The former Newbury, Hungerford and Reading Abbey junior headed to Wales after captaining Berkshire Under 18s, but is now back in Berkshire and keen to make an impact while studying for a PGCE in teaching at Reading University.
Having captained Cardiff’s Met Welsh Premiership team in his final year as well as featuring in BUCS Super Rugby before an MCL injury in March forced him out for 11 weeks, Max is determined to make an impact.
He explained: “I view myself as a team player who sees work rate as key part of my game, due to liking to carry a lot and dominate in the contact area.
“Defence is another key area for me and I’m excited to test myself in a new environment – BUCS Super Rugby is fast paced whereas the Welsh Prem is very, hard and physical, and National One looks like it combines the two.
“I want to keep pushing my rugby as far as I can, and it’s hugely exciting to meet new people, a new team and get into pre-season.”
A climb through the ranks
Reflecting on his time across the River Severn, Max’s determination shines through as he explained his University choice, stating: “Wales is known for its rugby and I was looking for courses which could offer BUCS, and Cardiff Met gave me an unconditional offer so I was pretty sold after that.
“First year I didn’t come in with any Academy background so I played 4ths and 5ths – which was a good experience – but then in second year I moved into the performance squad.
“I got a good run of games in the first team after Christmas before doing my MCL, but I didn’t want that to be my last game for Met and to make it back for the Mallet Cup final in May felt like a big achievement.
“I’m also motivated because I did a lot of rehab while injured in the end of last season so I’ve effectively had an extended pre-season and now I can’t wait.”
‘This is the right thing for me’
As a Berkshire boy Max reiterated his joy at arriving at OBR, revealing it was a Park House colleague who helped open the door while going onto comment on the style of leadership which has seen him take on captaincy in recent years.
He said: “I went to school with Ollie Cullum who was playing in the Centaurs, and he put me in touch with Harry Stapleton and in turn Seb (Reynolds), and after chatting to him I just knew this was the right thing for me.
“I captained Berkshire Under 18s for a few game, coaches seem to believe the way I work for the team is motivating as I’ll put my body on the line and that’s the way I’ve tried to pull people along.
“I enjoy trying to set a standard and energy, but it’s also exciting to now come into a new environment where there are guys who have more knowledge and hopefully, I can learn from that.”
And in the knowledge of Rams’ ever-growing support base, Max ended by saying what it would mean to run out at OBR, commenting: “I’ve watched a few games and seen the support.
“If I can earn the chance, it would be unbelievable – it’s a huge inspiring factor because it looks an incredible crowd who have been pushing the team towards the top of the league. Hopefully this can be the year.”
*Welcome again Max and we look forward to seeing you on the pitch!
