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I am very pleased to have had the opportunity to interview Rovers hero Ben Cockayne's dad for Mortonstalker.
Hi Paul and thank you for agreeing to take part in this interview.
Firstly, can you tell us something about yourself and the Cockayne family.
The Cockayne family - my name’s Paul and Ben’s mum is Helen, he has a sister Laura who is 13. I originate from Sheffield where most of my family still live and Helen was born and brought up in Alltofts, Wakefield.
Obviously your roots are in West and South Yorkshire, how does it feel having a son playing for the mighty Hull Kingston Rovers?
I wouldn't mind who he was playing for really I've always supported him wherever he played but it makes it a little bit special to know he's playing for a club with such a great history and hopefully a great future and to know he has been part of that history.
Is rugby league a big thing in your family?
Helen's father and brother are massive Cas fans and have taken Ben along since he was about 5 or 6. I never really followed one team but like to keep an eye on Yorkshire based teams. But obviously that’s all changed now and I am more interested in who has lost and are struggling and who Rovers are capable of beating.
Do any of the family come along to watch Ben playing for Rovers?
Yes me and his Mum don't miss many games home or away, Ben's girlfriend comes along too. His Granddad and Uncle get along as well so long as the games don't clash with Cas games. So if you see a couple off Cas shirts down at Craven park that could be them.
He’s a bit of a nutter your lad, and we love him for it, does he take after you?
No, his Mum but don't tell her I said that!
Ben’s been suggested as a future GB international, how would that make you feel?
I think anyone would feel proud to see their child play at that level but by Ben's own admission he's still a long way to go and there are a lot of good players out there who would love the opportunity to do just the same, but he's achieved one ambition so why not.
Promotion and relegation, give us your view please.
Personally I'm for it. I think it makes good competition and let's face it if it was scrapped what have the lower divisions to play for? They would just become feeder clubs for Super League. However, I do think Super League should be expanded to 14 clubs and return to the home and away fixture format making it a level playing field .
So, we know Ben grew up a big Cas fan, killer question, Rovers to stay in Super League (including your Ben) or Cas to get promotion? Which would be bigger?
Me personally would have to say Cas - no just kidding got to be Rovers! As I said its Ben's Granddad and Uncle that follow Cas although I would like to see them back in Super League.
What has been your proudest moment in Ben’s life to date?
There has been a couple, when he passed out from his basic training in the army we travelled to see his passing out parade, that brought a lump to my throat although it went down hill after that what with him having to go to Iraq so I was glad when they told him they no longer required his services and asked him to leave.
But from a rugby point of view it would have to be the Grand Final last season, there was definitely tears that day knowing he had achieved his dream to play Super League .
Warrington challenge cup last year is up there and lets not forget Wakefield at home, Wigan away, Leeds at home and Huddersfield away.
Final question, the Rovers fans have really taken Ben to their hearts and think of him as one of our own, he is clearly enjoying himself at the moment, will you come over and celebrate his testimonial with us in 9 years time?!!
Without a doubt we'll be there and hopefully enjoying a few more celebrations between now and then. On the note of the fans I would just like to say how pleased we are that so many of you have taken to Ben and welcomed him, I know he appreciates it as he shows all too often usually at the mascots expense! He has his critics, and I'm probably the worst, but I think he will keep improving and wont let you the fans down.
Thank you very much Paul, and on behalf of the Rovers fans, our very best wishes to you and your family and long may your association with Rovers continue through Ben.
