Alumni in the Spotlight - Mofe Wilkey (Class of 2015)

Mofe Wilkey (Class of 2015) was named as one of the outstanding players in the 2015 1st XV. He went on to play for Harlequins and now works in financial services as a catastrophe modeller.

You were part of the team that went on tour to Hong Kong and Australia. How did this help prepare you for the successful season ahead?

We built life-long memories, visiting countries and places we had never seen before. We played against very strong rugby teams that had different styles of play to what we were used to. We spent large amounts of time together, which really built the team spirit. Moreover, friendships within the team were strengthened.

Funniest story from the tour?

The team had several on-tour games that started from the moment we stepped on the bus at the beginning of the tour to when we got off the bus a few weeks later. For example, “Simon says” - any action that “Simon” did, we had to copy. There was a particular round that saw all of the team freeze in the middle of the airport, leaving everyone not involved very confused.

What’s the biggest mistake people make with their training?

Not thinking about the aim of the drills or not understanding the aim of their actions while training. Running certain patterns or plays that were designed with a purpose, and then not fully understanding that purpose, can lead to large amounts of wasted time and effort.

You had Mr Liffchak and Mr Beresford-Miller as your coaches. What was the biggest contribution they made to the success of the team?

Yes, I was extremely lucky to have had such great coaches. I think the most important lesson they taught us was trying to make ourselves complete players. Being able to be both physical and skilful, regardless of the position you’re playing, is a mindset that helps at all levels of the game.

You played for the Harlequins after leaving school, how was that after playing school rugby?

I’m very grateful I got the chance. The key differences between school-level rugby and Harlequins was in the speed and physicality of the game and training. Getting to train with the top-level players, coaches and staff helped me develop as a player and person. There was always a massive emphasis on preparation and being able to “do your job”.

Who helped you the most to settle in at Quins?

The strength and conditioning coaches and Mark Lambert. Stepping up to be able to play at the highest level takes a large amount of effort and work. The workload and required dedication take a while to get used to.

What was it like being part of such a famous club?

At the time, I was very focused on playing and being in form but now, looking back, it was an incredible experience and I’m grateful I got the opportunity.

What skills and values you learnt as a rugby player have you taken into your career?

I think preparation and understanding your role when collaborating are key lessons I make use of today.

One piece of advice you’d give to our current 1st XV?

Don’t take any of the matches or trips for granted. Those experiences are still some of my favourite memories.

The greatest player ever born, in any position, anywhere in the world?

Jonah Lomu

If you could win only one match all season, who would you want to beat?

Dulwich College – the games against them were always very important.