PRH recently caught up with the extremely fit England Goalkeeper Ian Morrison to ask what’s it like to be one of only 2 English Players in the Spanish professional leagues and still under the age of 21. This is what he had to say;
PRH > “How did you get into Roller Hockey?”
IM> ” I started playing in 1996 when I was asked by my best friend, Daniel Harris, to try hockey on skates.”
PRH> “What teams have you played for?”
IM> “I’ve played for two Clubs, Letchworth and Vic in Spain and soon I will be joining Geieg. Plus of course England!”
PRH > “What’s it like to play in Spain?”
IM> “The Spanish standard is very high. Roller Hockey is played in many schools and thousands of clubs with large memberships, with the basics being learnt by players before they are seven. ”
PRH > “What is the main difference between playing in Spain and England?”
IM> “The Spanish game is a lot faster and a lot more serious, with highly technical players that prepare for a specific match days before. Leagues at most levels are sponsored, less at lower levels, but every Club has a support base.”
PRH> “Tell us about your club….”
IM> ” The last two seasons I played for Club Pati Vic, which is about 65km north of Barcelona and lived in students accommodation about 50 metres from the rink. This season I have transferred to Geieg in Girona, Spanish Division One. I’m not sure where I’ll be living yet, but a bit of uncertainty and excitement is all part of the experience of playing abroad.”
PRH> “How difficult is living away from home?”
IM> “At the beginning it is very lonely and you get home sick by the third day away. But if you can stay out there for more than six months it gets easier. You must be 100% committed and in the long run it is an experience not to be missed. Playing in front of 7,000 people, especially the roar when the home team scores, is phenomenal!”
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Reporter: Kos Galtos
