As we all know you used to play for Mirfield, what are the big differences between the teams and the way they play?
Ossett play better rugby and have a style that is quicker and stronger with a better technical ability. The bond the lads have as a team is great; we’re looking and playing like a proper team

As a forward you often take a lot of the big hits in a game driving the ball in, how has it affected your body over the years?
When you are hit hard it drives you to want to hit back stronger and take the ball up harder. It is also good to play with lads who want the same and are not afraid to get a big hit against them.

As you get older do you think you will want to change position as a lot of props do? If so what position would you like to play?
Well it will be awhile before I think about that yet because I feel with all the training and plays its more of a team effort and the backs take a lot of the strain off us but if I had to change I would like 2nd row I wouldn't want to move out the forwards

I agree the back do take off a lot of pressure which as a spectator makes for a better game to watch and you all look like you work well together as a team.

Why did you choose to play for Ossett?
We went training a few times and knew a few of the lads. Everyone made you feel welcome, Ossett is a very family orientated club and you can see that in all the players and spectators it's just a great atmosphere to be in.

Is it an advantage having your brother playing on the same team? As you are one of the many sets of brothers at Ossett.
It's great there is so many brothers playing it drives you on more...I've played alongside van since I was 18...like I said it drives you to want it more and I'm sure it's the same for all the brothers playing

Ossett are currently looking at finishing a very respectable 4th in league this season. Where did you personally think the Tigers would finish this season with starting without a coach and the changes to the squad mid-season?
To be honest I didn't really accept the plays at first. because we was stuck in our old ways but we knuckled down and have bonded with Simon Hagger and become a team...to finish 4th with a new coach new team and different plays is great and I can’t wait for the winter season, to excel more and hopefully win the league.

As a rugby fan who do you support outside of Ossett?
I don’t really have a favourite team just enjoy the game as a whole and whoever is playing I don't mind watching it

Do you have a favourite player and if so why?
Paul Gallen because he is a machine and non-stop from the first whistle to the last.

A big hitter, not only on the field but in the ring!
HaHa! Yeah, great role-model for us forwards.

What is your biggest achievement in Rugby League?
To be honest there has been a couple of proud moments such as playing in the same game as both my brothers, but I wouldn’t say I have had my biggest achievement.

It just means the best of you is still to come.

Do you have a pre match routine?
I like listening to my music through my head phones thinking of the game, what I want to have and what I want to achieve in with the goals I set for myself.

What kind of music do you like listening to?
There is a selection really more hard-core to pump me up.

Who has been your best coach?
I've had a few over the years, but Scott Dyson from Thornhill. He showed me all about the game and how to play. He was also a big part of why I started playing Rugby League. Hagger will be upset it's not him.

Makes a change and I think he'll appreciate your honesty.

Are there any changes you would personally like to see at the club?
Really the club's run well and the atmosphere is good. Why change it if it isn’t broken.

Do you prefer summer or winter rugby?
Got to be summer rugby, it's more enjoyable than playing in the rain and cold just seems you have to water the pitch more to save the knees. (HaHa)

But sliding around in the mud is so much fun, or that might just be woman’s rugby.

I know you have been dreading it, but what is your worst joke?
Fastest thing in a bakery? Scone

Last one now what do you like to do in your free time?
I seem to be working all the time at the minute but with the free time I have when I'm not working I'm either at the gym or seeing my nieces and nephews

Like a true gent working hard and spending time with family.

Thank you for taking the time to take part in my interview.

Your welcome, thank you... and goodnight.

A big thank you to both Danny Carter and Natalie Clayton.

Get involved with the Tigers!!!
Join our website, it only takes a couple of minutes and leave your thoughts below!