|Around the Academy:
What qualities are required of a groundsman?
You need to be a good communicator and listener because you are constantly talking to the coaches, players and the directors about their different needs.
Good organisational skills are also a must, you have to be able to plan ahead.
You also need to be able to solve plenty of problems and take responsibility in your work because so many people count on you getting it right.
What is the best thing about the job?
For me, it is getting told by the players and coaches, sportsmen you respect, that you have prepared a good pitch that not only looks good, but plays very well as well.
At Headingley, we play too many games during the winter. The pitch needs renovation, but with the Rhinos and Tykes playing every week, it is very difficult.
However, this presents another challenge for me to get the pitch up to scratch after a heavy battering.
What is the best advice you can give to a youngster who wants to become a groundsman?
Education plays a major part in life now so it is important you get the correct qualifications to help you succeed.
You need to be passionate, flexible and above all else, committed.