting squad. That’s my next goal; I’ve had my first cap and now I want to start at BT Murrayfield.