Paul, thanks
for answering some of these questions, firstly what is your full name name and nick name: Paul
Horatio Shepherd. Known as Shep, and unfortunatley Sheps by some. Greg B often calls me ‘Shep get back in your goal’
for some reason.
When did you first take up
Hockey?
That was at glorious Calday Grange Grammar School. I think it was the challenge of getting to the bag of wooden
sticks first to get the one with a grip that developed my thirst for competition. Everything since then has been a let down.
It was Geoff Poole who brought me to Neston, i still remember paying my subs with very small change one sunny afternoon. Not
that we were poor, my Dad just had loads of change and no shame.
What
positions have you played?
Most of them, all performed with great expectations and suitable disappointment.
What are you reading at the
moment?
I’m reading about canopy management in the vineyards of Napa Valley. I’m studying for my advanced
qualification in wines and spirits. If you need to know anything about wines, anything at all..use Google. Don’t ask
me.
What is your favourite film?
I like films with a compelling protagonist, with an obstacle for him to overcome, a nice narrative, with a beginning,
middle and end. Some friends become enemies, some enemies become friends etc..
I particularly enjoy the films of Hayao Miyazaki; Howl’s Moving Castle or Princess Mononoke are superb.
All time favourite – either Akria or Marley and Me.
Best player you have played
with or against?
Paul Sibley. If you don’t know you Paul Sibley is or you’re not Paul Sibley, well what’s the
point in living?
Top tip, for Hockey?
Arrive on time or get a 2nd job. But seriously, don’t turn up to training with the wrong attitude
then wonder why you played **** on Saturday.
What are you listening to,
music wise at the moment?
Is this where i list lots of bands so people think I’m hip and groovy? I won’t disappoint; I’m
listening to Journey’s eponymous album from 1975.
Best advice given to you?
It’s nice to be important, but it’s important to be nice.- Homeless guy 2004.
Who has been the biggest
influence on your Hockey?
Someone at Calday held me back quite a bit.
What next for NSWHC?
I’d like to start enjoying the playing part of playing hockey again. It’s been a while since
i enjoyed playing a league game for NSWHC.
Who would you have on your
side, who is a present member of NSWHC in a full kicking scrapping fight and why?
I’d invite Eddie Byrnes along to come up with some ideas for tactics to take into the fight, then by the
time he has things finalised the other guys will be tucked up in bed.
Where do you Splash the Cash?
(What shops do you spend your Money?)
I like to hit the Red Lion in Parkgate and drink the bar dry of Country Perry. I’m not trying to sound
all cool and hardcore here..it’s been done. Didn’t take long either, that just the kind of lads we are here!
What was the best day of
your life?
When i hit that 6 against a real cricket bowler, from the cricket team! Walking onto the pitch with ‘Freddy
Mercury singing BARCELONAAAAA in the background. Memorable to say the least.
Favourite Food
Homemade lasagne or a medium-rare steak. If such foods are unavailable then a packet of Prawn Cocktail Seabrooks
or a Cadbury’s Wispa will keep me more than happy.
Favourite Drink
Country Perry of course. Why do you ask? I think its your round Tony! Get there quick before it runs out.
Your ideal weekend?
Not letting in six goals.
Thanks Paul Horatio, if I can call you
that, and have a great season on the new Astro.
