By No.7
July 14 2003

My first memories of Welford road are of playing there for the Leicester Vipers at the grand old age of 10. 15 years ago. I've still got the photo's of me standing there with my hands on my hips not doing to much whilst the game was going on around me. Nothing has changed much now with my rugby playing prowess but I still hold the memories of playing there very close.

A group of friends who played regular rugby for the Vipers invited me to go down to the Tigers ground for a local competition as they were one
short and needed someone of substantial strength (fat) to play for them.

It was a momentous occasion for a slightly overweight child who's sporting achievements included coming last in most things.

Not knowing what to expect as I had never played rugby before made the occasion even more nerve-racking. I managed to calm myself with a bag of sweets and a cola panda pop. Being 10 years of age the ground seemed to be a complex labyrinth of halls, stairs and as I remember strange smells, deep heat I think.

Fully equipped in full rugby regalia Vipers shirt, shorts, socks and plimsolls (it was my first time.!) not forgetting a childhood mullet I
made my way through the changing room down the flight of stairs and onto my now spiritual home.

A crowd of expectant parents were there to support us on our way. It was fantastic feeling and one I have failed to reach again in my prestigious career of local 2nd team rugby.

We started with a game against Oadby, the ball was kicked off and unfortunately for me I caught it. Not knowing what to do I turned put my head down and went for it. Unfortunately as things turned out I was going the wrong way and managed to run straight into one of our players and took him cold out of the game. Great start.

For some reason I don't remember getting to grips with the ball much in the 6 other games that we played during that day and I certainly don't remember winning a game either but the thing I do remember more than anything is
thoroughly enjoying myself. What a great way to start your rugby playing career and a love of the Leicester Tigers.

Since that day I have never stopped playing and watching rugby and I don't intend to now. Much to my fiancé's despair. Rugby has taken me to many places and given me the opportunity to meet
some enlightening people like the time I went to play against the inmates of Glen Parva. A friendly bunch who didn't take too kindly to
being asked if they fancied an away fixture.

And then over to Paris for the Heineken Cup final which has to be the best weekend of rugby I have ever experienced. Cheering on the boys in the blazing hot sunshine of Paris and celebrating way into the night is something I will never forget.

Flying down to Cardiff in a tiny lightweight plane in somewhat inclement conditions and thinking that I might die at any minute only to watch the boys beat Munster and again celebrating long into the earlier hours was a great experience.

To quote a certain Mr Leonard 'Rugby has given me so much more than I could ever give it back' I couldn't agree more.