How big should an openside flanker be?

Question

I'm 16 and I love rugby and have played since i can remember. I'm an openside flanker and I've always been pretty good. I currently play for my county at a representative level, but obviosly want to get further. At trials for an acadamy I was told I'm a very good player but not big enough. Just want to know how tall I should be, and iif you think it matters. I am 5'10 and quite well built.

Answer 1

it doesnt matter that much but since Openside is still a foward, you will have to be a bit bigger. Although, fitness is the key for the loosies.

Answer 2

an open-side doesn't need to have size, he/she just needs to be fit, have a bit of wheels (speed)

and an eye to retrieve the ball!

Answer 3

The coach that told you your too small should be banned from coaching. Size doesn't matter a f#@k especially at open side. Fitness and speed are the important thing for an openside.

Seriously, take no notice of what that coach said and concentrate on the things you can influence such as your fitness, speed, and technique.

Have a good season.

Answer 4

As a flanker you don't need to be that big. If you can hold your own at flank than size should not matter.  A lot of flankers are not very big players, many are the same size as backs.

Answer 5

yeah thats a good height and it doesn't matter about how tall or big you are

Answer 6

Martyn Williams (Wales) is one of the best opensides in the game, he is 6' and 15st 6lb (98kg).

That said, if the academy people say you are too small, ask them HOW MUCH TOO SMALL. let THEM tell you what they are aiming for.

Answer 7

as long as u r fit it doesn't matter how big u r look at Neil back