Lock prospect Max Williams turns 22 today (Thursday) so we looked back at an interview with the Academy ace from 'Fired Up' earlier this season... Happy Birthday Max!
Max Williams has vowed to keep learning from the senior pros at Dragons as he continues his rugby education.
Highly-rated Williams, 22, was first flung into the senior ranks at the end at the start of 2017/18 and has caught the eye this campaign with nine appearances in all competitions.
The former Wales Under-20s lock, who can also operate at blindside flanker, is an imposing figure in the tight and powerful option in the boilerhouse.
However, it is brains and not brawn that he is targeting to continue his upward curve.
"I’ve learned a lot more from being around the senior boys,” he said.
“Physically I have got better, but the main aspect has been the learning and applying that to my game and being confident.
"That has helped me progress. It's about doing your homework, seeing the bigger picture and applying that to how we play.
"I am learning from the likes of Shanksey (Lewis Evans) and Cory (Hill) – where they are now is where I want to get to. I am learning from the senior players, but I still want to try and push them.”
Williams, originally from Pill, was in the year below Dragons and Wales tighthead Leon Brown at St Joseph's High School while World Cup star Aaron Wainwright is his age-group.
He actually made his regional debut five weeks before Wainwright, but his progress last season was hindered by a concussion that he is pleased to have now completely overcome with guidance from the medics at Dragons
“I’m looking forward and excited by what is ahead. You can see how we have played that it has been enjoyable for everybody and we are happy with how things have gone," he added.
"Dean (Ryan) wants us to play high-tempo rugby and for boys like me I don't have to think too much, I can just go forward. It's all about working hard."
Physically I have got better, but the main aspect has been the learning and applying that to my game and being confident...
