20 Questions: Simon Hammersley – Newcastle full-back

How's pre-season going?
The first week was pretty testing for everyone but we got into the swing of things and have brought in some skills sessions.
Have you talked about goals yet?
It's a bit early for that but we've started looking at attacking and defensive shape so everyone is on the same page and we can hit the ground running unlike last year.
Is it easier to focus with a short pre-season?
Training was less intense last summer because we had 16 weeks to get ready. It's much shorter and sharper this time around and I think it's better because you can see the end of the tunnel from the off.
What's the pre-season schedule?
We are two weeks into our fitness block. We have another two weeks of it and then a week off mid-July. Then it'll be all about gearing up for the start of the season with a lot more rugby.
When's your first game?
We've got a double-header against Rotherham and Doncaster on August 13 and there's also the Premiership Sevens beforehand where some of the boys will be involved.
How do you look back at last season?
It was disappointing not to kick on as we thought we should. We don't want to settle for those lower places in the table anymore so we're working hard to make sure we're ready to go from the first game.
How important are the first few games?
The first block before the European break will set the tone for the season. If you get off to a good start you're looking at the teams you can overtake above you rather looking over your shoulder at the bottom like last year.
Any drastic improvements needed?
I don't think there's anything drastic to change. Looking at our results, we were close in a lot of the games we lost. We're looking at our skills a lot to make sure every single player can play the game we want to play.
What about the Kingston Park fortress?
We went unbeaten for about two months at home last season claiming some big scalps. It's all about teams finding it difficult to come up here.
How do you take that away form home?
We were disappointed with our away form last season and it was the same the year before. We're not too sure why it keeps happening but we need to improve because away points are the difference between the top and bottom of the table.
How was the off-season?
I went away for a couple a weeks which was nice and then when I got back I got called up by the Saxons. It was great to be involved with them.
Were you hoping to be there from the start?
I thought I had a fairly good season even if I let myself down in some games. I was in with a shout but Mike Haley had a strong season with Sale and he deserved his place.
Is a Saxons place the next target for you?
It was nice to know I'm in the mix. Hopefully I can play well for the Falcons again this season and push on with England next season.
Did you know where you stood before the summer?
Not at all. It all happened really quickly. I got a call on the Saturday after the first game at lunch time and I was on the plane by 9.30 that evening. It was a case of get my boots and passport and head down to Heathrow.
What a journey to go from University to England in two years?
Not being picked up at an early age probably worked for me because I was just playing for fun. My degree was my main focus so I had nothing to lose when I joined Falcons and it worked out.
If not rugby what would you be doing?
I studied Economics so I'd probably be down in London working in finance.
Favourite cheat meal?
I have always been a healthy eater even if took a bit of adjusting with the supplements in the professional game. Beer doesn't help recovery that well!
Three special dinner guests?
The Have I Got News for You presenter Ian Hislop, Jonny Wilkinson and actor Leonardo Dicaprio.
Best and worst banter at the Falcons?
Belisario Agulla is pretty funny unlike Moritz Botha.
Best and worst dressed?
Paddy Ryan is the worst but Ben Harris dresses well.