20 Questions: Will James – Gloucester lock
We’re not pleased and it’s there for all to see that we’re underachieving in some areas. But we’re addressing it.
Your pack’s taken a bit of criticism?
We’ve gone from having a fairly dominant set-piece to not being on the money regularly enough. There’s a lot to work on.
Ever imagine you’d still be playing at 36?
Not in the Premiership! I’m getting on for 400 games now with all my clubs. It’s fantastic to still be involved at this level going on 37.
Where did you start out?
Junior rugby at Plymouth Albion, then pro with Bath around 1995-6. After that I played for Pontypridd, Pontypool, Plymouth, Cornish Pirates and Gloucester. It’s been quite a journey and a lot of days at the coal-face.
Play any other sports at school?
Cricket and athletics. Daley Thompson was someone I looked up to as a kid and I used to enjoy watching him.
Proudest rugby moments?
Playing for Wales in the 2007 World Cup; I was only a year out of the Championship. And my 150th Gloucester appearance the other week.
Best players played with or against?
Most talented was James Forrester. He could do everything put sadly his career was cut short. Danny Grewcock was the hardest – a real route one forward.
How do you chill out?
A bit of coaching at Weston-super-Mare, playing drums, a bit of bad golf and my daughters, aged 10 and 12, keep me very busy.
When did you start drumming?
In my early teens. I’ve now got a decent Rowland drum kit and can just shut myself away and have a good hit. It’s a great way of relaxing.
Chairman of the RPA, aren’t you?
Yes. I was Gloucester’s rep on the RPA and went for the chairmanship two years ago. I’m in my third year now and it’s very interesting.
What’s highest on the RPA’s priority list?
The big three are increased levels of player insurance, concussion and establishing mandatory time off in the off-season.
Concussion’s a hot topic right now?
We’re ahead of the game in the Premiership, but the big thing is for players to identify symptoms and understand the risks.
Other aspects of rugby you want improved?
Consistency of refereeing. The job is difficult and everybody makes mistakes, it’s just the way rules are delivered on the field that needs tidying up.
Enjoy cooking/speciality dish?
Love it, particularly shell-fish. My speciality would be Atlantic green-lipped muscles in a Provencal sauce with fresh veg.
TV and music preferences?
Documentaries… National Geographic, that sort of thing. Music-wise, it’s primarily rock with Queens of the Stone Age, Black Sabbath and Led Zeppelin.
Pet hates and annoyances?
Ignorant drivers. I live near Gloucester marina and there’s lots of cars in very tight spaces, but few people say thanks or make room for others.
Rituals and superstitions?
No, but before matches I like to have my own space where I can be quiet and contemplate what’s coming. I don’t like being disturbed.
Best and worst banter at Gloucester?
Apart from me, best has to be Andy Hazell. His commitment to banter is second to none! Worst is Jonny May, he’s just a goon.
Best and worst dressed?
Hazell prides himself on his fashion sense and is like a middle-aged man dressed as a 21-year-old. Worst is Pete Buxton.
Where will Gloucester finish?
We still think we can make the top four. People may say different but the talent we’ve got is fantastic and it’s a case of clicking.
