Jason Robinson, who reached the summit in both Rugby League and Rugby Union, came to the King's Hall in Ilkley on Tuesday 12 May, and Geoffrey Mogridge was in the audience to review for us.
Rugby superstar Jason Robinson retains the compact powerhouse build which made him one of the fastest players of all time.
Jason was nicknamed ‘Billy Whizz’ after a character in the Beano Comic. His electric acceleration and estimated 10.67 seconds per 100 metre capability, combined with an amazing ability to side-step without losing speed, were every defender’s nightmare.
The Leeds born sporting legend explained to an enthused Kings Hall audience that in Harehills and Hunslet, where he was raised, you had to see well and run fast to survive. Jason spoke eloquently and with disarming frankness of his tough early years.
The youngster dreaded weekends at home which he described as ‘chaos’. His stepfather’s booze soaked Saturday club nights invariably led to domestic violence afterwards. Eight-year-old Jason would jump onto his stepfather’s shoulders in a vain attempt to protect mum from his fists. Despite all she had to contend with, mum remained the steadfast breadwinner and rock of support.
Jason attended Park View middle/junior School (now Park View Academy) in Beeston. He showed little academic prowess but had a passion for sports.
All Jason wanted was to play for Leeds Rhinos, but they were were not interested in signing him at the time. His illustrious career took flight from 1991, at Wigan Warriors. He became a pivotal player and helped to fill the club’s trophy cabinet with silverware. Jason earned 302 appearances with the Warriors before switching codes to join Sale Sharks in 2000.
The then 26-year-old of Jamaican and Scottish heritage, made his England debut at Twickenham in February 2001. Two years later, his role in securing the World Cup for England became the stuff of legend.
Compere and interviewer, Dave Broadbent, asked Jason to share with the King’s Hall audience, his feelings on the night before the 2003 World Cup Final in Sydney. Jason revealed that a heated phone conversation with an intrusive local reporter had fired-up the burners for his iconic winning try.
Audience Q&As after the interval provided yet more insight into the great player and great man. Jason was asked what he would most like to be remembered for. His answer: ‘As someone who cared’.
The Jason Robinson Foundation mirrors its inspirational founder’s journey from disadvantaged beginnings to world renown. The foundation is currently delivering rugby and multi-sports programmes across 38 schools in under privileged areas. Jason’s active presence at sessions is guaranteed to motivate the kids and coaching staff.
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