My other life: JJ Murray, Davies Group

How did your interest in rugby start?

I originally started playing rugby when I was six, but gave it up to play football instead. My dad and older brothers still played rugby and after many years I changed sports.

I couldn’t deal with the diving in football any longer. At 16, I joined the Ashford rugby team in the position of fly-half, the playmaker of the game with a strong kick.

How did you build up your skills?

I learnt a lot from my older brothers who already played rugby, but my dad was a huge influence in my development. My childhood garden backed onto the local rugby pitch, so he’d take me to practice for hours every single week.

Now I have a vigorous training programme with a daily gym plan, plus group training three times a week, including a sprint training session with GB Olympic athlete Jack Green. I’ve put a lot of hours in over the years but I still have a lot to learn.

What have been the highlights of your rugby career so far?

Playing against England Sevens team was a huge experience. Being flown to different countries for tournaments is amazing. But playing at Twickenham in the County Championship final and having friends watch on their TVs at home was unbelievable.

I recently played a tournament in Milan for the Sirs, and it was during this tournament I was scouted for my current club, Canterbury RFC.

How has the experience changed you?

Rugby is an incredible sport; it teaches you a lot of life skills, such as communication, working as a team and learning about other cultures. I’ve made friends all over the world in places like New Zealand, Australia and South Africa, to name a few.

Any crossover between rugby and your insurance day job?

Rarely, except the occasional black eye or limp, which makes a good talking point for the customers on a Monday morning.