What languages did you learn at school?
Welsh and German
Did you ever think when you were back in school that you would
travel so much, or find languages to be useful?
No
How are you finding life in France? What are the main differences
between life in Narbonne and life in Wales?
The weather is warmer, lunches are longer and the lifestyle is more
laid back.
How are you coping with French lessons?
Very well, having one a week and picking up loads off the other
players.
Do you have any funny stories about the problems and misunderstandings
(communication problems) that can arise when you are abroad?
The boys told me to accent 'Merci beaucoup' differently. I later
found out I was saying 'Thank you, nice bum!'
Would you recommend that young sportspeople learn a foreign
language? What would you say to school pupils who are considering
dropping their foreign language at the age of 14?
You never know what doors it will open for you in the future
Do you think that being able to speak some Welsh helps when
learning another language?
I don't speak much Welsh, but the sentence constructions are similar
and also some words.
What's the best thing about being able to work abroad?
The climate
...and the worst thing?
Being away from the family
Do you know of any other rugby players who have mastered a foreign
language?
Lots of overseas players in France speak French and many of
the French speak English.
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