soar magazine 09

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Editor’sCommentThe agony and the ecstasy. The dreams and what could have beens. The tears and the triumphs. Even that doesn’t do justice to the past few weeks of pulsating Leicestershire sport. From the gut wrenching anguish of City’s play-off penalty exit, to the vein bursting excitement of Tigers’ last gasp Twickenham joy, the extremes of professional sport had our fans on the edge of their seats. And it didn’t stop there.

The Leicester Hockey girls suffered the pain of their only defeat of the season - in the play-off final - but recovered to lift the cup to add to their indoor title. Meanwhile, the Leicester Riders suffered at the hands of the officials with a controversial 88-86 play-off defeat to Glasgow Rocks.

This issue is packed with the aftermath of the exhilaration. We’ve got captain overload. In victory, Geordan Murphy; in disappointment, Jack Hobbs and in anticipation, Matthew Hoggard. Then there are heroes in Peter Shilton and Neil Lennon and a hidden heroine, in Leicester Hockey’s Jennie Bimson.

We’re also proud to announce our partnership with Leicester City Council’s Sports Services. We’ve covered their leisure centre rebrand, ‘Lifestyle Fitness’ and their excellent golf courses, health initiatives and Kits4Africa scheme. All definitely worth a read.

If that’s not enough, then Curve has discounted tickets for under 26s and Revolution have some sensational food and drink offers for the World Cup.

We’d also like to say a big thank you to Jersey Budd and everyone at the Walkers Stadium involved in the recording of Leicester City’s club anthem, ‘When You’re Smiling’. Jers, you did every City supporter proud. You have some career ahead of you.

So, whatever happens with Rooney, Capello and Co this summer, remember in the words of Dean, Frank, Louis and now Jersey, when you’re smiling, when you’re smiling, the whole world smiles with you.

LineupSoar Sport 08 Neil Lennon

11 Jennie Bimson

12 City Golf

14 Jack Hobbs

18 Matthew Hoggard

21 Kits4Africa

22 ICON: Peter Shilton

25 Directory

Soar Health28 STOP Smoking

30 LR Sport

32 Lifestyle Fitness

33 Leisure Centre Focus

38 Dean Hodgkin

Soar Lifestyle40 Curve

42 Revolution Bars

44 VISTA

46 Quinn Construction

48 SoarPoint: Geordan Murphy

52 InPictures

Thanks: Jennie Bimson, David Butler, Qasim Chowdary, Jane Hammersley, Claire Harding, Jayne Henderson, Jack Hobbs, Dean Hodgkin, Matthew Hoggard, Steve Humphries, Jennifer Johnson, Neil Lennon, Andy Mann, Geordan Murphy, Dan Nice, Lee Quinn, Peter Shilton, Rachel Standley & Dipa Tailor

Soar Magazine is produced by Soar Media LtdLCB Depot, 31 Rutland St, Leicester LE1 1RET: 0116 2616 892 E: [email protected]

Editorial: Dean Eldredge & Jon ReevesCreative: Gary Webster & Jon DoddPhotos: Soar Photo, Tiger Images, Leicester Mercury Print: Soar Print Website: Soar Media/Cindro

The copyright of all material is owned by Soar Media Ltd and may not be reproduced or published without prior consent. Soar Media Ltd take no responsibility for the claims made by advertisers, nor all of the views expressed by contributors.

Dean Eldredge, Editor

Editor’s Commentin association with:


• FITNESS SUITES

• SWIMMING POOLS

• HALL & COURT HIRE

• FITNESS CLASSES

• CLIMBING WALL

• PITCH & TRACK

See page �2 for more information

www.leicester.gov.uk/lifestylefitness

A NEW STYLE FOR LIFE

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Victory! Leicester Tigers get the party started after sealing the Guinness Premiership play-off title following their 33-27 win over Saracens. Photo: Tiger Images

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LENNON LEGENDLeicester City fans will always remember the Martin O’Neill years with great fondness. Wembley glory, League Cup final victories and regular top ten finishes in the Premier League. The manager, of course, was the main reason for that success, creating one of the most competitive teams in the country.

helped the club to the Premier League in his first season. In the top flight, Leicester exceeded all expectations and Lennon carved out a reputation as one of the division’s finest midfielders.

“The time at Leicester moulded my career. I remember it with great fondness. I played under an inspirational manager with a great team, a great work ethic and we had fantastic support. “I think team spirit is undervalued, particularly in the modern game. We were really tight as a unit and the perennial underdog, tipped as relegation fodder. I think we were one of the first teams to go through the play-offs, stay up and consistently finish in the top ten. “Martin didn’t really spend a great deal. There were great characters. Photo: Leicester Mercury

Claridge was quirky, Walshy was a leader, Tags and Matty were laid back off the field but winners on it. Muzzy was one of the best I played with and Emile went on to have a fantastic career.

“I wouldn’t say we were journeymen, but we were guys Martin had picked from the lower leagues. There was a real hunger about us and he kept that hunger for a long time.”

A smile appears on Neil’s face as he recounts the story of signing for Leicester. After speaking to Ron Atkinson, Lennon was extremely close to joining Coventry City, until O’Neill entered his Manchester flat. “You talk about days that change

If O’Neill was the passionate, fiery and breathlessly energetic driving force on the touchline, then Neil Lennon was the embodiment of that on the pitch. Soar Magazine caught up with ‘Lenny’ to reminisce about his time with City, the achievements with Celtic and his managerial future. Joining the Foxes in 1996 from Crewe Alexandra, Neil Lennon

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your life and that was it. I was due to go to Coventry and I had a visit from Martin and he talked me out of it. It was this whirlwind of a guy coming in and he made you feel that you wanted to play for him there and then. “He had great charisma and intelligence and just said to me, ‘even though we’re in Division One, we will get promoted and we will play in the Premier League. You’ll be a big part of it.’ He was true to his word.”

Lennon had made his mark on O’Neill at Crewe following his release from Manchester City. Recounting those early feelings of rejection, Neil explained how he uses the experience to encourage young players shown the door at Celtic. “At the time, I thought leaving Manchester City was the end of the world. I was only 19 and had given my life to training. I have to do that with younger players myself now. It’s me that’s got to sit down and tell them and it’s heartbreaking. I use myself as an example. I say it’s there for you if you want it. “I got a break as Dario Gradi came to

watch me and he liked what he saw. It was a huge culture shock going from Man City to this tiny little club and it took a bit of getting used to.”

After a promising start with Crewe, Lennon encountered more adversity after suffering a career-threatening injury. “Halfway through that first season I got diagnosed as having a spinal fusion so that meant an operation and I’d be out for the following season. There were times during the rehabilitation period that I questioned whether I’d make it back to where I was or even get back playing football. I had a wee bit of spirit in me and just kept going. You want to get back to the very top. You’ve been to the bottom so the only way is up.”

He certainly did that, first with Leicester and then with Celtic after a move in 2000 meant a reunion with Martin O’Neill. Lennon talked at length about the influence the inspirational former City boss has had on his career.

“Huge and he still is a huge influence on my career. I take on a

lot I learned from him. His forte is man-management. It is common knowledge that he didn’t do a lot on the training ground. Well, that doesn’t mean he didn’t know a lot about the game. He had a vast knowledge of the game and the opposition. He keeps it simple and he understands how you feel in games, recognises certain situations and how to deal with them and how to cope with the pressure. “Then to take that on to Celtic where the expectation is on another level, huge and unrealistic at times, he learned to cope with that. He just gave you so much confidence. He had a great team in John Robertson and Steve Walford. It’s no surprise he went on to great things at Celtic and is still doing that at Aston Villa. He is one of the great modern day managers.” The fact the Lenny holds O’Neill in such high regard was a major factor in his decision to join the Glasgow giants. “It was only Celtic. Martin was there so that compounded the feeling. George Graham at Leeds made some inroads and Ranieri was interested at Chelsea, but once the call came from Celtic there was only one place I wanted to go.

Photo: Leicester Mercury


“You get there and you want to be a winner. We had to get things right domestically first and Martin came in and gave Scottish football such a kick-start. Celtic had lost the league by 20 points and he came in and won it by 20 points. We won every domestic trophy and he built a great team, with a great mentality. That’s the other thing Martin works really hard on, the mentality of getting a winning team on the pitch and believing in yourselves. “Gordon Strachan came in and we had three fantastic seasons. We made the Champions League last 16 for the first time and did it again the following year. To go through that as a double winning captain was incredible.”

As well as countless highs, there were well documented lows, not least the death threats that brought a premature end to his international career and how he suffered from depression during his spell at Leicester, something Neil speaks openly about. “With depression it doesn’t matter who you are and what you do, it doesn’t pick and chose people, it is an illness. I came out in public because it can be a very lonely thing. Millions of people in the world have it and people think there’s something

horribly wrong with them. There’s not. It’s a really common illness. I wouldn’t say it’s easy to remedy, but there’s a lot of help out there to get you through the hard times.” Clearly a deep thinker about the game and a great talker, management is the next challenge for Lennon and after impressing as Celtic’s caretaker manager, a full-time role is something Neil would relish.

“With depression it doesn’t matter who you are and what you do, it doesn’t pick and chose people, it is an illness.”

“I’ve enjoyed the responsibility. I’ve been around the club as a coach so there’s nothing new to me. It was a huge challenge because morale was pretty low. We galvanised ourselves and beat all the top teams in our final six games and went on to beat Rangers, which gave the fans something to look forward to for next season. “For me it’s the next logical step in my career. I’ve done all my qualifications and I’m about to finish off my Pro Licence.”

So, everything seems in place for the affable but supremely focused Neil Lennon, as one of Leicester City’s modern playing greats prepares to follow in the footsteps of arguably the club’s finest manager.

