Bibby: Doing what I love
- Jake Bibby discusses pre-season and his targets for the 2021 campaign.
- Betfred Super League season to begin on 25th March.
- Bibby: “I can’t put into words how grateful I am to be able to do what I love.”
Jake Bibby admits he is ‘grateful’ to have the normality of pre-season during lockdown.
The 24-year-old is pleased to be back at Robin Park Arena amongst the first team squad, with preparations underway for the 2021 season, which is set to begin on 25th March.
Bibby appreciates the position sporting athletes are in and understands how hard it is for others during this current time.
“When I don’t have a schedule to stick to, I go a bit stir crazy,” he said. I’m lucky to even have a job in lockdown, and it is kind of keeping me sane. I can’t put into words how grateful I am to be able to do what I love.”
The centre believes he has benefitted from a rest during the off-season and feels he has come back fitter than usual.
“I enjoyed the break, I feel like I’ve come back better than I normally would. We had time to relax, but everyone has come back ready for business. The last two weeks have been tough and we have been put through our paces.”
With one full season at Wigan under his belt, Bibby is happy with how he has fitted in within the squad at his hometown club.”
“All the excitement has settled down. I’ve got to know the lads really well after they welcomed me in, and I feel comfortable with them. The new lads have been great too, so they’re all amazing.
“There is a family feel, and when you spend a lot of time with each other, you need that. We have a good laugh too.”
Bibby says he will use the disappointment from last season’s Grand Final to his advantage in the forthcoming campaign.
“I’ve had so many nightmares about it, but you have to use it as a driving force. Hopefully we can build on last year, and I’ve always wanted to win a Grand Final, so that is a key factor.”
From a personal perspective, he is hoping to claim his place in the starting 13 and to repeat some of the try-saving tackles he produced throughout his debut season.
“Everyone has a role. There is a lot of competition and so I need to keep consistency and play well back-to-back. My goals are to earn my spot in the team and impress the coaches.
“I pride myself on my defence, and just doing my job for the team. I just try to put my body on the line, and it seems to have worked well. I buzz off stuff like that.”
