Sydney Club Rugby for Alain

Club President Greg Taylor recently caught up with Club legend Alain Miriallakis.

Greg – Alain tell us about why you signed with Norths Rugby and how have you found the Club and the players there so far?
Alain – I signed with Norths because the coach was also the coach for the Sydney Rays. After the NRC, he said that he will call me to see what I wanted to do next year. After playing at that level, I wanted to keep doing it and Sydney is how to get there, as I was lucky to get a call last year. I have found a great club with a great atmosphere and good bunch of player. I’m really happy to be here.
Greg – While you have only played trial matches how are you finding the quality of Rugby in the Shute Shield? How big a step up is it from NHRU standard?
Alain – the quality is really good, a lot of good players in every team. The level is a step higher from Newcastle, obviously any player who wants to play in the best amateur championship in Australia knows Sydney is the way to go so a lot of good player around.
Greg – Obviously, the standard of play is higher but I would assume training also. Tell us about the commitment required to play 1st or 2nd grade in Sydney.
Alain – It’s easy, you need to be at training every time, on time, and give 100% because the numbers are so strong and with the quality of players around, your position is never assured so you have to keep working for it. There is always someone pushing behind to make you give your best.
Greg – When does you season start and based on your form in the trials do you think you will be in the firsts team.
Alain – The season starts on the 1rst April. I hope I can be on the first team.
Greg – I know a lot of people at The Waratahs were sad to see you start playing in Sydney but were also glad you were pursuing an opportunity. Will we see you back at Waratah in the future?
Alain – I don’t think so, I think this will be my last year, every year is getting harder and harder on my body and also, my priorities have changed with time. I gave rugby a good run and have really enjoy it, but it’s time for me to focus on family more. I still want to thank The Waratahs for everything they did for me and I was really happy to be part of the club.

Subsequent to this interview, Alain did make the starting first grade team and played is first game for Norths against Warringah. Norths won 28-26. Norths also won their second match against West Harbour 50 to 7.

We all at Waratah wish Alain the best for his rugby in 2017.