Feature in association with:

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“I’m 33 and I’ve been playing hockey seriously since I was 17. I thought I’d see what normal life was like. I’ll probably get bored and be back playing soon, no… I won’t be back!”

Even though she won’t be seen on the pitch anytime soon, Bimson plans to enjoy watching Leicester as a fan and revealed exactly what the club and long-term coach Chris Mayer means to her.

“Some of my best friends are in the Leicester team so I want to watch

and see how those guys get on. It’s been a huge part of my life. I went to Loughborough University and it was there that I decided to join Leicester Hockey Club.

“I didn’t think I’d be there for 11 years but the people are fantastic. The coach, Chris Mayer, is a big reason why I stayed. His passion for the game is infectious. I loved being part of his team and didn’t want to go anywhere else.”

When Jennie sums up the highs of her career, it’s the relationships she’s built up, rather then the medals that she will cherish.

“I’ve won medals at three commonwealth games, been to World Cups and Olympic Games, but I think it’s the friendships you make and the people that you meet along the way.”

For more information on Leicester Hockey Club visit www.leicesterhc.co.uk

Talking ‘Bout Her Jeneration O ne of Leicester’s most

dedicated sports stars retired from the game

this summer, but other than team-mates, coaches, opponents and those with a broader knowledge of Leicestershire sport, it’s conceivable that most people won’t be aware of her and her fantastic achievements in British hockey.

Jennie Bimson finally hung up her hockey stick after a 16 year career that included eleven seasons with the hugely successful Leicester Hockey Club. Jennie won 198 caps representing her country at the Olympics, Commonwealth Games and World Championships.

In her last season with Leicester, the team went the whole league campaign unbeaten, only to lose in the play-off final. Despite that disappointment, Jennie looked back on the season with satisfaction.

“We won 17 games out of 18 and then we had the play-offs which didn’t go to plan. To be honest that didn’t bother me too much. Well, it did for about a week, but then I just thought we’ve had a fantastic season so I’m not going to let that overshadow it. We won the cup and the indoor cup too.”

Bimson revealed that she’d considered retirement a few years ago after competing in the last Olympics but is happy she carried on a little longer.

“After Beijing I was thinking of retiring but I thought I had more years left in me. I’m glad I did because it was a great experience this year playing with fantastic players.

Photo: Ady Kerry

Photo: Andy Smith


On a beautifully sunny morning that seemed to signal the beginning of summer, what better way to spend a couple of hours than strolling around the superbly kept Humberstone Heights golf course?

The smell of freshly cut grass complemented the stunning scenery and views of the city as Course Manager, David Butler, took us on a green-by-green tour, stopping off for a spot of putting practice along the way.

David, who also manages the council’s Western Park Course, has a simple philosophy; he wants golf to be accessible for as many people as possible.

“Our aim is to provide the best quality facilities at the best possible price, within a welcoming environment for people of all ages and abilities. We try to make it as easy as possible for people to play here. Membership offers great value but people can just turn up, pay and play and enjoy themselves.”

Leicester City Council has two golf courses located within five miles of the city centre; Humberstone Heights, which is situated in the East of the City and Western Park in the West.

Humberstone Heights

Built in 1976, Humberstone Heights has matured into a beautiful course with tall trees and great views of county and city landmarks, such as Old John at Bradgate Park and

the National Space Centre. Despite the urban setting, the course is somewhat of a green haven that oozes tranquillity.

The main 18 hole, par 70 course, is filled with testing tee shots, awkward bunkers and lusciously flat greens. There is also a par three, nine-hole pitch and putt course for beginners, or those just fancying a bit of fun.

A 30 bay floodlit driving range is also popular and allows golfers to practice their swing all year round. The beautifully kept putting green is the largest in Leicester.

Western Park

An 18 hole course, with a grass practice area and an indoor facility for year round lessons, Western Park celebrates its Centenary Year in 2010, and after 100 years of golf it’s still proving as popular as ever.

PLAYING A ROUND

“Our aim is to provide the best quality facilities at the best possible price”

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To celebrate this landmark there will be a festival over the summer with pro-am tournaments, social events and fun days, where young children can use plastic clubs and balls to take their first steps in the game.

Reasons to Try City Golf…

There are roughly 900 members who are able to use both courses. This allows golfers to improve their game and prevents them becoming too accustomed with the same 18 holes.

A year long membership costs in the region of £500, which allows users to play on weekdays and at the weekend. There are cheaper rates for senior players, those over 60, who can pay £305 a year for a weekday membership.

For one off rounds, it costs £15.50 to play 18 holes during the week and £19 at the weekends.

Golf Manager, David Butler, said: “With the introduction of our Direct Debit scheme, it allows the golfer to spread the cost of their course fees across a twelve month period, with the flexibility of playing at both venues. From beginner to experienced, we have the skill and expertise to meet everyone’s needs.”

Both courses are over 150 acres in

size and the greens and fairways are maintained on a daily basis by the City Council’s Parks Division.

Bar and catering facilities are on offer at both courses.

Free golf lessons for beginners take place at Humberstone Heights every Sunday.

Across both courses there are seven PGA qualified gold professionals who provide tuition and advice to members.

Health Benefits…

The city golf staff work closely with the GP Referrals Scheme aiming to help seniors get more active. The game continues to attract players of all ages as David explained.

“People into their 80s regularly play on both courses throughout the week. A lot of people don’t realise that in an average 18 holes of golf you walk between four and six miles.

“We get somewhere between 1000 and 1500 people of all ages and abilities using the course a week. Kids as young as four use plastic clubs in a scheme called tri-golf to see if they like it.”

Separate coaching is available for ladies and couples. Clubs and societies are also welcome.

Soar Magazine reporter, Jon Reeves, was put through his putting paces by David Butler and here’s how he fared…

David gave me a brief coaching session on the putting green, quickly addressing flaws in my grip and stance. He encouraged me to swing with a smoother action and although none of my long-range putts were holed, each got a little closer to the target and I felt more confident by the end of the session.

I’d still class myself as a golfing novice, but David’s message to anybody thinking of trying the sport or dusting off their clubs after years in the wilderness would be to visit one of the courses and have a go.

“Definitely get in touch. Call us or come in and visit and we’ll talk through what you want and what suits your needs. Come and try the course and see what we’ve got to offer and if you enjoy it.”

Visit www.leicester.gov.uk/sports for more information on the City’s golf courses.

For Humberstone Heights call 0116 2995570 or e-mail [email protected]. For Western Park call 0116 2995566 or e-mail [email protected]

Putting Tips...


Jack and the Team Talk

After a fairytale campaign which promised so much but ended in play-off penalty heartbreak, Leicester City’s Player of the Year, Jack Hobbs, spoke exclusively to Soar Magazine to reflect on that agonising semi-final defeat, how the players will move on and his hopes for next season...

At 21, the competitive and composed centre-back has already established himself as one of the club’s most consistent performers. Manager Nigel Pearson, a man who knows a thing or two about defending, has clearly been impressed and awarded Jack the captain’s armband for the two season defining contests with Cardiff City.

So Jack, it was obviously a very disappointing end to the season, but there must be plenty of positives too?

Definitely. It’s been a great season and at the end of the day we were only two kicks away from Wembley. There are a lot of positives and hopefully we can push on even further next season. It was a good experience to play in the play-offs and the disappointment of defeat can only make us stronger. It’s still very raw and very frustrating, but

it’s important not to dwell on it too much.

Can you describe what the dressing room was like after the Cardiff defeat?

It was just silent, everybody was silent for at least 15 minutes and just so disappointed. Waggy was in tears and absolutely distraught. It was a horrible feeling and such a gutting way to lose. It was definitely one of the worst feelings I’ve had in football. We were so close to Cardiff all season, finishing on the same points, drawing over two-legs and only penalties could separate us.

We put so much effort in and were so unfortunate to go out.

A lot’s been said about Yann’s penalty…

You win and lose as a team and it’s important to remember that. We probably didn’t do ourselves justice in the first leg and maybe that’s cost us, but we don’t blame anybody for what happened. It’s important that we stick together.

The team met a few days after the game. What was the manager’s message to the players?

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He said it had been a pleasure working with us this year. He told us to go and get some rest and relax, to get the disappointment out of our system and clear our heads. He told us how proud and pleased he was with all our efforts.

How did it feel to captain the side?

It was an honour to captain such a great side, with a fantastic history and such great fans. It was a massive achievement and I was really pleased to be given the armband. I would’ve loved to have captained the side out at Wembley, but hopefully I can go on to be captain again in the years to come.

It must have been a great honour to win the club’s Player of the Year Award?

It was an absolute privilege and I was delighted. I feel I’ve been progressing well under the manager and constantly playing games week in, week out in front of 20 to 30,000 people has been a great experience. I’ve had a lot of support from the gaffer and Wayne Brown has helped me massively this season. It’s so important for me to be playing games at this stage of my career and hopefully I can continue to improve.

Looking back, you must be pleased with your decision to join Leicester?

I didn’t want to just sit on the bench and settle for a couple of appearances a season for Liverpool. I wanted to get out there and play. Then the manager signed Martin Skrtel and I knew I wasn’t really going to get a look in, so I decided it was time to move on.

It’s been great for my career and I’m so glad that I decided to join Leicester. I’m really grateful to the gaffer for bringing me in. The first

year went really well and this season has been even better.

Tell us a bit about how Nigel Pearson has influenced your game?

It’s a pleasure to work with him and there’s no doubt he’s brought my game on a lot. He gives me little tips on body positioning, marking, tackling and heading. He’s a great man manager and knows exactly how to get the best out of players. Shakey and Powelly have been really helpful too.

And, from the players’ point of view, it’s so important that the manager stays?

