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Jamie Baguley interview

Jamie Baguley interview

STEPHEN HOWARD16 Oct 2017 - 12:07
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Heys striker talks about his career and his hopes for the future

The question often get asked is who is the oldest, youngest of you, Mark & Chris?

Well, what many people don’t realise is I have another brother - Michael who is the oldest. He has two left feet though! It’s me next at 32, Mark is 31 and Chris is 30. So, as you can imagine, my Mum and Dad had a good time!!!

You have all made your mark as footballers. Your Dad was a Pro. Can you tell us about his career and his influence on you as a player?

My Dad played for Wigan and semi pro with Stalybridge and Ashton United whilst my uncle Phil played in Bolton’s first team so I think we as brothers got it from them!

As a schoolboy / youth who did you play for?

As a kid, I played for Deans Sports FC in Swinton and back in those days it was them and Barr Hill FC who were the big teams in Salford. My dad was my manager and we were very successful. I have very fond memories of those days.

You were at Manchester United for a time. When was that and at what level did you play, were there any notable players with you at that time?

I was at United from age 6 to 16, 10 years in total. I loved every minute of it until they pied me when I ready for stepping up to the Youth team. I must say I had the best coaching ever and saw some great things which people can only dream of. I played with the likes of Darren Fletcher, Phil Bardsley, who remains a good friend, Kieran Richardson, Chris Eagles, David Jones and Tom Heaton too plus many more.

After leaving United I then moved to Stockport County aged 16-21 on a 5-year contract which was great.

You have played for some top non-league sides like Altrincham, FC United and Salford. Do you have any special stories/ memories of those times?

In Non-League I have played all over the show but my best years were at FC United. They are a great club with great fans and we won a lot of trophies.

At Altrincham, we got promoted into the National Conference and I scored a few that season. However, I'm at Heys now and enjoy it just as much, because I love footy!!!!

You were at Monton for a while before Heys and were often a thorn in our side. How did it come about you joining Heys and what swayed you to leave Monton?

I was at Monton just to tick over and enjoy footy again as travelling in the higher leagues had just become too much and stressful. Our Mark was also there and Rob Wrigley was Manager which also played a part.
Joffy then approached me, asking me to sign, saying Heys were going for the Counties and he wanted me to help him get there, so that's what I did.

Your first season saw Heys get to the Counties and win the treble? What memories do you have of the season?
The treble season was great. I had a good year, scoring 12 goals in 26 appearances. However, I was disappointed when in the last few months I picked up a calf strain and I missed out on a Final and a few League games, but I'd done the business prior to that ha!

How did you view Heys first season in the Counties?
Last season was okay, but this season I expect a lot better. I was happy to get into the League Team of the Year and I will be doing the same again this year, and the play offs is a must for us.
What are your hopes / targets both for you personally and for Heys this season and beyond?

Personally, I'm still a chunk but a lot fitter than last year and my ability and brain will help me through. I want to help the young kids develop and do that by being a leader both on and off the pitch. I'm a big character and I want to help Heys go places.

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