For any country sportsperson, moving to the city to explore more opportunities is no mean feat. Fletcher Rose has recently made such a transition and is looking to make a mark in the nation’s capital.
Fletcher Rose’s story is one of perseverance, passion, and the unwavering pursuit of excellence.
Starting from humble origins in country rugby union, Rose progressed to securing a sought-after position on the Brumbies’ development squad in Canberra and subsequently left his mark in first-grade rugby with the Tuggeranong Vikings.
Q: Fletcher you recently moved to Canberra to play for the Tuggeranong Vikings and also join the Brumbies development squad. How have you found it so far?
A: Well, settling into Canberra and joining the Tuggeranong Vikings and the Brumbies development squad has been an absolute whirlwind, but I’m loving every minute of it.
I am incredibly fortunate to be able to come to Canberra to pursue my rugby career and it has been fantastic being surrounded by like-minded people with the same passion as myself.
Q: How has the adjustment been from the rural setting to the urban environment of Canberra, both on and off the field, what’s the biggest difference?
A: I reckon it’s the pace of everything.
In Orange, things move at a bit of a slower rhythm and with less structure. But here in Canberra, it’s all go and the quality of players is of course heightened.
I’m loving every minute of it though, it’s a great challenge and all the boys have been so welcoming which is great.
Off the field, just getting everything in place to make the rugby fall into line is a pretty big adjustment.
I am also finishing my Bachelor in Sports and Exercise Science which is a challenge in itself. But I think I am managing study, training and other life challenges well.
I’ve settled in now though, once you have the foundations around you in terms of a place to live and all of that type of thing, it is an enjoyable experience.
Everyone around me has been so supportive so far, so I’m of course very grateful.
Q: Have there been any challenges or surprises in your transition to playing at a higher level with the Vikings and Brumbies?
A: The speed and intensity of training sessions took a bit of getting used to, but I’m not sure that was a surprise as such.
There have been a few surprises along the way with a few niggling injuries that haven’t helped, but that’s just a part of the game I guess.
All of the coaching staff have been very supportive but also very stern with what they expect of me and all the boys but I love the challenge and look forward to making my mark with the season approaching.
Q: What are your goals and aspirations for the upcoming season?
A: I’m honestly just aiming to make a real impact with both the Tuggeranong Vikings and the Brumbies development squad.
Ultimately, I want to climb the ladder to the big time but I just want to help Vikings win games of footy and play my best.
I went up to Brisbane with the Vikings boys and played in the National Club Championships. We didn’t come away with the chocolates on that occasion but just experiencing that environment was just a great experience.
Q: How do you find balancing your rugby commitments with any other aspects of your life, particularly considering the move to Canberra?
A: Balancing rugby commitments with other aspects of life can be a bit tricky, especially with the move to Canberra, but I’ve got a great support network around me, including my teammates, coaches, friends and family.
It’s all about staying organised and prepared I guess. Just making sure you have things planned out and up to date is really important.
Q: What advice would you give to young players who aspire to make a similar transition from local rugby clubs to professional teams like the Brumbies?
A: For any young players looking to make a similar transition to the professional rugby scene, my advice would be to work hard, do the little one percenters and just be well prepared.
I guess the other thing is just surrounding yourself with people who believe in you and push you to be the best you can be.
Lastly, I believe that enjoying the game for what it is and the enjoying experience rugby brings along the way because I’ve always played my best footy when I’m enjoying myself.