Absolutely, he’s done a great job. To take the club back up from League One is a great achievement, as it’s such a tough division to get out of. This season a lot of people were expecting stability or mid-table. Not many were expecting us to challenge for the play-offs and that’s testament to the job the manager has done. He’s a great leader and is very thorough, so hopefully he gets that contract signed and stays.

You joined Liverpool at 16. Tell us a bit about that experience…

I’d signed a two year deal with Lincoln City and was just starting the second year when there was a bit of interest. I was captain of the youth team and had played a few games for the reserves, but only played something like three minutes for the first team. I had a two-week trial at Liverpool and then it seemed to drag on for a while as there was interest from other clubs.

It was a bit of a weird one really. I was playing for Lincoln City then all of a sudden I’d joined the Champions of Europe. The reserve team manager, Paco Herrera, played me in central midfield which took a bit of getting used to. I was

“You win and lose as a team and it’s important to remember that. We probably didn’t do ourselves justice... but we don’t blame anybody for what happened. It’s important that we stick together.”


Hopefully I can play in the Premier League again... and score the winner at Anfield!

used to just heading the ball and getting it clear and then I was right in the thick of the action. I felt a bit out of my depth but looking back I’m grateful as it helped bring on my game.

Were the likes of Jamie Carragher and Steven Gerrard approachable?

They were both fantastic. During one pre-season friendly in

Switzerland I’d had an absolute shocker, a real nightmare of a game and Jamie Carragher came to see how I was, which was a nice touch. Sami Hyypia was top class and used to give me loads of advice. He was a great centre-half and a top guy.

What was it like playing in the first team under Rafa Benitez?

He was very tactically precise. He nitpicked with even the smallest things and I guess that’s what makes the difference. I learnt a lot and will always be grateful to him as he gave me the chance to play in the Premier League. Hopefully I can play in the Premier League again in the next few years with Leicester City and score the winner at Anfield!

Who did you support growing up and which footballers did you look up to?

I was a Spurs fan because my dad was from London and I used to be a Junior Spur. I looked up to my dad a lot. He was actually a really good player, probably better than me! He was in the Navy and always tells a story about how he fell out of a

tree and broke his ankle the week before FA trials!

In terms of professional footballers, I really admire Ledley King. He’s a top defender. To not train all week and then play the way he does is really inspirational. Sami Hyypia was also someone I looked up to.

What’s the aim for City next season, play-offs again or maybe higher?

It’s a tough one because reaching the play-offs this season has raised everybody’s expectations. Hopefully we can push on and go again, but it all seems a long way off at the moment. There are a lot of positives to take into next

season and we’re really looking forward to having another crack at it.

Finally Jack, what would be your message to the City supporters?

Thanks for all your great support this season. We got so close to the play-off final and we’ll be looking to go that one step further.

Whether City can make that leap in to the top flight will no doubt depend heavily on the precocious talent of Jack Hobbs; the young defender with a maturity way beyond his years and a bright future at the Walkers Stadium.


W hen 2005 Ashes hero Matthew Hoggard left Yorkshire at the end of

last season a few eyebrows were raised in the cricket world. Seeking extra responsibility, Hoggy was enticed to Leicestershire with the offer of club captaincy and the chance to pass on his experience and expertise to a group of promising young cricketers.

To bring in a player of Hoggard’s reputation was a real coup for the Foxes and a signal of the county’s intent to ensure a return to the glory years. After a blistering start, which included a first away win in four years, Leicestershire have been inconsistent in recent weeks. The captain has plenty of belief in the team’s ability but is looking for the players to raise their game.

“We have got some very talented players. We just need them to show their talent on a more regular basis than the fleeting glimpses we’ve got at the moment. The standard is better than I thought it was, but the consistency just isn’t there at the moment. We’ve played some very good cricket in amongst some very poor cricket.”

Hoggard believes it’s down to the players to improve but is prepared to support them as much as possible.

HOGGY STYLE

“Individual players need to sort their consistency out when they’re in the middle batting, fielding or bowling. I haven’t got the bat or ball in hand. It’s up to them to make sure they’re choosing the right shots at the right time and that they’re backing themselves.

“I try to put belief in them and tell them that I back them. They need to go out and play the way they want to play. It’s a learning curve. We’ve got a young side and hopefully we can learn quickly because if we don’t we’ll keep losing.”

Hoggy has relished the extra responsibility of captaincy even if it’s perhaps taken some focus away from his own performances.

“It’s been fantastic and the challenge that I wanted and needed. The cricket side of it is going ok and

I like the extra responsibility. The meetings and all the background stuff you have to attend is extra work, but that goes with the territory. I’ve really enjoyed it and the club have been fantastic.

“I’m thinking about a lot more things on the field like who should be bowling and who should be fielding where and sometimes forgetting about my own performance. It’s standing up at the moment but hopefully it’ll get better.”

Matthew sees the opportunity to put his theories into practice as a bonus and admitted he now takes the game home with him more than he used to.

“I do and it’s only right that I do. It’s nice to be able to implement what you’re actually wanting rather than just thinking about it, telling

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“I do like to listen to everybody, but in the end it’s my way. If I don’t agree with it then we don’t do it.”

Photo: Chadwicks/LCCC

someone else and they think ‘thanks but no, I’m not going to do it that way’, so it’s been good.”

Although very much his own man, the straight-talking swing bowler, is still keen to take advice from his team-mates.

“I welcome everybody’s view from the youngest guys to the oldest. It’s not a dictatorship. I do like to listen to everybody, but in the end it’s my way. If I don’t agree with it then we don’t do it. I’m not the font of all knowledge and I’m not a guru. I still need help and I’ve got some good players to call upon for that help.”

Now 33, Hoggard has enjoyed an extremely successful career at county and international level and revealed how his love affair with the game started at an early age back in Pudsey, in Yorkshire.

“I started playing because we lived near a local cricket club and every time I got underneath my mum’s feet she kicked me out to the cricket club! I played a lot for

Pudsey Congs and I was lucky that Phil Carrick came to captain the first team. I was playing third team cricket when Phil saw me bowling in the nets and brought me into the first team. He talked to Yorkshire about me, got me a trial and the rest is history.”

As part of his early cricketing career, Hoggy’s mentor and former Yorkshire captain, Phil Carrick, arranged for him to stay

with friends in South Africa to experience a different type of cricket and Matthew saw Phil and the experience abroad as a big part of his education in the sport.

“Phil had a huge influence on me. If it wasn’t for him, I wouldn’t be playing cricket, so I owe a great deal to him. I was 18 when I went there,

learning about myself. It was a good standard and a great learning curve on and off the pitch. Sadly, he died in 2000 whilst I was playing in South Africa and regrettably I didn’t fly back for the funeral, so I never got to say goodbye properly to him.”

One of Hoggard’s greatest achievements was playing a major part in England’s famous 2005 Ashes victory over the Australians. Matthew fondly recalls the euphoria

of victory for the players and the country as a whole.

“It was fantastic. There were no other sporting events on at the time so we weren’t competing with any other sports. Australia were a very good side at the time and to win the Ashes for the first time in 18 years was very special.


Follow the Foxes in this season’s Friends Provident twenty20 competition! Advanced match tickets are available for £12 adults and £5 under 16s. Please visit http://shop.leicestershireccc.co.uk for more information.

Photo: Chadwicks/LCCC

“We’d never been front page, back page or middle pages of the newspapers before. We were normally squeezed into a half page in the sports section because nobody was interested in cricket.

“The way that the nation was gripped by the Ashes in 2005 was fantastic. Everybody was getting off work to watch us, the TV’s at the golf courses had it on, it was just everywhere. Then we went on the open bus tour around London and I thought two men and a dog would turn up, but it was so well received. It was unbelievable.”

The desire to play for his country and wear those three lions on his chest still burns inside Hoggard. However, he concedes his chance might have gone and is prepared to channel that hunger into transforming Leicestershire’s fortunes.

“I’m a realist. I still want to play for England but I don’t think I will again so I’ll throw myself into Leicester and hopefully make Leicester the force that they were in the late 1990s.”

Hoggy paid tribute to England’s recent World Twenty-20 victory and enjoyed watching the team triumph in an international tournament.

“It was fantastic and there were some great performances. They can clear the ropes now and I think that was a weakness in the past. We’ve found a group of players that can hit sixes and fours and they did just that. It was a fantastic victory.”

Hoggard believes the excitement of T-20 is good for the future of cricket and is looking forward to seeing Grace Road full for the county’s fixtures.

“It’s good fun, exciting and gets the spectators involved and everybody wants to watch it. Anything that can get youngsters interested in cricket has got to be good.

“I am looking forward to the Twenty-20 season. We’ve got a good squad with some big, powerful hitters and obviously Brad Hodge comes in to strengthen us. It’s a competition that we’re looking to do well in.”

Hoggy On

Mates from the England days…Harmy (Steve Harmison), Freddie (Andrew Flintoff), Jimmy Anderson and Ashley Giles.

Best batsmen faced…Matthew Hayden, Ricky Ponting, Brian Lara, Sachin Tendulkar and Inzamam-ul-Haq. Any of your modern day greats, I’ve played against them.

Relaxing away from the game…Walking dogs is a good one and playing with Ernie, my three-year-old son.

The future…I’m doing my coaching badges this winter so it does interest me and it’s on my radar is coaching.

21

LEICESTER GENEROCITYUgandan youngsters have benefited from the kind generosity of Leicestershire junior football clubs and Clifton Packaging PLC, who have donated and distributed over eighty boxes of sporting equipment to the African country.

The initiative, Kits4Africa, was launched in 2007 by Leicester City Council, with seventy boxes of

sports equipment sent to Uganda in the first two years of the project.

Steve Humphries, City Council Sports Marketing Manager and Kits4Africa project coordinator, said: “Once again, the junior football community across Leicestershire has risen to the challenge and shown their generosity to the young people of Uganda.

