Josh Kaine is a staple figure at Silsden AFC, having cemented himself as one of the first names of the team sheet at the heart of Danny Forrest‘s defence. At 27, he finds himself as one of the more senior members of the squad, and we thought we’d catch up Kaine to give us an insight into life as skipper at the Cobbydale Construction Stadium.
How long have you been at Silsden, and what’s persuaded you to stay on board?
I played in the Under 21‘s for a few years before going to Oxenhope to get some experience playing men’s football and returned back to Silsden 3 years ago. The lads and the management have been a key factor to me still being here and enjoying it. It’s a really well run club with great facilities and I hope for many more years playing here.
What does it mean to be captain, and what does your role entail?
It’s something I’m still growing into and learning all the time, I wouldn’t say it came natural to me at first but I love it and it’s something I’m proud of. I suppose it’s making sure I lead the team and respect the clubs values on and off the pitch. I’m one of the most experienced players in the squad so it’s important I use that experience to help the team, I like to think I’m good at getting my arm round a player when needed and try to bring a positive attitude to training and match days.
Can you see your long term future at the club?
Yeah I’d like to think so, I’m really enjoying my time here and as long as the club/management want me, I don’t see me going anywhere soon, unless of course Man United spiral down the leagues and Ole wants me partnering Phil Jones at the back.
You played an integral part of the title winning side of 2017/2018. What are your hopes for this current squad going forward, given there’s been a bit of change of personnel?
We had a fantastic team the year we won the league, it had a bit everything. The togetherness, ability and mental strength was unreal. The current team has similar characteristics and I really believe we have something good going for us, we certainly have the togetherness and ability to do well, we just need to be mentally stronger and not let one bad result send us into a rut as it has a few times this season.
What is it about the club you love?
I just love how well the club is run and the people involved. From the players, management, fans and committee, you see playing every week just how much it’s means to so many people and the community, it’s just a great club to play for.
What have you been up too this weekend just passed, with some rare time off?
Nothing as exciting as Arley Barnes who was probably at church again. But I’ve just bought a house so I was dragged around every sofa shop in the area!
