A tribute to James Roby – 400 games for St Helens
James Roby will reach an incredible milestone in captaining St Helens in his 400th game for the club on Friday.
The 32-year-old made his St Helens debut back in 2004 and has scored nearly 100 tries in the red vee.
He has made 37 international appearances as well, seven more Great Britain and 30 for England. He was revelation for the Lions at the 2017 Rugby League World Cup.
Roby was made skipper of his hometown club in the off-season, taking over from club stalwart Jon Wilkin.
And he says it was an absolute honour to be handed the captaincy by coach Justin Holbrook.
He said: “When I was asked to be captain I was over the moon and said yes straightaway.
“I have been here all my career and grew up watching the team. I am a St Helens lad and I will be in my 15th year, too. I am really proud to call myself the captain of St Helens.
“I don’t look at it as pressure. If anything, I know there will be a few more responsibilities, but the key is not to let it affect my game on the field. I am a laid-back character by nature but the icing on the cake would be to win some trophies as captain.
“I am privileged and honoured to do so and I am looking forward to the challenges that lie ahead.”
Roby has been a brilliant role model to youngsters of the game. He is a true professional and it’s hard not to like him, no matter which club you support.
Saints are looking good this year under Holbrook and Roby will be determined to pick up some silverware as skipper.