“I am so grateful to Clifton Packaging for their support, especially during these difficult economic times.” Shahid Sheikh, Managing Director of Clifton Packaging PLC, flew out with the kit to Kingdom of Tooro, Western Uganda on Tuesday April 13th.

He said: “None of this equipment would be here if it wasn’t for the kind support of all the clubs and partners involved.”

For further information on how to support the Kits4Africa project contact Steve Humphries on 0116 252 8509 or e-mail [email protected]

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For good quality, affordable and reliable print services, including our great value flyers, see below:

Flyers printed in full colour with a machine seal onto both sides of a high quality, triple coated silk 300gsm board. Delivery usually within 3 working days of order.Note: Delivery to your premises is mandatory. Flyer print does not incur VAT.

For more information and a full price list for our flyers or any other print solutionsincluding: leaflets, business cards, comp slips, letterheads and posters

call 0116 2616 892 or visit www.soarprint.co.uk

SIZE QTY DESIGN DELIVERY PRINT

C.Card 2500 £50 £10 £55

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DL 2500 £80 £10 £110

A5 2500 £90 £15 £130


One of Leicester’s most famous sons, Peter Shilton joined Leicester City as a schoolboy in 1�6�, making his debut as a teenager, eventually replacing the great Gordon Banks in goal. Shilton went on to enjoy a remarkable career, winning the League title, European Cups and establishing himself as England’s number one and most capped player…

What are your memories of breaking through at Leicester and training with Gordon Banks?Jay, Evington Hard work! Having the world’s number one keeper to compete against was never easy. A single-minded focus, combined with determination and a high intensity training programme was how I achieved and maintained the ability to perform with the best.

England fans have fond memories of Italia ’90. Can you sum up the feeling in the squad during the tournament? Jo Foster, BlabyThe passion in the squad to not let a single Englishman down inspired our performances. At no time did we think that we were not going to win the World Cup. Walking out onto the pitch in the semi-finals to face West Germany is up there with my most memorable moments and Gary Lineker scoring in the final minutes is something I will never forget.

only keep improving. The fact that the squad is young is promising. As long as Nigel can hang on to key members we’ll have a good chance of promotion.

You’re still England’s record appearance holder. What does that mean to you?Amy Smith, Loughborough It is a fantastic privilege. I can’t really put it into words. To play at the highest level more than anyone else in England was something I aspired to achieve and through total commitment, determination and hard work I did it.

Some people say that goalkeepers don’t make good managers. Did you enjoy

If you could take one player from the Italia ’90 squad and add him to England’s World Cup eleven, who would it be? Abdul, LeicesterI would love the opportunity to play in another World Cup, but I would say Gazza. Walking out with a personality with such exceptional talent was a huge asset. Nowadays, I think Wayne Rooney firing on all cylinders will give England a great chance.

What do you make of the job Nigel Pearson has done at Leicester City? Nick, Market HarboroughNigel has done a great job from the team he inherited. Leicester are still rebuilding after Peter Taylor and can


ICON


2�

management and would you ever have another crack at it?Trev, Plymouth I certainly preferred playing! I was given a fantastic opportunity, which I enjoyed, but unfortunately it didn’t quite work out. I don’t think management is anything I would consider now.

You have to understand the mentality of a goalkeeper to understand why there are few goalkeepers in management. Having a training career on the other side of the pitch from the outfield players focuses the mind solely on your own performances.

Who was the best player you played with and against?Andy, StokeDes Walker was a great defender, along with Terry Butcher. Goalkeepers want centre-halves that put themselves on the line. The best I played against was probably the small Number 10 from Argentina. You know the rest.

Have you spoken to Diego Maradona since the hand of god incident? Paul, via e-mailYes. He knows he was a lucky man.

Having that happen to you in view of the world was a sickening feeling as you knew it was a cheating act.

Do you have a favourite save from your career? Gemma, via e-mailI remember pulling off a save almost identical to Gordon Banks’ famous Pele save on the Leicester training pitch from Len Glover. Some of the crucial saves I pulled off against Cameroon were memorable due to the pressure around that match.

Tell us a bit about what it was like to work under Brian Clough?Nigel Jarvis, via e-mailHe was a unique man that demanded the best from everyone connected to his club, whether that be the centre-forward or toilet cleaner. He would draw the best out of everyone, turning an average player into an exceptional performer. Staying on Brian Clough’s right side was always advisable, although sometimes it was difficult to understand exactly which side that was!

To find out who our ICON will be for issue ten, released in September, visit our website www.soarmagazine.co.uk

What do you make of England’s goalkeeping options and who would be your first choice?David Cheshire, Syston Joe Hart has had an outstanding 12 months but is yet to be fully tested at international level. I’m confident he will not let England down if called upon. David James has the experience and with Robert Green, England have three quality keepers. Green should have the shirt though due to previous international experience and current form.

Do you still live in Leicestershire and if not, do you visit the area much?Beckie, via e-mailI am based in Warwickshire now but visit Leicester a least five times a month.

2�

ICON

To book Peter Shilton for Personal Appearances, Golf days & Events, Motivational & After Dinner Speaking or to book any other Celebrity, please contact Oliver Willson, Celebrity Manager at Champions UK Plc – 08453 31 30 31 / 07976 170576 or email [email protected]


2�

DirectoryAmerican FootballLeicester Falconswww.leicesterfalcons.co.uk

AthleticsLeicester Marathonwww.leicestermarathon.org.uk

BadmintonLeicestershire Badminton Assoc.www.lbabadminton.org

BaseballLeicester Blue Sox www.leicesterbluesox.co.uk

BasketballLeicester Riderswww.ridersbasketball.com

BowlsLeicestershire Bowling Assoc. www.leicestershirebowls.com

CricketLeicestershire CCCwww.leicestershireccc.com Leicestershire & Rutland Boardwww.lrcb-cricket.co.uk

CyclingLeicestershire Road Clubwww.leicestershireroadclub.org.uk

DodgeballLeicester Dodgeball Leaguewww.interdodgeball.co.uk

FencingLeicester Fencing Clubwww.leicesterfencingclub.com

FootballLeicester City FCwww.lcfc.comLeicestershire & Rutland FAwww.leicestershirefa.com

GolfLeicestershire & Rutland Golf Unionwww.lrgu.tolleyweb.co.uk GymnasticsLeicestershire Gymnastics Assoc.www.leicestershiregymnastics.co.uk

HockeyLeicestershire Hockey Assoc. www.lmha.co.ukLeicester Ladies Hockey Club www.leicesterhc.co.uk

Horse RacingLeicester Racecourse www.leicester-racecourse.co.uk

Martial ArtsCKI School of Martial Arts(Queen’s Award winner for community and voluntary service)Tel. 07808 277 893Urban Martial Artswww.urbanmartialarts.com

Matt Hampson TrustOfficial websitewww.matthampson.co.uk

MotorsportDonington Parkwww.donington-park.co.ukMallory Parkwww.mallorypark.co.uk

NetballLeicestershire Netball Assoc.www.lcna.co.ukLoughborough Lightningwww.loughboroughlightning.co.uk

Outdoor PursuitsLeicester Outdoor Pursuits Centrewww.lopc.co.uk

RowingLeicester Rowing Clubwww.leicester-rowing.co.uk

Rugby LeagueLeicester Phoenixwww.leicesterphoenixrlfc.co.uk

Rugby UnionLeicestershire Rugby Unionwww.leicsru.netLeicester Tigerswww.leicestertigers.com

SailingRutland Sailing Clubwww.rutlandsc.co.uk

SpeedwayLeicester Lionswww.leicester-speedway.co.uk

SquashLeicester Squash Clubwww.leicestersquashclub.co.uk

SwimmingLeicester Masters Swimming Clubhttp://beehive.thisisleicestershire.co.uk/lmscLoughborough University Swimmingwww.loughboroughswimming.com

TennisLeicestershire Lawn Tennis Assoc. leicestershire.totaltennis.net

TriathlonLeicester Triathlon Clubwww.leicestertriathlonclub.co.uk

UltimateLeicester Ultimate Clubwww.leicesterultimatefrisbee.co.uk

VolleyballLeicester Volleyball Clubwww.leicestervolleyballclub.net

Wheelchair BasketballLeicester Cobraswww.leicestercobras.org.uk

All County ActivitiesLeicester-Shire & Rutland Sportwww.lrsport.org.uk

Soar Magazine is not responsible for the content of these websites

In association with:

To find your nearest Lifestyle Fitness suite visit www.leicester.gov.uk/lifestylefitness

2�

soarhealth


See page 32 for feature article.


STOPSMOKINGAs official partners of Soar Magazine, the NHS Leicester City Stop Smoking team are clearly passionate about their work. In previous issues of our publication, they have covered everything from celebrity endorsements and vox pops of the public, to smokefree events and direct pleas to the smoking community.

Qasim Chowdary, the Stop Smoking Specialist Advisor for Children, Young People and Families, plays a critical role in preventing young people from turning to the habit of smoking.

Qasim has a specific responsibility for discouraging smoking between 11 and 15 year olds. This is a critical period in time as there is a smoking rate of only 1 in every 100 11 year olds who smoke, yet it rises to almost 1 in every 4 by the time these young people reach 15. As Qasim explains, this has a ripple effect which can be felt for many years.

“The younger the person is, the more likely they are to be loyal to a particular brand and the more opportunity there is for the cigarette firm to increase the profit they can make from the individual.”

Alarmingly, that consumer loyalty

results in an astronomical figure of deaths in the UK every year, a figure that Qasim and the team are relentlessly working against.

“Cigarettes are the only legal product that when used exactly as intended, kill half those using them before their time. There is little doubt that smoking-related deaths are a hidden catastrophe that we are fighting against.”

