Room 101: Alex Crockett – Hull Ionians coach

1. Big backs/slim props
A real bug bear of mine is how the game has changed from being one for players of all shapes and sizes to one where everybody seems to be massive. The trend for quick and powerful, 6ft 4ins/16 stone plus centres/wingers, started by Matt Banahan, is almost the norm nowadays. In the old days players used to try and wrestle you and target the ball in the tackle, now they ignore the ball and just try and smash you from 10 metres away. Also, as a centre myself, I used to be able to target a prop as someone you could sidestep around. Not now. The majority of props are really mobile and don’t get tired like they used to. Rugby needs people like Gareth ‘Coochie’ Chilcott back in the game!
TRP verdict:  Just wait until Slammin’ Sam Burgess arrives. He’s going to cause one big headache. You’re in.
2. Fitness trainers
For 10-15 years I tried to avoid fitness trainers like the plague but there was never any hiding place, they always seemed to be hovering on your shoulder and watching what you were eating or checking to see if you were doing the right amount of reps in the gym. I liked doing the fitness work if it had a purpose or I felt it would make me a better rugby player, but I never saw the point of mindless running. At Bath there was a quite a high turnover of fitness trainers, but it was always a case of new face, same pack drill. They are a breed apart.
TRP verdict:  Take a lap of honour…if you can be bothered – that’s 2 out of 2.
3. Airport Check-Ins
Travelling through airport check-in is an absolute nightmare when you’ve got a little one with you. We’ve got a one-and-a-half year-old boy and in his lifetime we’ve been abroad on three occasions, to France, Ibiza and Geneva. Each time it’s been a hassle getting everyone through security. From his little tiny shoes to his buggy they pretty much check everything before being satisfied I’m no strawberry blonde bomber.
TRP verdict:  Put your dummy back in and get into Room 101.