Where to play?

Question
Hey mate, just wanted some advice on where you think I should play positionally. I have never previously played rugby, though have been strength and conditioning club and rep teams for a few years, so I know what the deal is. My background is sprinting and rowing to state/national level.
I love to work hard, and am 25year old, 90kg, 6 foot 3 tall. I have previously been asked to play wing througout high school becuase of my speed, but I know I don't have the handling skills to be an effective back. I have always liked the idea of flanker, or maybe 2nd row-for lineout height, but would like to know where you would stick someone like myself. I am looking to play lower grade and have some fun and have a sense of purpose for my current training.
cheers, M

Answer
G'day Matt, sorry for taking so long.

It would appear to me that flanker is a good fit for you. I suggest blind side the emphasis is more on defense so handling skills will not show up as much as #8 or open side. You will need to really get those skills up as ball skills are essential.

Look at my past answers on tackling they are great for new players. Also any subject heading of flanker. Really sponge off the players you know even to the point of having a true mentor that hold you accountable to goals.

Keep a players journal to keep track of strengths and weaknesses for games and training. It will be something to look back on is 20 years from now as well.

Get as much video of your own games and analize them compare your game to that of pros to learn more.

Let me know if you have any questions, some good links:

Srummaging:



My favourite: http://www.coachingrugby.com/rugby/coaching/unitskills/scrum/buildingthescrum.ht...



http://www.usarugby.org/media/EDocs/scrum.pdf





http://www.texasyouthrugby.com/download/748/docs/Building_the_scrum.pdf



All technique: Scrum, Running up the Ball, Tackling



http://www.rugbysmart.co.nz/plan/technique.html



http://www.rugbytactics.com/



http://www.talkrugbyunion.co.uk/



Skills and Technique, video:



http://www.joberrugby.com/



Fitness:



http://www.sport-fitness-advisor.com/in particular speed and power: http://www.sport-fitness-advisor.com/plyometric.html