"PACKING THE WINNING PUNCH" SERIES: ALEX GOODE

From his roots in Cambridge to a storied career with Saracens and England, Alex has become synonymous with top-tier rugby excellence. With 352 caps for Saracens, 21 international appearances, and a trophy cabinet that includes six English Premiership titles, three Champions Cups, and a Grand Slam with England, Alex’s career is a testament to dedication, skill, and resilience.

In our exclusive Q&A, Alex shares his journey through the highs and lows of his impressive career. He delves into the evolution of the game and training, recounts his standout moments both on and off the field, and offers a glimpse into how he’s mentored the next generation of players. Discover the secrets behind his longevity and consistency, and learn how he's adapted his playing style to stay at the top of his game.

We also explore his personal interests, future plans, and the impact of Saracens’ strong team culture on his growth and career. Whether you’re a rugby aficionado or simply curious about the life of a sports icon, this interview is sure to inspire and captivate.

What do you think has been the key to your longevity and consistency at Saracens, maintaining top performance for such a long time? 

I think I've been relatively lucky with injuries, but ultimately I love the game of Rugby, I'm extremely competitive and I've always had a bit of a chip on my shoulder to prove doubters wrong. 

How has the game and training evolved since you first started, and how have you adapted your playing style over the years? 

I think the game and training has become more data driven and scientific in a good way. When I started as an example pre season was about marine camps, climbing mountains with backpacks on or running round lakes for hours. Nothing that replicates a game, but now we know how far, how many sprints, acceleration are in the toughest games so we can replicate that in training. On adaption I'd say my game hasn't actually changed too much, I've just tried to constantly improve all areas so I don't get left behind. 

What are the standout moments in your career at Saracens, both on and off the field? 

I think on the field winning the Premiership in 2011 was incredibly special and built a platform for the success after. We were such a tight group and the feeling when the final whistle went having defended our line for 30 phases was just unbelievable. Off the field at Saracens we have had some unreal team bonding trips, but if I had to say one, I would say going to Miami in 2011 was ridiculous then winning after that proved it worked! 

How has your role within the team evolved over the years, especially now that you are the most experienced player? 

I think from a relatively young age I had to mature on the field to lead the backfield and I took that as my role to make sure as a unit we knew our roles inside out. Then from there as you play more and more naturally people start to listen to you so you try to add to the group more. Over the last 5/6 years I've enjoy helping the academy lads develop and doing more with the coaches. 

Saracens are known for their strong team culture. How has that culture shaped your career and personal growth? 

Hard to make this a short answer as my personal growth and development has hugely been influenced by Saracens. It's all I've ever known and I've seen myself go from a very immature young boy to a dad and hopefully someone that the young lads can always feel comfortable speaking to for advice. How much I've matured might be debated though haha. 

What was the most challenging period in your career, and how did you overcome it? 

I think anytime you're not picked for a club or country it's tough if you feel you should be. It's our job and when that's taken away from you it's really hard, in my case I had a tough period from 2016-19. I had some great people In my corner who I kept talking with and they really helped me. I also made sure I focused on the things I could control. 

How would you describe your rugby philosophy, and how has it influenced your approach and way you play the game? 

I think I just enjoy having the ball as much as possible because then you can influence proceedings more. So I make myself as available as possible in order to get the ball, whether through positioning, understanding or fitness to get those opportunities. 

Who are some of the young players at Saracens you’re excited about, and what advice do you give them? 

Tobias Elliot and Charlie Bracken could both have big years. They are very professional and have a real hunger to improve and learn. My advice is always - enjoy it and it will never feel like a chore. The best players work the hardest. 

What are your plans once you decide to hang up your boots? Do you see yourself coaching in the professional environment? 

Still working on my transition plan, it's certainly what gives me the most anxiety and worry in life. I have been busy and active working with companies so let's see where I get to in the next 9 months. I do not have any plans to coach, no. 

Who were your mentors when you were starting out, and how impactful has their contribution on your career? 

The biggest mentor to me when I was 20 yrs old was Richard hill. He made me look at the game different particularly how I approached and prepared for games and training weeks. He made me aim higher ultimately. 

What were your favourite moments in an England jersey? 

I guess being part of a grand slam winning England Squad was pretty special but the biggest highlight was beating the All blacks at Twickenham in 2012. Everyone had written us off and the atmosphere that day was unbelievable. 

What are some of your interests and passions outside of rugby? 

My family is my biggest interest I guess in a cheese way, but I love seeing my son develop and grow. Away from that I love (when time) getting on the golf course and also currently trying to work out my next step after rugby. 

It’s the dawn of a new era at Saracens, and a lot of new faces, what are the things on and off the field you have done, to help galvanise and strengthen the new relationships in the team?

I don't think there is anything new or special, it's just about spending as much time together doing things we like. In my experience the more organic and natural the building of relationships the stronger they are. So maximising our time together and everyone trying to give more than they take should hopefully put us in a great place. 

Are there any specific challenges or travels you’d like to do, after your rugby career? 

Very into the TV series race across the world and I think that would be not only a very tough challenge but an awesome experience.