While he is still very much in the midst of his on field career, James Craig is already keeping one eye on the future and a possible ongoing career in rugby.
The second row has been doubling up on training sessions in recent months, both readying himself for a return to action against Saracens last weekend and also helping to prepare Saints of the future by assisting the strength and conditioning department at Franklin’s Gardens.
“At the moment I’m doing a masters degree in strength and conditioning, so I’ve been doing a bit of work with Luke Kelly (Head of Academy S&C) and the Academy,” he told the official Saints podcast. “It’s been good for me to have that experience of coaching people to lifts the weights rather than being coached myself.
“Coaching is something I’m definitely interested in, whether it’s from a rugby perspective or strength and conditioning.”
The 27-year-old admits himself that he has struggled with injury during his time in black, green and gold, but hopes that his increased interest in physical preparation can bear fruit in the years to come.
“My own personal experiences in the game certainly led me down the strength and conditioning path to start with. Given my history, I’ve looked at a lot of ways to try and improve myself physically and make sure I don’t pick up those injuries.”
Craig starts this evening’s game with Scarlets in the second row and you can join him at the game by booking tickets in the front row! Kick off is at 7:45pm – book online HERE
You can hear more from James Craig, as well as Dorian West, Kieran Brookes and Michael Paterson, in this week’s official Saints podcast. Download, stream or subscribe for FREE by CLICKING HERE
