20 Questions: Ally Hogg – Newcastle No.8

Enjoy Scotland‘s win over Ireland?
They hung in there, that’s the best way to put it! When the opportunity presented itself to win they took it and I was really pleased for the boys I know. It’ll be interesting to see how they get on against Wales now.
Wish you’d been out there playing?
Of course! You always wish you were playing for your country and I’ve still got a massive desire to play for Scotland. Hopefully I can get back in before long.
You’re marooned on 48 caps, aren’t you?
I know! Believe me, I’ll be fighting tooth and nail to try and get to 50.
Best moment in rugby?
Winning my first cap against Wales in 2004. Awesome! It was massive for me and my family, as well as everybody who’d supported me down the years.
Best time in a Scotland shirt?
The 2006 Six Nations when we beat France, England and Italy. It was the first time I’d won the Calcutta Cup, which was huge, and we did it again in 2008.
How’s life at Newcastle?
I’m really enjoying it here. The first two seasons were difficult, with relegation and all that, but it’s good fun this year and we’re having a good season.
Why did you sign a new contract after relegation?
I spoke to our owner Semore Kurdi and heard his vision and what plans were in place. So I decided to buy into it and so far we’re unbeaten.
Thoughts on the Championship?
It’s been good. It’s a different experience playing against new teams but that’s why I enjoy playing rugby. It’s been good for building a squad.
How so?
We’ve got a lot of young guys coming through who’ll benefit from the exposure and game time they’re getting in professional rugby.
Standards in the Championship?
All the forwards tend to be sound, with strong packs and scrums. Then your Bedfords and Cornish Pirates like to throw it around a bit. There’s been some good, entertaining rugby which is very enjoyable to play in.
View on the play-off system?
It’s a strange format. You could be 25 points clear and then it comes down to a shoot-out where you can lose one game and stay down. You’ve just got to peak at the right time.
What’s Dean Richards like to work for?
Fine. He doesn’t do much coaching, he’s more of a man-manager. But he’s a great figurehead to have around the club and he wants to build a solid base.
How do you chill-out?
I love my golf and there are some beautiful courses around here. And I’ve got a young daughter now so I like hanging around with her in the park.
Bet you’ve got a decent handicap?
I play off 9. I’d love to swap places with Rory McIlroy and play on the PGA Tour.
Like any other sports?
I played a lot of basketball when I was younger and enjoyed seeing an NBA game Boston once. And living in Newcastle it’s impossible not to get caught up in the football.
Favourite places visited?
Boston was pretty special. There’s a lot of history there. And the wife and I recently stayed at this cracking little cottage in Westow, North Yorkshire, which was beautiful.
Best and worst banter at Falcons?
Rob Vickers has got some pretty tasty banter, whilst the worst is our cheeky young fly-half Joel Hodgson who talks far too much. Oh, and put Tom Catterick down as well!
Best and worst dressed?
Catterick is the worst. Absolutely horrendous. Tries to keep up with the current trends but fails miserably. Loves a mirror, too! I’d say the smartest is Alex Crockett, who always makes a big effort after training.
Best and worst trainers?
James Hudson is very, very professional and puts most people to shame. Worst is our prop Oliver Tomaszczyk, who doesn’t put anyone to shame!
Ambitions for the season?
To win promotion, obviously, and build a squad to go forward with in the Premiership. And on a personal level, to fight my way back into Scotland contention.