SAM PYPER stars in our latest player profile!
Ace goalscorer Sam Pyper faced our interview panel recently during a break from his goal chase to catch Peter Shields at the top of the all time charts. Here’s what he had to say for himself.
When and where did you first play hockey?
P6 in Kilmaine Primary Bangor. I have a vivid memory of hitting Stephanie Galbraith square in the back from 6 yards. Sorry Stephanie.
Have you played for any other hockey clubs?
North Down Till I Die……… Come get us Netflix!
How long have you been at North Down?
I think it was from 15 or 16? I’m the big 40 this year so nearly 25 years.
Do you have any personal ambitions in hockey?
Just to play as long as I can like Geordie Harper!
What has been your best moment at North Down?
Won many cups, leagues and promotions, but scoring my 300th & 301st club goals against Civil Service at Stormont in the victorious cup final 2 years ago was pretty special.
Who has been your favourite player to play with at North Down and why?
Oh, so many but would have to mention Geordie Harper who I always admired for his longevity, Beanbag for our long standing friendship and being the best man to man marker in the club, Wallsy for just being an animal on the pitch and Paul Revill who was always on the same wave length.
What is your least favourite team to play against?
Everyone is answering ***** to this question. I love playing *****. Makes it sweeter to beat them and I love a feisty game. So least favourite would have to be Quins or the like. They are too nice (soft).
Who in your North Down team would you want, and who not, on your quiz team?
Would need Doctor Paul Beaney (bit of a chimp but he is very smart) on board. Mocky can stay at home as there is no place for 2 legends on the same team (hope Mocky reads this)
Do you follow a particular football team?
Sing it “Livvvverrrrpooool, Livvvverrrrpooool, Livvvverrrrpooool, Livvvverrrrpooool” #YNWA
What other sports are you interested in and do you play any other sports?
Golf, tennis I suppose, but much prefer team competition
What is your favourite personal sporting moment and a favourite all time sporting one?
As much as Q5 answer is right up there, the most exhilarating moment was Irish Schools in Dublin when we watched Ashton beat the other 2 teams in our group double figures courtesy of 2 international twins drag flicking their way to victory. Brian Davis dropped me in the previous game ‘saving me’ for Ashton. An angry young boy played out of his skin and I remember Mackers Senior scoring the winner as we beat them 2-1. Absolute scenes. Brian was the greatest coach I ever had and Mackers Senior could be added to Q6 outside of NDHC.
What is the best holiday you have ever had?
Great family hols last year at Salou
Where is your ideal holiday location?
I’m easy. Sun, beach, pool, beer.
What type of music do you like?
All sorts. Just bought myself a record player and vinyl is becoming an addiction. Massive Alabama 3 fan (some may need look them up). Best known for Sopranos theme tune but they have about 15 albums. Oh, and the lead singer did drugs in my bar. (drugs are for mugs)!
What is your favourite TV programme?
The League of Gentlemen
What is your favourite movie?
I’m a Marvel freak and during lockdown I’m watching them all in chronological order. Can’t decide a favourite. Move on
Have you a favourite book you have read again?
Only read on hols and its usually some crime thriller in the top 10 of WH Smiths
What is your favourite food and drink?
Love Indian or Thai, red wine and whiskey (serious hangovers though)
Full cream, semi-skimmed or skimmed milk?
The green one
If you could invite four people, living or dead, to a dinner party who would they be?
Jurgan Klopp, Rob Spragg (AKA Larry Love), Iron-Man (Robert needs to be his suit) & Jim Morrison.
What have you been doing to stay fit during the coronavirus break?
Stay fit would indicate that I was fit before lockdown…… anyways, bit of running and got some kettle bells for HITT sessions.
