We caught up with Mike Forshaw - Connacht's new Defence Coach, to ask him a few questions in between preseason training sessions:

Hi Mike, how have you found your stay in Galway sofar?
My stay in Galway has been cool, I really like the area and the people have been very welcoming! The weather has been fine and similar to where I’m from so no dramas there. The lifestyle suits me as I’ve been doing a lot of training, swimming in the sea and running as I’m competing in the UK Ironman on the 1st of August, something that I entered 10 months ago after taking up triathlon events!

How are you finding the transition from rugby league to union? Your time at Saracens must help...
League and union are very different games in terms of technicalities, but the principle of defence are similar. Saracens was a great experience especially getting the opportunity to play with such established internationals such as Paul Wallace, Paddy Johns, Michael Lynagh, Philip Sella, Francois Pienaar and Richard Hill.

What do you know about the Magners League?
I’m in the unknown of the Magners League competition, hence one of my reasons to join Connacht Rugby. I’m really excited about going and competing in such a big competition where so many good players and coaches apply their knowledge to be as successful as possible.

Any thoughts on the future?
Just along with Eric Elwood and the rest of the staff, I’m here to try and improve the club and see Connacht Rugby develop into a force in the Magners League!