James Roche

What position do you play in?

Centre back.

Did you always play in that position?

I didn’t always play there; I used to play midfield.

What age were you when you joined the club?

I started in the Academy up in the Postal Grounds when I was four.

Who was your first manager?

My first manager was William Brady.

How would you describe yourself as a player?

I am an aggressive defender that likes to defend, play with passion and good on the ball.

Playing Under 20s is a big step up for you this year.

How do you think you will do? I think I will be well able for Under 20s. It is a big step-up from Under 17s but I am looking forward to the season ahead.

How many times a week do you train at Roadstone?

I have three team sessions a week, on Monday, Wednesday and Friday and train every morning with TY and three gym classes a week.

How do you get to Roadstone and back home?

My mam and dad give me lifts to and from training which I am very grateful for.

You have been following Rovers since childhood.

Can you remember your first game? My first ever game that I could remember would probably be when we won the league in UCD in 2011.

Do you miss out on games at the stadium because you are training yourself?

I can make it to the games at the stadium but miss out on all of the away games as we train on a Friday night.

Who is your favourite Rovers player?

My favourite Rovers player would be Gary Twigg.

Who is your favourite non-Rovers player?

Scott Brown.

This year you are part of the Rovers/Ashfield College TY Programme. How are you getting on there?

I am really enjoying the TY course. It is great fun and really beneficial. It has not only made me a better player but also a better person. Steven (Gray) and Joe (Adibekov) are great coaches and have helped me a lot as also have the S&C coaches with my gym work.

What do you do to chill out when not playing or training?

I like to watch football on TV or go out with my friends.

How many appearances have you made to date for Ireland at underage level?

I have twenty-two appearances with Ireland at underage level with 15s, 16s and 17s.

What would you like to be if you don’t become a full time footballer?

I would like to be a detective.