Pete Orphan catches up with Dai Roberts

25 Apr 2010

As we enter new territory of the play off system I thought VFTP ought to ask a long standing member of the back room staff and someone never short of an opinion or two, kit man extraordinaire Dai Roberts, his thoughts.

Dai, tell us what an average match day means for you ?

I take the kit down to the ground two hours before kick off. Then lay it out according to the sizes the boys require. Then I check on things like the making sure the match and practice balls are all pumped up properly. Once the boys arrive it’s sorting out any thing they need. When the game’s over I collect the kit in and then the next day I take it all to the coin wash to get clean !

So who is the fussiest player about their kit ?

I couldn’t possibly say but most have their own little requirements

What are your thoughts on this season ?

It has been an excellent season. At times we’ve been down to 19 fit players, but the boys have pulled through. They have been very well coached by Webby and Ian. Mark (Fitness Coach) has done tremendously getting the boys really fit this season.

What game stands out for you ?

Probably, for showing real character, Aberavon away. The weather was terrible as was the pitch and we were down to the bear bones in terms of fit players and we managed a win.

Who would be your player of the season ?

Hanno would get my vote. He has been exceptional especially when you consider his age and the fact it’s first time away from home and playing in Wales.

If you could make one rule change in rugby what would it be ?

While the ruck and tackle area need changes and something to stop the ping pong kicking, I would like to se the coaches and match officials communicating better to get the game to flow.

What is your favourite away ground ?

I was sorry when Ebbw vale got relegated as visiting them is always a good trip. The crowd are always friendly and their back room staff are always helpful.

What are thoughts on the introduction of the play offs ?

To be honest I’m not in favour. I think the league season should decide the six to go into the British and Irish Cup. Mind you with the lack of money and the fact that we will be playing against full time professionals I’m not a fan of the cup either !

Any final thoughts ?

I’d Just like to say thank you to Roy and Tudor who work alongside me on a match day. I’d also like to pass my congratulations to all the coaches and the boys for what they achieved this season.

My thanks to Dai for giving me his time and thoughts for VFTP. Swansea RFC couldn’t function without the hard work of the likes of Dai. On match days he is here long before most of us get to the ground and still here after most of us have gone home. He also often around sorting out kit and helping out during the week. Dai is a great servant to the club and one of the good guys in Welsh rugby.