Brad Tarbuck : H&W man chats to SFS!

In this edition we talk to Havant and Waterlooville player Brad Tarbuck about his time at Portsmouth FC, being out on loan and what it was like like being promoted to the national league south. This is what he had to say...

Sam: Could you summarise your career so far?

Brad: To summarise my career I would start with my long and enjoyable 11 years at Portsmouth. I went through the academy to then earning a scholar and then finally a 1 year pro. I made my first official appearance in the league cup against Plymouth. I then made another 2 appearances in the league which were both great experiences. I was released by Portsmouth in 2014 and went on to join Dorchester and was there for 1 season. I then joined Havant and Waterlooville my current club and earned 2 promotions and unfortunately relegated from the national league last season. This is my 4th season with Havant and Waterlooville.

Sam: What has it been like playing full back/wing back at a good level for so long, as wing backs are perceived to have to be very fit?

Brad: I really enjoyed playing wing back simply because I felt confident going forward but also my pace would help me out defending as well. As time went on my defending improved which also allowed me to play full back at times.

Sam: Starting off with Portsmouth FC, you can boast that you have played in league 2. Describe your emotions when you had your first taste of football at that level?

Brad: The very first appearance I made I was very nervous and I was only a young pro and coming into that sort of environment at that age will always be nerve-wracking but also very excited so a mix of both which is always good.

Sam: You then had 2 loans for both Dartford FC and Dorchester, do you feel it is key for players at any age to go out and ply their trade in a league or two below?

Brad: I think going out on loan was the best thing I did. I was able to get a taste of men’s football which I feel is crucial when your young. It also helped me when I left Portsmouth I knew what was expected at that level. So yes I think it is key to get out on loan if your not getting games because game time is the most important no matter what level.

Sam: After the loans we end up at Havant and Waterlooville where you have been since the 16/17 season, what’s made you stay at H&W for the amount of time you have?

Brad: I think it’s mainly down to how professional the club is. They look after all the players and staff really well can’t say a bad word about the club. Another reason will be the success we’ve had in the last few years it’s always a motivation to stay at a club when you know where this club can go.

Sam: Now we have asked Alfie (Rutherford) the same question, is there any funny stories you would be able to tell from the squads you have been?

Brad: To be honest I can’t pin point any really funny stories to share but I’ll never forget Mike carter at the end of both promotion seasons wearing the scarf on his head and one goalie glove drinking out of the trophy.

Sam: The quality within the squads you have played with have been great as well, being promoted to the national league. Despite the relegation what could you say about your time at that level?

Brad: I thoroughly enjoyed playing in the national another reason why I’m still at havant because I know we can get back there with the squad we’ve got this year. I enjoyed everything about it the different grounds, staying over nights and journeys with the squad was very good. The level of football really stood out as well.

Sam: With time on your side as well being aged 24, what aspirations do you have in mind. Is it to be with H&W for as long as possible?

Brad: I’ve always answered this question the same, I’ve always said I just want to play as high as possible and making sure I’m enjoying it still and I’m happy which I am at havant l. I know where this club can go so If this club can go on a journey like I believe it can I’ll be more then happy to stay here as long as possible.

Sam: How does Brad Tarbuck want to be remembered not just as a footballer but as a man?

Brad: Probably that I’m always up for a laugh and will get on with everyone.

Thank you to Brad answering our questions and we hope he can get promoted again with Havant this season!