Alex Gray backs Bath for another big season
Former Bath Rugby player and TV personality Alex Gray returned to The Rec and spoke to Bath Voice about the club’s title chances, the planned stadium redevelopment and the special connection between the city and its rugby team.
How does it feel to be back at Bath Rugby?
AG: It’s fantastic. Do I have a little bit of itchy feet? Am I a little bit jealous of the guys out there? Yes, of course. But you can see what Bath Rugby is famous for, the fans and the atmosphere here at The Rec. It’s such an iconic place to play rugby. I think there were 14,000 people out there willing Bath on to win their first home game, so it’s an absolutely amazing atmosphere.
I literally just walked from Bath Spa station to my hotel and was reminded how beautiful this place is. A lot of good memories started flooding back.
What are your hopes for Bath this season?
AG: I think Bath have a good chance of going all the way. They’ve probably got, in my eyes, the best squad in the league. But rugby is a tough sport. All it takes is a couple of injuries to certain players. They’re also going to lose a lot of players to international duty because they’re such a good team. The question is whether they can keep that momentum going when guys get injured or have to go away with the internationals.
I think they’re going to be in contention for the semi-finals, if not the final, if they can keep some consistency in the squad. The city lives and breathes rugby, so if they can have a great season, it’s great for the whole area.
What would you say to someone who has never been to a Bath Rugby match?
AG: Come down and check it out. It’s not like this at every ground. This is one of the few places in the league where it’s a true rugby town. The atmosphere is amazing and the fans are great. It’s not a hostile place at all. It’s very family-friendly. Everyone is welcome, whatever shirt you’re wearing or whatever age demographic you fit into. There’s a place for you here as long as you enjoy your rugby.
What do you think about the plans to expand The Rec?
AG: I think it’s absolutely amazing. If there was one critique of this place, it’s that they’ve been sitting in temporary stands for far too long. The fact that’s getting changed is going to add a whole new dimension to the team and the city. It’s going to be fantastic.
I think it’s going to be one of the premier places to play in the league. It helps attract players and improve the fan experience. It’s already as good as it gets and it’s only going to get better.
What’s your strongest memory from your time at Bath?
AG: Obviously, you remember running out for your first game, but what I appreciate now is more the day-to-day experience of being around the guys every single day. It was a group of young men all pulling towards one goal, and it was such a great place to be. Everyone was such good friends.
One thing I miss massively since stepping away from sport is that community element, and the fans play a part in that as well. You feel like a city is behind you when you’re playing. Being around the guys every day is probably what I miss most.