TOMMY Hayes will embrace Worcester Rugby Club's free-flowing ethos with open arms following his Sixways move.

The fly-half arrived at Worcester with a big reputation for his kicking style. However, with Worcester's emphasis on keeping ball in hand, the 29-year-old believes the game plan will suit him down to the ground.

"The running game Worcester play suits me fine," he said. "It sounds a very exciting team and really, before I moved to Glasgow, that was the game I was very much used to back in New Zealand.

"The ethos here at Worcester is a very exciting one and I'm certainly looking forward to being part of that. I prefer to have a running game but it is all about finding a balance and adapting to different situations.

"It's about realising what the team needs and getting on top of the opposition."

Hayes faces stiff competition for the number 10 jersey with James Brown and Jon Higgins all fighting for the fly-half spot. It is not something, however, that fazes him.

"The good thing about turning up to a new team is that you naturally push yourself a lot harder," added the former Glasgow star.

"I've been at Glasgow for six seasons and I wasn't pushing myself as hard as I could. This move gives me a new challenge and I think if you've got three players fighting for one place in training then, even before you get on the field, you are going to have that extra edge. "That will help to have a well balanced, motivated team playing for Worcester."

Hayes is happy either at 10 or at centre but the Cook Island international is keen to carry on at fly-half.

"Versatility in any career is a good thing," he added. "I do specialise at 10 though. Last season I played a lot in the centres and didn't get much of a run at fly half.

"However, I believe I've got more to offer at 10. Sometimes, though, if there are injuries then you have to do a job for the team. I'd be happy to do that but I want to play at 10."

Meanwhile, England 18-Group Clubs coach Graham Smith and Clive Allen of the Birmingham Bullets basketball side will be among the guest speakers at the North Midlands Coaching Society's annual conference at Worcester RFC on Sunday.

Former Scotland 'A' prop Smith, who is assistant director of the England Rugby Academy at Worcester, and Allen will be joined by conditioning coach Dale Smallman and Ashley Jones of Northumberland at the conference which will deal with helping players make the transition from mini and junior rugby to the adult game.

The conference starts at 9.30am and is scheduled to finish at 3.45pm. The conference is open to all and costs £10. Further details from Jerry O'Brien on 01905 345489.