Last week (before these crazy lockdowns) I had a great time visiting the Reds Super W team's training down at Ballymore. Before they got stuck into on field training, I had the pleasure of interviewing the teams lock Annabelle Codey. We caught up about everything rugby related, including an explanation for rugby new-comers about her particular role on the field. She also shared some advice that her Dad has given her over the years and her own advice for up-and-coming players.
Since we caught up in Brisbane, the Reds have played twice - beating the Melbourne Rebels 17-12 and as well as the President's XV squad 54-5. The Reds are set to square off once again, against the Waratahs in the Super W final! Make sure you tune in for what's set to be an EPIC rematch. With the Wallaroos games coming up later in the year, now is the best time to be an Australian rugby fan!
The Queensland Reds play the NSW Waratahs in the Super W final at 1:30pm this Saturday!! You can watch the game live on Stan Sport.
What do you think the teams biggest takeaway was, after last weeks [round 1] game against New South Wales?
I think for us, we probably let nerves get the better of us. We had a lot of debutants and new faces and I think the damage was done in that first half. We did come back in the second half, but yeah the damage was done in the first half. So we really want to come out, have a sense of urgency and be aggressive off the ball and very “mongrel”. It didn’t go to plan last week, so that’s what we’re really focusing on this week.
Is lock your favourite position to play? Also, have you played in many other positions in the past?
Yes, it is. I like being in the scrum, particularly in the second row. If I could have a choice, I’d love to have a run in the center’s, but I don’t think they’ll ever put me there, I’ve always played lock. Sometimes I’ll drop to flank [number 6 or 7] or sometimes at club, I’ll drop to number 8 if they’re short, but predominantly I’ve played at lock, that’s my position.
With the level that you and the team are playing at, I’m sure rugby is winning new fans. How would you describe the “lock” position to someone that’s reading that’s new to rugby and will be watching you this weekend?
That’s a good question! Tom, good one. A fair few of my mates don’t know much about rugby. They're always saying “what are you doing in that eight?” We’re a “set-piece” player. I didn’t jump in the line outs over the weekend, because it was a bit too windy but we always have to dominate the “set-piece” plays, in the line-outs, in the scrum, we’re the engine room, pushing out front-rowers to get the job done and then, off the ball, we want to be devastating ball carriers and just work hard. We’re very similar to our flankers, but I think the locks work harder (laughs).
Last year, you helped start the Women’s side at Easts rugby club and went on to win the premiership that same year! Congratulations!
Thank you!
Can you tell me a bit about that journey?
Yeah. Previously, I was at Wests for two seasons. But my families always been close to Easts, my brother played there for juniors and I know dad coached there, so I said if they ever think about starting a woman’s team there, I’ll go back. So we went back, started the team and it was just a whirlwind. We played a lot better than we thought and we obviously took out the premiership. It was a really, really surreal season - everything happened so quickly. But the girls worked really hard and came together. It was just awesome.
I love hearing about people’s rugby journeys. How did you first start playing the game?
So I was a bit of a netballer, I wasn’t into contact too much. Then in 2016 or 17, Courtney Horan, that’s Tim Horan’s daughter, said come along to a training session and try it. So I said “yep, I’ll give it a go.” So I started playing Sevens and Tens and then they said “do you want to have a crack at Fifteens”. I was a bit intimidated, but I gave it a go and never look back!
I was a bit late to the party, because I went to an all girls school and it wasn’t really around, which sucks (but now it is). But yeah, once I started playing, I just kept going and here we are!
I interviewed your Dad a few years ago and we had a great chat. What’s the best piece of advice he’s given you?
Probably, when I play, leave nothing out there, leave nothing in the tank whether that’s for 20 minutes of 80 minutes. He always says “100% work rate”. And I agree with that, because sometimes I can slack off, so that’s good advice... and also be an absolute menace. Pretty much, bash the heck out of the opposition (laughs) because Dad was always an aggressive player so he always tells me to do that. and he always lets me know after games if I’ve done well or not. But he’s the only one that can tell me that, he gives me very honest feedback. But yeah, you’re wearing the Queensland colours so just get out there and play like a Queenslander.
What’s some advice you’d give to rugby players, both boys and girls, that want to some day play for their state?
I guess, it seriously is a game for all different sizes, backgrounds, it’s a very welcoming game. I’ve always found that. So if you’re thinking of playing and trying out at your local club, just do it and see how you go. I think you’ll want to come back. And for me, I’ve been in the squad for a few seasons, but never cracked it [the main squad squad]. So perseverance as well, just always keep working and never give up.
Thanks heaps for your time. All the best for your trip down to Coffs Harbour! If I can’t be there to watch, you know I’ll be watching the games on Stan.
Oh thanks Tom! I know we’re going to beat the Waratahs for you.
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