11 / 64
9
SEAN REIDY
depth is the key to success now and in the future,”
says the engaging Reidy.
“Les Kiss asks us to challenge ourselves, and
he has a team of coaches around him who are
positive and innovative, so it’s always enjoyable to
come to work. Joe Barakat, who specialises in the
collision area, has added to the quality we have,
and I do a lot of work with him which has really
brought me forward. And with the management as
a whole, and the Strength and Conditioning team
who really deserve much more credit.”
Sean keenly shares the disappointment of
supporters as the side has slipped out of the
PRO12 top four, and three defeats in the last four
outings has made the target of a home semi-final in
the play-offs much more difficult.
“There’s no doubt about it, we have our backs
against the wall dropping down the table as we
have, but we are all – players and coaches – still
determined to reach the playoffs, and hopefully
finish in the top two, which would mean a home
game in the semis.
“That would be great, there’s something really
special about playing in front of the Kingspan
Stadium fans, and they will be so important this
Friday against Connacht, and then in our last
regular-season game here with Leinster.
“We are all determined to take something tangible
from this season, so a home playoff, and then
a final in Edinburgh where there’s a huge Ulster
contingent, is the aim,” says Reidy.
Clearly focussed on Connacht’s arrival, Reidy
relaxes for a moment, and reflects on the little
things about life in Belfast which have made him
extend his stay at Ulster so much easier.
“Me and some of the guys are into our coffee, so
we like to check out the new places and revisit
some of our favourite cafes, which is good fun.
“And I like to get on a bike and just go for a ride
around the city, along the river, so I have a really
good life away from the game which is a key thing
for me,” he says.
But the coffee expeditions can wait, for Reidy
knows the next month is critical to Ulster’s year and
that there are no margins for error now.
“Personally I came here, and wanted to stay,
because I know something special is happening at
Ulster and if we’re playing a bit of ‘catch-up’ at the
moment we are all committed to playing the style of
rugby we are capable of and which will, I’m certain,
bring regular success.
“We’re in this as a squad, and I would hope to
be part of getting things back on track against
Connacht – for ourselves and the coaches, but
most of all for the supporters.”
continued from page 7