So, with the responsibility that

Qasim holds for young people in Leicester, his core activity is focused upon schools, in order to have the greatest impact. The work includes these three components:

Treatment – “We are working towards having a clinic in every secondary school in the city, so that students can gain access to a trained advisor who can deliver effective smoking cessation treatment.”

Education – “Smokefree messages are normally directed towards adults, using the longer-term consequences related to health, but now we are able to tailor more youth appropriate messages.”

Youth Culture – “We believe young people are innovators and the right messages, along with peer influence, are crucial tools to reduce the uptake of smoking among young people.”


2�Leicester City

NHSHELPING LEICESTER STOP SMOKING

01162954141 STOP!

ANEDUCATION

Whether you are a smoker or not, there is always something you can do to help young people stay clear of cigarettes.

Sports coaches, and others involved in work with young people, have an influential role to play. The health and fitness of young people is important to the success of their team, and tackling smoking in this age group will bring benefits for all.

How can you get involved?

Key Facts

Approximately 450 people die every year in Leicester from a smoking related illness, and many of these will die before their time. The poorest people smoke the most.

There are over 100 smoking places where people can go to get help to stop smoking in Leicester City, including community centres, pharmacies and schools.

Four strands tobacco education:Tobacco Industry – We look at the powerful nature of the industry and how reliant they are upon people continuing to buy tobacco.

Wealth of Consumers – We focus on the ‘x’ amount a day, week or year that smokers spend, along with the wider social issues, such as how much a community loses as a result of smoking.

Health – Through this we attempt to look at the short-term and immediate effects, such as breathlessness when doing sport, and the effect on looks, rather than what happens in middle age.

2�

In the build-up to the 2012 London Olympics, Qasim and the team are available to visit your clubs and sports centres to give a FREE presentation and speak directly to your players about smoking.

Why not give them a call on 0116 295 4141 and play your part in making a difference? One quick phone call could do so much, for so many.

For more information on the work that Qasim and the wider NHS Leicester City Stop Smoking team are doing, or to speak directly to an advisor, call 0116 295 4141.

Addiction – In terms of biological and psychological factors that are part of the addiction, and which make tobacco so difficult to give up.

Contact


From ‘well man clinics’ to gym and World Cup challenges, there is an activity for everyone during Men’s Health Week.

For a complete schedule of the activities taking place visit www.lrsport.org.uk/menshealth

An interactive quiz called ‘A Question of Health’ is running alongside the numerous activities on offer. The winner will be given the unique opportunity to enter a team for free in this summer’s ‘Legends’ 5-a-side football tournament being held at Judgemeadow Soccer Centre, August 1st 2010. To enter the quiz visit www.lrsport.org.uk/menshealth

Whether male or female, challenge yourself to find out how much you

“It’s important to stay as fit and physically active as possible, no matter what your age, to maintain a healthy body and mind. I still try to keep in shape by playing the odd game of five-a-side and helping out with the Soccer Academy that I run with another former Leicester player, Muzzy Izzet.

“A lot of men get to a certain age and stop playing football or other sports, but there are so many other activities you can do that have a little less intensity but plenty of benefit, like swimming or golf.”

In Leicestershire, only 24.5% of men do enough physical activity to benefit their health. In Leicester this figure is 22.1% and in Rutland it is 29.0%. This means approximately three quarters of men should aim to increase their physical activity.

BEACTIVEfor Men’s Health Weekacross Leicestershire and Rutland

know about men’s health related topics. If you learn something new then why not share this with one other person to help raise awareness of men’s health issues?

The Legends tournament is being organised by Leicester City legend Steve Walsh (pictured with his Legends team below), who is supporting Men’s Health Week and the former Foxes captain explained how he stays healthy.

�1

Men’s Health Week14th - 20th June 2010

Great sports and activities nearer than you think...Try our ‘A Question of Health Quiz’ - Great prizes to be won

Visit www.lrsport.org.uk/menshealth

What you do is up to YOU!

“It’s important to stay as fit and physically active as possible, no matter what your age,

to maintain a healthy body and mind.” Steve Walsh

There are a number of benefits associated with taking part in regular, physical activity:

• Health – prevention and control of numerous illnesses, helping to maintain strong and healthy bones/joints/muscles and helping with weight control

• Social – meeting new people, taking up a new hobby and doing activities with friends and family

• Wellbeing – improving your mood, increasing your confidence and gaining more self-esteem

Here are some easy steps that you can take to help you to start leading a more active lifestyle:

• Slowly build up your activity levels• Introduce physical activity into daily life• Walk whenever possible• Get off/on the bus a stop earlier/later• Park in a space furthest from the shop/work entrance• Do an activity with family, friends or colleagues• Find an activity that you enjoy

For a guide to what is on in your area visit www.lrsport.org.uk or contact the Physical Activity Team on 01509 564870.

Active Rutland


INTRODUCINGLIFESTYLEFITNESSLeicester City Council’s Lifestyle Fitness is a concept designed to encourage local residents to become healthier and more physically active whilst utilising the facilities and equipment that the council has to offer.

These facilities compare favourably with many of the city’s private gyms and help provide an inclusive and welcoming exercise environment that represents great value for money.

Fitness Suites

Four of the Council’s Sports and Leisure Centres have air conditioned Lifestyle Fitness suites, which consist of cardiovascular, resistance and free weights equipment. Qualified Health and Fitness instructors are on hand at all centres to offer members free healthy eating and fitness advice.

A Member’s Journey consultation procedure has been designed to help provide members the direction and motivation to develop and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Fitness Classes are available at many of the Council leisure facilities. ‘All Inclusive’ membership offers

The Tower Climbing Centre, a unique facility in the East Midlands, hosts a number of adventurous activities, climbing skills training and tailored coaching programmes.

Outdoor Facilities

The synthetic pitches are suitable for football and hockey, for competitive fixtures, training and smaller sided games. Knighton Tennis Centre provides a range of tennis coaching for the local community.

Saffron Lane Athletics Stadium has a brand new 8-lane synthetic track surface, full field event facilities and a sports pavilion.

For more information about Lifestyle Fitness, membership and all of the facilities on offer visit www.leicester.gov.uk/sport

a variety of classes, ranging from Pilates to Cardio Combat.

Indoor Facilities

A whole host of swimming pools across the city are accessible to Lifestyle Fitness members, ranging from 25m and 33m pools with four lanes and 18m to 25m teaching pools with two lanes. The swim lessons are popular with both adults and children. The city pools offer many activities, including adult only swims, 50+ swims, family swims and splash disco swims.

Seven facilities provide a sports hall that hosts different activities, including badminton, basketball (including wheelchair), cricket, gymnastics and general hall hire.

New Parks Leisure Centre boasts five high quality squash courts, whilst Leicester Leys has two.


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“The centre prides itself on creating a safe

and friendly environment, where people can

relax and enjoy their leisure activity amongst

friends. This service orientated approach

is pivotal in ensuring the healthy lifestyle

message reaches out to all parts of the

community.” Jayne Henderson, Braunstone

Leisure Centre Facility Manager

Exercise at Your Leisure

A profile of the Braunstone

and Leicester Leys Leisure Centres

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W alking into Braunstone’s open-plan foyer, the sense of community and

inclusion is as evident as the familiar scent of chlorine and polished wood. The modern design is pleasing on the eye but also practical, providing local residents with fantastic facilities.

The £10m development was built six years ago, but the facilities still look and feel brand new. Braunstone Leisure Centre was built for the people of the Braunstone Estate, but also attracts users from further afield.

Facility Manager, Jayne Henderson, took Soar Magazine on a walk around the leisure centre, stopping to chat with staff and customers, sharing stories of their progress.

Key Facilities

Swimming PoolArguably the jewel in the Leisure Centre’s crown, the main swimming pool is up there with some of the very best in the county. Regularly hosting galas for local clubs and schools, the pool has a retractable moving floor to control depth and panels to block off certain sections. This helps to ensure swimmer safety for different ages and abilities. The

Braunstone Leisure Centre

pool is also used for synchronised swimming and aqua-aerobics.

The GymWell kitted out with a free weights area, but whilst many users develop their strength and muscle mass, it isn’t a haven for body builders as only certain weights are available. This helps contribute to a welcoming and inclusive environment. The cardio vascular equipment, including treadmills and exercise bikes, used for the popular spinning classes, are in a separate room.

Main Sports HallThe huge sports hall is used for a variety of different activities for all ages. It has a special sprung floor which makes it popular for basketball and Leicester Warriors play their home games here, making the most of the 400 retractable seats available for spectators.

Cafeteria and Social AreaThe cafeteria has a good range of

food and drink, including fresh fruit, vegetables and smoothies. Alcohol is also sold as well as snacks and meals. Anyone can use the cafeteria for meetings and chat with friends over a coffee. ‘The Street’, as it is known, has comfortable seating areas with a great view of the pool.

Providing Careers

Health and Fitness Instructor, Ben Tebbutt, is one of the centre’s success stories. Ben provided his views on Braunstone’s facilities and the impact it has on his life…

“I was one of the first employees through the door when it opened. I’m originally from Braunstone and it’s been good for my career. I started off as a lifeguard and worked my way up to be a health and fitness instructor. Working here has been great for me.”

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A slightly older building, with just as much to offer, Leicester Leys has two popular selling points. The Leisure Centre hosts the finest climbing wall facility in the county and the leisure pool continues to prove popular.

Pool Duty Manager, Rachel Standley, and Ian Wells, a local student on a work placement, provided an informative tour of the facilities, starting off in the pool and finishing at the foot of the climbing wall.

Key Facilities

Swimming PoolsFour different sized pools and water areas make the swimming area very family friendly. The toys, water slides and the very popular wave machine provide great fun and health benefits for kids and adults of all ages.

