The Clevedon Spotlight talks with Jack
here is a saying that Jack likes “To accomplish great things, you must not only act, but also dream, Not only plan, but also believe.”
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This plaque hangs up high in his lounge, so he looks at this every day.
I suppose this is why his greatest role model is ‘Mohammed Ali’.
Q. Who do you most look up to?
My Dad had met ‘Ali’ at a book signing in Bristol a long time ago. I would have loved to have met him in his heyday!
I would literally look up to my Grandad, being 6’5” this wasn’t difcult when I was a boy. He never got to see me play for Birmingham, as he passed away in 2006. Every time I play a match, for England especially, and the whistle blows to start the match, I touch the top bar with both hands to acknowledge him. I’ve always played Football since I was 6. Annoying my parents kicking the football against the garage door, if there was no-one to play against!
Q. When did you decide that you wanted to be a goal keeper?
I was an outeld player, but after getting beat so much, I ended up in goal, and stayed there!
Spotlight on Sport - page 15
You must work hard, set a target and go for it, follow your dreams, because they can come true if you try hard enough.
Being in the right place at the right time! I chose Birmingham because they gave me a chance and believed in me, so I was happy to take that opportunity with both hands! It was also conveniently off the M5 for my Dad and Mum to get me there. Living away from home at the age of 14 was hard, but it paid off. I stayed with a great family near the training ground, and had to grow up quick, getting on trains from A to B on my own.
Q. What memories do you have of early life in Clevedon?
My school was Clevedon Community School, I had a great time there. I loved ALL sport, especially Rugby and Cricket. Deciding between Football and
Q. What sort of challenges have you had to overcome to get to where you are today?
My challenges are to beat the Man in front of you, if you can’t get past him, you can’t be the best, can you?
Q. What advice would you give to people wishing to follow in your footsteps and play professionally?
Butland
about memories of early life in Clevedon and the challenges of playing as a top premiership and international goal keeper
Rugby at the age of 14 was an extremely difcult one for me. But school sports wasn’t everything, I also had great teachers and great school mates, who I still see a lot of. I still go into the school, as my brother Harry is still there, but leaves next week for a Rugby Academy.
Going on holiday with my girlfriend Steph, spending time with my family and friends.
Q. What has been your favourite holiday?
Dubai, great people, good weather, and fabulous food. Recent holiday is Thailand which has been absolutely amazing. I also love Thai food.
Q. What would you choose to be if you weren’t a goalie?
If I wasn’t a goalie - I would have played Rugby without a doubt! To stop playing Rugby at 14 was so difcult!
Q. What is the best advice you have been given?
Work hard and enjoy yourself, love what you do and enjoy life!
See page 14 for your chance to
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