What sparked your interest in playing rugby?OS: My dad played at Dartmouth, and he encouraged me to look into it. I used to play soccer in high school, and there are a lot of overlaps between the two sports.Had you ever played before coming to Dartmouth?OS: No. Most of the players on our team played other sports before picking up the sport in college.What do rugby players do over the summer to prepare physically and mentally for the upcoming season?OS: We have taken on a pretty aggressive summer schedule. We've been working with one of the football conditioning coaches to get us into really good shape before the start of the Ivy League season.What is the summer season like?OS: Summer has traditionally been a "sevens" season for us. Aside from hosting our own tournament back in July, we also played in a few tournaments in New Haven, Boston and Newport, Rhode Island. How did you all do?OS: We actually did really well. We went four for four in all the ones we played in, taking home four plates. How often do you practice?OS: We have a couple of informal practices throughout the term and have team lifts a couple times a week. How do you coordinate a rigorous academic schedule with athletics?OS: I think they go hand in hand. Having rugby provides structure in my life and helps keep me on top of my stuff. What would you say are your greatest strengths?OS: I play fly-half, so I would say my strengths are kicking and passing.What is a fly-half?OS: Fly-half is basically the first receiver. What would you say are your biggest weaknesses?OS: While some people have called me a sub-par to poor tackler and generally weak in contact, those people are mistaken.What are your thoughts on the acclaimed rugby film "Invictus"? OS: I prefer the "30 for 30" documentary about the '95 South Africa team, but that's just me.Is the team excited for the upcoming Rugby World Cup in New Zealand?OS: Yes.Are you going to be there?OS: I've told the national team coach that I'm available for selection.What other activities are filling your iCal these days?OS: I do not use iCal. Next question.Do you think spectators understand what's even going on in a rugby match?OS: I think they have a vague idea. There are certain parallels with football, so people get the general idea of the flow of play and scoring. The finer points can be confusing for even long-time players of the game. And some referees as well.What are your aspirations for the team?OS: Our clearest team goal right now is to win the Ivy League Championship in the fall.Compare the intensity level of rugby with another similar sport like football.OS: They are actually very different. Football on one hand is a lot of stop and go, requiring short, quick bursts. Rugby is much more of a grind, with the play continuing.Care to comment on the rumors that your name is not actually Owen?OS: It's actually Chipkick. Most people do not actually know this.
1-on-1 with Owen Scannell '13
After just two years of play, Owen Scannell '13 has become a crucial player for the Big Green men's rugby team.
