Raise Your Game: Describe the experience of playing rugby for Wales?

Rob Howley: Playing for Wales is something that only a small number of people have experienced. It's a very private environment to be in, particularly before internationals.

RYG: What does it take to make it to the top?

RH: The commitment, dedication and skill, whether it's technical or tactical, needs to be developed from an early age. The higher up that ladder you go, the more elite sport becomes and that then asks questions of you mentally. It's a mind game and psychology comes into it hugely, especially in international rugby. Motivation, commitment and desire are the givens.

RYG: How do you keep your thoughts positive?

RH: I use a lot of imagery. The times when you play well, whether it's kicking, passing or scoring a try. Fill your mind with positive images as opposed to those negative images which surround us in day-to-day life. It's all about using the right tools in order to get into the right mindset. The players around you, your team and environment all aid your performance.

Fifteen minutes prior to the game your mind certainly plays tricks with your body. You feel the butterflies and your mouth feels dry but you go through it time and time again because it's a priceless feeling when you run onto the Millennium Stadium pitch in front of 75,000 people! This is what every rugby player dreams of, that one day 'they' will be able to run out on the national turf.

RYG: What do you look for in a good team player?

RH: When you're down and the scoreboards are not in your favour you watch the players who are still trying and going that extra yard. How they communicate during the game and how they are perceived within the team are very important factors. Team players are the decision makers and they are vitally important because they're there to make decisions for the whole team.

RYG: What does it take to become a leader?

RH: It's all about respect and integrity. If you have that as a coach and a player, it's easier to lead other players. During my career as a player for Wales and the British Lions I've been fortunate to have played under many great captains such as Martin Johnson and Lawrence Dallaglio. In terms of their motivational skills, they had the ability to lead from the front. You won't go far wrong in international rugby if you have those personality traits.