Sports Hall The sports hall is as large as it is diverse and can be used for badminton, basketball, trampolining,

Ben encouraged local residents who haven’t used the facilities to get involved.

“It’s great to see the change in people’s lives. We never had anything like this when I was growing up and it’s made a huge impact. It’s on your doorstep so make the most of it. Get fit, get active and improve your lifestyle.”

Facility Manager, Jayne Henderson, explained how the Leisure Centre tries to meet users’ requirements and how they aim to be as inclusive as possible.

“We listen and consult with our

users all the time and if there’s something they want, we get our staff trained up to offer it. It’s about the members going on a journey and using the leisure centre to facilitate that.

“People don’t have to wear the right sportswear. If lads want to come in for a swim in shorts and without a t-shirt, then we don’t mind. We try to create a family environment so people feel comfortable.”

“It’s about the members going on a journey and using the leisure centre to facilitate that.”

Leicester Leys Leisure Centre

with children and first-time climbers, to the much taller leading tower, which is approximately 40ft high.

Climbing is a sport growing in popularity and the walls at Leicester Leys are popular with climbing groups, couples and families and are accessible to anybody who fancies a go. Certain suitability tests and safety checks need to be carried out before people can climb and courses are provided for

gymnastics and circuit training. Roller discos also take place on Friday and Saturday nights.

GymThe gym is well designed and absolutely crammed with equipment. A separate cardio room with treadmills and bikes is divided from the weight machines and free weight rooms.

ClimbingThere are three alternative walls for climbers of different abilities, ranging from a beginner, popular

When asked what her message would be to local residents keen on visiting the facility, Jayne encouraged them to give it a try.

“This is your leisure centre and we want you to use it at every feasible opportunity. It’s never too late to make a lifestyle change to a healthier and happier life. Centre staff are always close by to encourage every new user.”


FACTS AND STATS• The ten City Sports and Leisure Centres have 102,000 members. 80,000 are City residents and 22,000 are County residents.

• On average 8000 people visit Braunstone Leisure Centre a week with an average of 420,000 per year.

• Last year, nearly 390,000 users came through the doors at Leicester Leys Leisure Centre, almost 7,500 people each week.

• You don’t have to be a member to use the facilities, but you can join for just £29 a month, which entitles you to use all of the facilities at all of the city leisure centres.

• The changing rooms for the swimming pool at Braunstone have been designed in a village style, allowing women and men to change in the same area, separated by cubicles. Parents can change in the same room as their children in safety and privacy and school visits are divided in to their own sections.

• The Leicester Leys climbing walls were built at the leisure centre around 12 years ago, becoming the first of their type in Leicester. It remains the highest climbing wall in the Midlands.

• Free swimming at Leicester Leys takes place between 4pm and 7.30pm at the beginning of the week and 4pm and 8pm on Thursdays and Fridays. At the weekends free swimming is provided between 2pm and 5pm on Saturday afternoons and 2pm and 6pm on a Sunday afternoon.

For more information on any of the city’s leisure centres visit www.leicester.gov.uk/sports. To join Braunstone Leisure Centre call 0116 22� �22� or for Leicester Leys Leisure Centre call 0116 2�� 0�0.

complete beginners to learn the basic skills.

Rachel explained how the Leisure Centre tries to be as inclusive as possible and believes that the climbing wall is one of the facility’s best kept secrets.

“We do our best to be affordable for everyone. The gym provides free tours for people wanting to see what the facilities are like. If we can do it there and then, without an appointment, then we will.

“When people come in they expect good service... We all strive to make sure that is the case and provide the best and most affordable service”

“A lot of people in the climbing industry already knew about the climbing wall because it’s one of only a few in the midlands, but absolute beginners don’t tend to know it’s here. When they find out they get themselves on a course and it’s very popular.”

Ian Wells talked about the pride that the staff take in maintaining high standards.

“When people come in they expect good service, the place to be clean and the staff to be friendly and helpful. We all strive to make sure that is the case and provide the best and most affordable service that we can.”

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For a range of workout DVDs to help you shape up at home, visit www.deanhodgkin.com

Fitness 4 FreeHealth and Fitness Guru, Dean Hodgkin, ensures the credit crunch won’t bite into your hopes of getting in shape with these useful tips…

Shop ‘Til You Drop Walk briskly around the shopping centre, ensuring you cover the whole footprint, prior to stopping to look in the shop windows or purchase. In addition, take the stairs instead of the lift or escalator.

At The Carwash Forget the automatic carwash and lay off the valet. You can do it just as well and enjoy burning calories at the same time.

Go To The DogsTake the dog for more frequent walks and aim to gradually increase the distance you cover.

Crunch Time If you are confined to a desk all day you could still give the waistline a good workout. Sitting upright with a long neck and shoulder blades drawn back, lightly grip the edges of the chair for support. Pulling the abdominals in, slowly lift your knees towards your chest.

Kids Stuff Try to find new ways to play actively with the children. From football to Frisbee, hopscotch to hide-and-seek, you can make a serious difference to both your energy levels and your relationship with a little quality time.

Hanging Around How much time do you spend on hold during telephone calls? Try doing some squats or leg lifts to the side or rear, next time you are parked on a switchboard.

Shanks’ Pony Could you leave your car at home for that little errand?

Green Fingers Getting busy in the garden is a good workout, so try planting something soon. Who knows you might even end up eating the fruits of your labours?

Let’s Talk At the office go face-to-face instead of telephoning or sending an e-mail to your colleagues.

Copy Me Next time you’re waiting for your photocopies, put both hands on the sturdy frame of the machine, move your feet well back and try some slow incline press-ups to tone the chest, shoulders and arms.

Supermarket Aerobics How quickly can you do the grocery shopping? Ensure you go up and back down every aisle, even if you don’t need anything in those particular sections. Pack your own bags and carry them to the car yourself. If you must use the trolley for this, take it back to the store rather than leaving it at a collection point in the car park.

Going Back In Time If the weather is too miserable to play outside, take the kids to a museum. They tend to be pretty large establishments so while the kids learn a little history, you lose a few pounds. An all-round winner.

Television Toning During the advertisement breaks, hit the floor for some sit-ups or jog on the spot to relieve the boredom and keep your metabolic rate on a high.

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soarlifestyle

The Leicestershire public gather at Leicester Market’s hugely successful Summer Food and Drink Festival on Sunday May 30th.

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MATTHEW BOURNE’S SWAN LAKE

MON 20 — SAT 25 SEP

Matthew Bourne’s thrilling, multi award-winning all-male ballet.

“ It will change the way you see ballet forever” What’s On

VERTICAL ROAD

TUE 14 — SAT 18 SEP

A CURVE CO-PRODUCTION WITH AKRAM KHAN COMPANY

Inspired by the myths of angels, this exciting World Premiere features music by Nitin Sawhney.

PUNK ROCK

TUE 9 — SAT 13 NOV

LYRIC HAMMERSMITH & ROYAL EXCHANGE THEATRE MANCHESTER

A blistering new play by Simon Stephens.

A FESTIVAL OF FRIEL


A CURVE PRODUCTION TRANSLATIONS AND MOLLY SWEENEY

Two beautiful award-winning Irish dramas by Brian Friel.

RODGERS & HAMMERSTEIN’S THE KING & I

FRI 3 DEC — SAT 15 JAN

A CURVE PRODUCTION, MUSIC BY RICHARD RODGERS BOOK & LYRICS BY OSCAR HAMMERSTEIN II

A spectacular, lavish musical treat for Christmas.

Cast includes West End star, Janie Dee (Calendar Girls, Mack and Mabel, Woman in Mind).

THE RED SHOES

TUE 5 – SAT 9 OCT

KNEEHIGH THEATRE COMPANY

Surreal, sensuous, bloody and bare – a luscious physical fairytale.

“ Delirious, witty, macabre… A show to die for” The Guardian

HOT STUFF

SAT 2 OCT — SAT 6 NOV

A CURVE PRODUCTION

The devil wears high heels in this wickedly outrageous musical. Stars Ceri Dupree as Lucy Fur.

WHAT’SAUTUMN/WINTER AT CURVE NOW ON SALE

Sep/Oct/Nov/Dec//2010

TICKETS 0116 242 3595 www.curveonline.co.uk

TUE 14 — SAT 18 SEP TUE 14 — SAT 18 SEP TUE 9 — SAT 13 NOV



TUE 5 – SAT 9 OCT

“One of the best plays of the year” Sunday Express

“ Riveting to watch and superbly acted”

The Guardian

Curve has joined up with many theatres in the country to offer you a choice of truly great nights out at the theatre, and if you’re under 26, it’s absolutely free – but hurry, shows have a limited number of free tickets available. For details about the scheme and how to claim your free tickets, please visit our website at www.curveonline.co.uk or call the team in the Ticket Offi ce on 0116 242 3595. A Night Less Ordinary is an Arts Council England scheme. For more information about the scheme visit www.anightlessordinary.org.uk

CURVE, RUTLAND STREET, CULTURAL QUARTER, LEICESTER LE1 1SB

A NIGHT LESS ORDINARY

FREE TICKETS FOR UNDER 26s

Leicester Theatre Trust Limited gratefully acknowledges and welcomes the continued support of and partnership with the above organisations. Registered charity 230708.

SELLINGFAST!


EARLY BIRDDISCOUNTBOOK BY MONDAY 20 SEPTEMBER AND

SAVE £2 ON SELECTED PERFORMANCES

FROM 7 DECEMBER

Sponsored by

eastmidlandstrains.co.uk

41

MATTHEW BOURNE’S SWAN LAKE


Matthew Bourne’s thrilling, multi award-winning all-male ballet.

