Rookie Interviews: Anthony McArdle (Big Red)

With our upcoming Rookie Camp on 19th & 26th November we will be speaking to a few of our 2017 Rookies that joined last year and asking them about their experience when joining the Cowboys. First up is Defensive Tackle Anthony McArdle, known affectionately as 'Big Red' (no-one is quite sure why, but it has stuck).

Anthony, you joined the team during last year’s Rookie Camp, how did you hear about the Cowboys and what made you come along and try it out?
"I heard of the Cowboys through a friend that plays for the Cowboys and decided I'd love to give it a go and haven't looked back since, absolutely love it!"

Was it intimidating to come in to a new team and how long did it take you to settle in?
"There's always them first training nerves, after the sumo drill in my first training session that's when I started to really feel settled in, nerves had gone, everyone was there to play football and have fun."

What did you find the hardest thing was about starting out in this new sport?
"Learning the different techniques and stances for the Defensive tackle position, although hard they were very fun to see how changing a few things really improves your game."

You play in the trenches as Defensive Tackle, what do you find hard about the position and what is your favourite part of playing DT?
"Well because I'm a big guy I'm usually never on 1 vs 1 match ups, I'd say going up against 2 guys every play is the hardest part and my favourite part is breaking through them 2 guys and getting the chance to hit somebody."

You suffered an injury a few games into the season which kept you out for a few games, was it hard to watch from the side-line and not be involved?
"Yeah I tore my MCL in this season’s third game and it was devastating. When your part of this team you want to be out there every game working hard. Toughest moment was against the Vipers at home in People's Park and not being able to help the boys to a victory."

What advice would you give to someone thinking about trying out with the Cowboys in the upcoming Rookie Camp?
"I'd say come along, try it out you've nothing to lose it may end up being the best decision you've made all year. I've made friends for life by deciding to do it last year."