I started out playing mini rugby when I was 11 or 12 years of age.

But it wasn't until fairly recently I realised maybe I could make a living out of playing.

Rugby was always more of a hobby for me - something I enjoyed doing.

I think I played a bit of everywhere to begin with - even prop!

Then, when I was about 14 my family moved from Tenby in west Wales to live in London.

I came up through the age groups at London Welsh before joining Saracens. By now I'm back in Wales playing for Cardiff Blues.

During my time with Saracens I lined up alongside former Australia centre Tim Horan.

Tim had won over 80 caps for his country and for a newcomer like me to partner someone with that sort of experience was invaluable.

Catch me if you can!

A lot of the coaching I got from him actually came during matches.

He'd guide me through a game, giving me little pointers every now and again.

Out on the pitch. I reckon that's the best environment to learn.

The highlight of my career so far was winning my first senior cap for Wales during the summer tour of Japan in 2001.

My dad won four caps for Wales back in the 1970s, so it was great to be able to follow in his footsteps.

In fact, he made the 18,000-mile round journey to watch me make my debut!

It was a really proud moment for both of us, and to top it off I scored two tries!

I can't believe I've actually ended up playing alongside players who were heroes of mine while I was growing up.

It's a dream come true.

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