We are excited to be welcoming Vinnie O’Connell to the clan this season! New Zealander Vinnie previously played for Taieri Club in Otago and has played rugby in Spain for CAU Valencia.
Position: Loose forward/Lock
Nationality/heritage: New Zealand
Nickname: Diesel
Favourite rugby player: Paul Tito
Interesting fact: I’m colour blind
Can you tell us a bit about your rugby journey/background to date?
I started playing for the Taieri Club in Otago from an early age, before going to Boarding School at St Bede’s College in Canterbury. Following High School, I moved to Dunedin to attend the University of Otago where I started playing for the Taieri Club again. I managed to play some age-grade representative rugby for Canterbury and Otago along the way and have also spent a season playing in Spain for CAU Valencia in 2019-2020.
What are your hobbies / interests outside of rugby and what do you do work?
I enjoy getting outdoors for some hiking and fishing/diving. Prior to moving to Hong Kong, I was working as a Sales Consultant.
If you weren’t a rugby player, which other sport/s would you play?
I played a bit of cricket and basketball throughout High School and I was absolutely useless at both. I Wouldn’t mind giving basketball another go though!
What are you looking forward to most about life in Hong Kong and playing for Hong Kong Scottish
It’s pretty exciting to move to the other side of the world and experience a different way of life in a completely new place. I’m also excited to play some fast-paced footy in a competition that’s competitive each week.
What should we expect from you next season (on and off the pitch)?
Hopefully steal a few lineouts on the field and have plenty of shower beers post match!
Do you have any hidden talents…?
I’ve been told on numerous occasions that I’m quite a remarkable baker.
What’s your favourite pre-match song?
My Way – Frank Sinatra
We look forward to seeing Vinnie in red and blue this season!
