Getting To Know You: Baz Gascoyne - Eagles Chaplain

06/05/2020

In the latest 'Getting To Know You', Eagles Chaplain Baz Gascoyne is under the spotlight as he tells us more about his role with the club, how he got involved and his favourite memories. 

Role at the club and what it entails:

My role at the club is Club Chaplain. My role is to provide confidential pastoral and spiritual care to staff, players and fans as needed, recognising that people have differing circumstances and needs.

The Chaplain is available for everyone, of any faith or none.

I regularly attend the training sessions and try to attend as many games as possible. 

I am also there to do Children’s Blessings/Dedication Services, Weddings & Funerals.

We say we try to provide a listening ear, encouraging word and a supportive act in all that we try to do. 

When did you become involved:

I first met Tubbs and ex-Club Director Paul Clarke with Chris Booth (now Cory Aston's father-in-law) in 2011 I think to discuss whether they would be interested in having a Chaplain working with the first team & Scholarship.

After hearing Tubbs’ vision for the Club, players etc both Chris & I said we were in.

Favourite memory from the role: 

I used to play Rugby Union from the age of 11 - 18 back up in Darlington and was Club Captain for Mowden Park Colts. I remember for years watching Rugby League on TV with my grandparents and enjoying it but not really understanding it.

Since being involved with the Eagles I have fallen in love with the game and prefer watching it to union, due to watching the training sessions as well as the games.

Although I immensely love watching the games the highlight of working with the Eagles is when I have been able to support, help and encourage someone through a difficult time just by being there.

Favourite Eagles match you have been to: 

Difficult to answer as there is more than one. 

Most memorable was when we beat Featherstone Rovers 60-40 at Featherstone and Linda & I being told to ‘eff off by two old ladies who must have been their 80's when we celebrated our last try in the last 5 mins or so. So comical. It was like my Gran swearing at me!

Obviously the two Grand Final wins were good but then last year going to Wembley and seeing the boys being history makers by becoming the first team to win the 1895 Cup was special & seeing our loyal & faithful fans begin the party!

Job outside of Rugby League:

I head up with Linda a charity we started just under three years ago called 'South Yorkshire Chaplaincy & Listening Services' in which we provide trained Chaplains & Listeners for the business world.

We partner with organisations to support them in providing a culture and environment of holistic wellbeing. Check out www.sycls.co.uk for more information.