His
education was at Devizes and then Bath Rugby Academy, at Oldfield School, Simon
also attending a business course at the University of Bath.
In
representing England from U16s to U21s level, he has played alongside some of
England's likely future stars, including such as Tom Rees, James Haskell and Toby
Flood.
Simon enjoyed
his time at Bath, appreciating the support of Academy manager Frank Butler, a
good guy and a Cornishman from Camborne! He was also fortunate enough whilst there
to play alongside some outstanding performers, including Mikes Catt and Tindall.
Away
from rugby, Simon enjoys playing golf and poker, whilst he also fancies himself
as being a bit of a Jamie or Gordon in the kitchen. He has also been an accomplished
young cricketer, as a right-hand batsman and wicket-keeper who played for Wiltshire
Schools. In 2000 he went on a tour of the West Indies with the West of England
side, and he has also played Minor Counties cricket at senior level.
His
personal sporting highlights all surround the game of rugby football, including
a first time spot on the bench for a Bath versus Northampton match when only just
turned 18, captaining England U21s, playing in the Middlesex Sevens, and striking
a penalty for a bonus point that kept Worcester in the Premiership at the end
of the 2005-06 season. All were special moments, Simon hoping for more and looking
to improve his game still further with the Cornish Pirates.