“ It will change the way you see ballet forever” What’s On

VERTICAL ROAD


A CURVE CO-PRODUCTION WITH AKRAM KHAN COMPANY

Inspired by the myths of angels, this exciting World Premiere features music by Nitin Sawhney.

PUNK ROCK

TUE 9 — SAT 13 NOV

LYRIC HAMMERSMITH & ROYAL EXCHANGE THEATRE MANCHESTER

A blistering new play by Simon Stephens.

A FESTIVAL OF FRIEL


A CURVE PRODUCTION TRANSLATIONS AND MOLLY SWEENEY

Two beautiful award-winning Irish dramas by Brian Friel.

RODGERS & HAMMERSTEIN’S THE KING & I


A CURVE PRODUCTION, MUSIC BY RICHARD RODGERS BOOK & LYRICS BY OSCAR HAMMERSTEIN II

A spectacular, lavish musical treat for Christmas.

Cast includes West End star, Janie Dee (Calendar Girls, Mack and Mabel, Woman in Mind).

THE RED SHOES

TUE 5 – SAT 9 OCT

KNEEHIGH THEATRE COMPANY

Surreal, sensuous, bloody and bare – a luscious physical fairytale.

“ Delirious, witty, macabre… A show to die for” The Guardian

HOT STUFF


A CURVE PRODUCTION

The devil wears high heels in this wickedly outrageous musical. Stars Ceri Dupree as Lucy Fur.

WHAT’SAUTUMN/WINTER AT CURVE NOW ON SALE

Sep/Oct/Nov/Dec//2010

TICKETS 0116 242 3595 www.curveonline.co.uk

TUE 14 — SAT 18 SEP TUE 14 — SAT 18 SEP TUE 9 — SAT 13 NOV



TUE 5 – SAT 9 OCT

“One of the best plays of the year” Sunday Express

“ Riveting to watch and superbly acted”

The Guardian

Curve has joined up with many theatres in the country to offer you a choice of truly great nights out at the theatre, and if you’re under 26, it’s absolutely free – but hurry, shows have a limited number of free tickets available. For details about the scheme and how to claim your free tickets, please visit our website at www.curveonline.co.uk or call the team in the Ticket Offi ce on 0116 242 3595. A Night Less Ordinary is an Arts Council England scheme. For more information about the scheme visit www.anightlessordinary.org.uk

CURVE, RUTLAND STREET, CULTURAL QUARTER, LEICESTER LE1 1SB

A NIGHT LESS ORDINARY

FREE TICKETS FOR UNDER 26s

Leicester Theatre Trust Limited gratefully acknowledges and welcomes the continued support of and partnership with the above organisations. Registered charity 230708.

SELLINGFAST!


EARLY BIRDDISCOUNTBOOK BY MONDAY 20 SEPTEMBER AND

SAVE £2 ON SELECTED PERFORMANCES

FROM 7 DECEMBER

Sponsored by

eastmidlandstrains.co.uk


The World Cup is here and it’s time to nail your colours to the mast. It’s time to pick the venue that’s going to host this summer’s festival of football and what could be the most memorable few weeks of your life.

Two establishments in Leicestershire have as many angles covered as Italy goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon. The Revolution bars on New Walk in Leicester city centre and on Baxter Gate in Loughborough are as prepared as England boss Fabio Capello for the South African showpiece.

For the feast of football, Revolution will provide a varied menu of their own with fresh food prepared on the premises. Pizzas, burgers and other great snacks, as well as more substantial meals are on sale throughout the day and into the evening, meaning plenty of quality sustenance for the hardy armchair supporter.

With a great selection of food and drinks, as well as huge HD screens that provide the width and entertainment of a free-flowing Aaron Lennon run, Revolution has everything a football fan could wish for this summer.

Both bars will be showing every single group and knockout fixture including all of England’s games. To avoid disappointment or ensure a table and a good view, you can reserve your seats before the game.

A Footballing Revolution…You want atmosphere, but you also want to sit down in comfort and see all the action? You want plenty of drinks to choose from, with the option of a snack or meal when you feel like it, but where is the right place?

The answer is Revolution and here’s why…

• Fantastic large screens and widescreen HD TV’s all around the bar mean you’ll be able to see all the action.

• A huge selection of drinks from across the globe, including beers, lagers and international vodkas. Why not pick a drink from the countries competing in the game you’re watching?

• The great variety of food.

Three World Cup favourites could be…

Great to shareThe Revolution Platter - A bowl of homemade chilli con carne, southern fried chicken goujons, beer battered onion rings, homemade potato wedges, crispy nachos with BBQ sauce, Reggae Reggae sauce, salsa and sour cream.

All for youRanch Burger – Handmade Lakeland beef patty, Monterey Jack cheese, cured back bacon and BBQ sauce with plum tomatoes, baby gem lettuce leaves and mayo.

Feel privilegedAny pizza and any drink for £7.95 (with a privilege card).

THE WILL BE TELEVISED

2010


4�

For further information visit www.revolution-bars.co.uk

Join Revolution on Facebook to receive latest offers. Search ‘Revolution Loughborough’ or ‘Revolution Leicester’.

FOOTYFEAST

BRAND NEW World Cup Specials

Cocktails…Raspberry Roo RooThe World Cup Pitcher

Offers Include…A beer and a burger for £6Or food and 3 drinks for only £12

England’s Fixtures

England Vs USASat 12th June

7.30pm Kick-off

The Three Lions open their campaign with a tough looking and possibly group defining fixture with the USA. A well drilled team that includes Premier League stars Tim Howard and Clint Dempsey, the Americans reached the 2009 Confederations Cup Final, narrowly losing to Brazil.

England Vs AlgeriaFri 18th June

7.30pm Kick-off

The North Africans have a number of technically gifted and tricky players, including left-back Nadir Belhadj so England will need to be on their toes to get the win. Power and strength in midfield could be key with the form of Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard vital.

Slovenia vs EnglandWeds 23rd June

3pm Kick-off

A team full of natural footballers all comfortable in possession, Slovenia could be Group C’s surprise package. England won’t want to go into this game needing victory. Wayne Rooney’s finishing could be the difference in what is likely to be a close encounter.

� Unmissable Matches

France Vs South AfricaTues 22nd June

3pm Kick-off

Hosts South Africa will need to use every ounce of home advantage to advance from Group A. Whether the French will be able ‘handle’ the South Africans with the same ease that Thierry Henry controls the ball remains to be seen.

Cameroon Vs HollandThurs 24th June7.30pm Kick-off

A contrast of styles makes this one a must watch as the power and pace of Cameroon meets the classy passing of the Netherlands. The lethal finishing of Samuel Eto’o will be key for the ‘Indomitable Lions’, whilst Wesley Sneijder’s vision could make the difference for the Dutch.

Portugal Vs BrazilFri 25th June3pm Kick-off

Plenty of twists and turns are on the cards in the ‘Group of Death’, which also contains Ivory Coast and the Korean Republic. King of the step-over, Cristiano Ronaldo, will go head to head with the sublimely skilful Kaka in a fixture likely to decide the group.

Revolution Leicester. 6b New Walk, Leicester LE1 6TFRevolution Loughborough. 13-14 Baxter Gate, Loughborough, LE11 1TG

4�


Give a little today for a brighter Vista tomorrow

GETINVOLVEDVista is a charity that aims to improve the lives of people with sight loss in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland. Vista helps 6000 blind and partially sighted local people by offering support, information and advice.

Support Vista in our vision of a world where people with sight loss of all ages have choice and control over their lives and no-one experiences avoidable sight loss.

There are hundreds of different ways you can raise money for Vista and have great fun with your friends, family and work colleagues.

Shane did it! Could you?Jump with the Red Devils for Vista!

Shane Roberts, a young deafblind man from Leicester, set his mind to do a tandem Skydive to raise money for Vista.

It was a bright but windy day at Langar Airfield. Shane went through his training for a tandem jump. This is where the person is attached to an experienced skydiver. The plane took off and disappeared behind clouds for what seemed like a very long time. Tiny coloured dots appeared high above the airport swirling in the air – it was Shane. He had successfully jumped from 12,000 feet and his first words

after landing were: “I want to do it again!”

Skydiving is a popular and fun way of raising funds for Vista. You can be certain that the funds you raise will make a huge difference. Minimum sponsorship £500.

4�

Jazz in the GardenOn Sunday July 18th, Vista is holding a very special ‘Jazz in the Garden’ afternoon at Belvoir Lodge, courtesy of Her Grace, Dowager Duchess of Rutland. As well as the opportunity to explore the gardens and take a breathtaking view of the Vale of Belvoir, there will be strawberries and cream and live Jazz by Trio ‘A Cool Ensemble’. The event is a great day out for the family to enjoy and raises vital funds for Vista.

Jazz in the Garden will start at 1pm and finish at 4pm. Tickets cost £6 and include some light refreshments.

The Big Fun Run September 2010Run for Vista at the Big Fun Run on Sunday September 5th at Abbey Park. Running for Vista will entitle you to a discounted entry fee of £8 for adults and £5 for concessions. Anyone can take part in the 5km run through the scenic park and raise money for Vista! Enter online by visiting www.bigfunrun.com or alternatively contact the Fundraising team.

Challenge yourself to make a difference for Vista!

Want to visit new countries, experience different cultures and improve your fitness whilst raising vital funds for Vista? There are over 100 challenges to choose from including trekking the Great Wall of China, Everest Base Camp or the Rajasthan Tiger Challenge. Popular Challenges include:

KilimanjaroAt 5895m, Mt. Kilimanjaro is one of the largest volcanoes ever to break through the Earth’s crust. Your challenge is to reach its summit. You’ve seen the celebrities do it, its now your turn. Three Peaks Challenge Your Three Peaks Challenge takes on the highest mountains in Scotland, England and Wales all within 24 hours. The trek covers 40kms and involves 2984m of ascent and descent.

