Flash Back to Interview with Jermaine "Squaddie" Pinnock Jan 08.

Last Updated on Wednesday, 10 February 2010 05:04

R.C.    When did you start playing rugby and how has it affect your life?

J.P. 

I must first start off by saying that I was tricked into rugby both at the school boy and club level, however, I have no regrets. But in all seriousness, life as a rugby player has brought with it endurance and success. This I consider to be an invaluable contribution to my development as an individual. I started playing Rugby Union in September of the year 2000 for Calabar High School (the greatest school in the world) in Kingston, Jamaica. Three years later I was invited to join the Sharks Rugby Football Club and my acceptance to the invitation has since been mirrored by many achievements, enabling me to develop my skills and persona to compete on a semi-professional and national level.

R.C.    What are your high points and low points during your career?

J.P

Being selected to represent Jamaica against the West Yorkshire Police team in February was truly a blessing and is considered to be the highlight of my career so far. In addition, after being selected as a member of the Sharks rugby club, I was given the opportunity to contribute my youthful skills to club rugby and after going on as a substitute against the St. Catherine rugby team (RU) I scored my first try at the club level, (still attending high school). I have then been on the starting team of all club games, ha-ha. Another high point was leading the Calabar High School under 19 rugby team to victory in the School boy under 19; 7-a-side tournaments in 2004 (RU). Being selected as part of the first ever National RL team was pretty special.

The most unsatisfactory moments in my career would be leaving my team every summer to work over seas (the past 3 RL seasons). This could not have been avoided; I believe my absence may have contributed to games lost, as a lack of experience has been our down fall in a number of games. Most notable of these, are the last three RL Grand finals against the Vauxhall Vultures (2005 & 2006) and the JDF (2007). I believe the team possesses the ability to be on top, but fail to execute this when it really counts.

R.C.    What are your goals for the future? 

J.P.

I intend on playing out a full RL season with my team in 2008 and as such will continue working on different aspects of my playing capabilities such as improving my running technique, (I will copy to that of Robert and Chinno) and I will also improve my elusive techniques. My individual goals will contribute to the teams’ overall goals and success. This season I believe will see us bringing the trophy home to Duhaney Park.

R.C.    What is so special about being a Shark? 

J.P. 

Being a member of the club has been a wonderful experience and our standard as been set by our motto (“Passion through Pride”), it represents who we are and what others should aspire to do to be like us.  “Sharks to the world”!!!!!