London to Paris bikeGet your adrenaline pumping on this bike ride from the bustling city of London to the foot of the Eiffel Tower in Paris. This challenge pushes your stamina as you journey through the beautiful French countryside.

Can you do it? Have a look at www.charitychallenge.com at the challenge you would like to do in aid of Vista.

If you would like a fundraising pack, are interested in getting involved with any fundraising activities for Vista or would like to run your own event, please contact Vista’s fundraising team today on 0116 249 8801 or via e-mail at [email protected]


QUINN CONSTRUCTIONEXPANDS BUSINESS

L eicestershire-based family company, Quinn Construction, have

embarked upon an exciting expansion, furthering their name across the city and county for first-class building services.

Owned by Company Director, Lee Quinn, the construction firm specialises in the renovation of houses, alongside, but not limited to, general domestic services such as plumbing, plastering and electrical work.

Quinn, who works with his brother who has shares in the firm, is clearly proud of his workforce and his company’s growing reputation.

“We have a reliable, enthusiastic and skilled contracted workforce, which is essential when working within this industry. We have set high standards, which we guarantee to stick to. We believe in attention to detail and a dedication to the customers’ needs and wishes.”

Away from the office and building site, Lee is passionate about his hometown and has illustrated this through investing time and funds in to the community.

“I’m a big Leicester sports fan. We have a company executive box at the Walkers Stadium, for entertaining clients. I was keen to show our support for the club, Nigel Pearson and the lads and I’m delighted to have Quinn Construction associated with Leicester City Football Club.”

In addition, Lee is working with former Leicester City Captain, Steve Walsh, to give tickets away to Leicestershire charity, Vista, an organisation very close to his heart.

“My granddad is blind and he has been looked after extremely well, so I wanted to give something back to Vista as a thank you, so that people can experience that unique atmosphere of the Walkers Stadium. I knew that Walshy was working with them, so it made perfect sense to link the two things together.”

There is little doubt that with over six years experience within the building trade and an astute awareness of his role within the community, Lee Quinn has a bright future ahead of him.

For more information on Quinn Construction visit www.qcll.co.uk, or call 07564 952 084, seven days a week, for a FREE quotation for housing renovation and general domestic building services.

See page 24 for Quinn Construction’s sponsorship of Steve Walsh’s exclusive blog with www.soarmagazine.co.uk


Words by Jon Reeves

the soarpointwith Geordan Murphy

4�

Jon Reeves: So Geordan, you must be delighted with the victory over Saracens and sealing back to back titles? Geordan Murphy: It was pretty tough. It was a physical game. I think it was a good standard of rugby played and we are delighted to get the win. I think it is tough for any team to win the Guinness Premiership. For a lot of teams, their cup final is against Leicester.

We have been involved in some incredibly tough games this year and we have won the majority of them. Games like that through the season are great for us when it comes to final time.

JR: And what a game. Many fans are calling it the best ever Premiership final?GM: We started to turn the screw a little bit in the second half and were probably the better side but we kicked a little bit too much and tried to kill the game a bit too early. We probably should have kept playing and we let them back into the game. They had their backs up and after a couple of big penalties for them we found ourselves behind with four minutes to go.

Four minutes is a long time in rugby, as it proved. We said we didn’t need to panic, to get up there and get the

soarpointAfter 1� years at Leicester Tigers, club captain, Geordan Murphy, has well and truly written his name into Welford Road folklore. The

Irish international has won a whole host of top class honours, including back to back Guinness Premiership titles after this season’s dramatic ��-2� victory over Saracens and two Heineken Cups.

The hugely talented full-back has also played with some of the greats of modern day rugby for club and country. Having the hunger, ability and consistency to play at such a high level for well over a decade is testament to Murphy’s longevity and great sporting pedigree…

ball. Floody (Toby Flood) put a great kick in and Scotty (Scott Hamilton) has shown his great athleticism to get to it and win the kick-off. He was smart enough to play Danny (Dan Hipkiss) in as well. It was great play by everyone involved and I think you are happy when you see someone like Danny coming off the bench.

JR: Have you been pleased with your own form this season?

GM: It’s been a difficult season for me with injury. I got back for the start of the season after a double hernia repair having spent most of pre-season injured. Then, six games in, I dislocated my shoulder and had a few months on the sidelines. It was a frustrating first half of the year just watching the guys.

JR: Quite a few established players are leaving the club. Do you think it’s going to be a summer of transition at the club? GM: Traditionally we’ve lost guys in the summer and always got new faces in. I think we lost six or seven guys last year, guys I was friendly with, and it will be no different this year. Such is the nature of the game, you’re always going to lose players and we’ve lost some to other clubs and one or two to retirement. For example, Lewis Moody has been here for 14 years. He is a fantastic senior player and he will be missed. That’s the way it is and it is up to some of the younger guys, they have to fill those big shoes. We have some real talent and some of the best players in England.

JR: Ben Youngs has just been named as the Guinness Premiership Young Player of the Year. There seems to be a good crop of younger players breaking through?

Photo: Tiger Images


GM: Ben Youngs, Billy Twelvetrees, Dan Cole, they’re all young guys. Anthony Allen’s had a fantastic season for us too and he’s in his early twenties. The core of the side is very young, but we’ve got a few old heads - in my case dragging these youngsters down! On the whole the future’s bright, they have plenty of enthusiasm and they’re quality players to boot.

JR: You’ve been at the club for over a decade. Playing for Tigers must mean a lot to you and being captain must be a great honour? GM: It’s a huge honour and something I never expected. I wasn’t sure how good a job I would do but I certainly enjoy it. I wouldn’t have stayed so long if I didn’t have such great ties here and I’ve really enjoyed my career. I’ve been lucky that we’ve been quite successful and I’ve been fortunate to play on such a big stage for so many years.

JR: How did signing for Leicester come about?

GM: I was 19 and playing for a small town team at home and my coach wrote a letter to Leicester asking if they’d take a look at me. I came and had a three week trial and got signed up to stay for three years. I’d obviously seen a lot of Leicester on TV at home and as a youngster. I never imagined myself playing in England as most of the teams I supported were Irish.

To get the chance to train with players that had just finished touring with the Lions in South Africa, like Martin Johnson, Eric Miller, Neil Back and Graham Rowntree - big names in world rugby - was an opportunity that I couldn’t miss. I never expected to be given a professional contract, I just thought I’d enjoy the three week trial.

JR: Was it quite intimidating coming in and training alongside those players or did they make you feel welcome? GM: It was pretty intimidating and I was probably very shy as well

so I didn’t speak to those guys much. They probably had too much on their plate to worry about a young Irishman and the squad was very big then. I think you’ve got to establish yourself as a squad member and then you get a bit of attention and get some chat out of the old heads.

JR: You’ve played in some great teams at Tigers. Who’s been the best player you’ve played with? GM: There are so many shapes and sizes in rugby that I think it’s difficult to name one good player. Who’s to say that a full-back is any better

�1

soarpointthan a forward? Having been here for 13 seasons I respect how hard the forwards work and they are a huge part of our success. I’ve played with some truly gifted backs too. I don’t like to single anyone out, there’s just too many to mention.

JR: You played alongside Cockers. Was it difficult getting used to him being your coach?GM: No, not really. I played with Cockers for a while and then he moved away, came back and came through the ranks. His record speaks for itself. You can say what you want about the man, but he’s done a good job for us and got us to finals. For an angry man he’s not too bad!

JR: What are your thoughts on playing for Ireland in the future? Is the next World Cup a major target?GM: I’m hoping to carry on and the World Cup is a huge carrot. I’d love to be involved in that. I’d like to try and stick around and keep myself in the picture. I think if I made that World Cup it might be the end of my international career and my swansong with Ireland. It

would be nice to finish at a World Cup.

JR: I guess there’s still that determination with the Ireland team to really make your mark on a World Cup?GM: Yeah, I think so after the last couple of World Cups. The first one I missed out on, I think we did quite well and we were a bit unlucky. In the last one it was a bit disappointing and I think we let ourselves down. As players we want to go there and put in a performance that reflects the passion we have for the shirt.

JR: Have you given much thought to what you’ll do when it’s time to hang up your boots? Maybe another crack at Gaelic football? GM: I’d love to have another go at Gaelic football. As a professional there are a lot of things you can’t do and if I ever got the opportunity to play again it’s definitely something I’d like to do. I’d love to ski as well, but unfortunately I’m not afforded that luxury at the moment because I’d probably break myself on the slopes knowing me!

Photos: Tiger Images

JR: Is coaching something that interests you? GM: I suppose it does but I haven’t really thought about it massively yet. I’ve been very lucky to have had some very good coaches and if they’ve passed on a bit of their knowledge then you never know.

JR: Finally Geordan, what does Leicester mean to you? GM: It’s a beautiful yet strange place because it’s kept me here for so long. Some of the countryside around the midlands is the nicest that you’ll find in the world. The people are very friendly and in rugby terms the fans are very, very passionate. I think sport is a huge thing for Leicester. There’s a huge amount of pride and passion in Leicestershire’s sporting prowess and that’s something you can buy into and feed from.

Soar Magazine would like to take the opportunity to congratulate Geordan and everyone connected with Leicester Tigers for their great achievement.


inpictures


On Tuesday April 27th, Leicester singer-songwriter, Jersey Budd recorded the terrace anthem, ‘When You’re Smiling’, with the Leicester City squad, former players Steve Walsh and Alan Birchenall MBE, and Foxes fanatic Lee Jobber, ahead of their final league game.

Jersey then presented the recording to City Chairman, Milan Mandaric, before singing at half-time in the Cardiff play-off game. He then found time to score a penalty past former Foxes keeper, Kevin Poole.

For more information on Jersey Budd visit www.jerseybudd.com

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