Better Never Stops: An Interview with Our Ambassador Sam Ward

The relentless reigning ethos of ‘Better Never Stops’ was first established as the guiding brand principle just three months into the launch of Castore and is still a key mantra to this day. Better Never Stops represents the belief that the finish line is ongoing and there is always progress to be made in all walks of life - whether that be work, rest or play. 

Our out of home Summer of Sport campaign that launched in June, pays homage to the amazing sports we’re lucky to be a part of - through creating emotionally charged and relatable content. 

Across all sporting sectors, we live in the belief that setbacks must be forgotten, success remains timeless and the strive for Better Never Stops.

Senior mens hockey player and ambassador Sam Ward epitomises our reigning ethos. Born as a natural goal scorer, Sam climbed from horrific eye injury to England’s biggest goal scoring threat at the Hockey World Cup. His serious eye injury he suffered during the 2019 FIH Olympic Qualifier left him with multiple facial fractures and the news he has left the sight in his left eye. Despite the  allegations that he had been forced to retire from his hockey career, Sam came back stronger and hungrier than ever before. Just two years later he was named as part of the Great British team that would soon come fifth at the Olympic Games in Tokyo. 

We caught up with Sam to learn more about his rise to success post injury and his advice on rising above setbacks. Read on to learn more… 

To begin, tell us a little bit about yourself - where did you first discover your passion for hockey?

I started playing hockey after my parents met playing in a mixed team, so hockey was in the family and I’ve always had a stick in hand from the day I can remember. I just love the thrill, excitement and danger element of it.

Can you tell us about your rise to success post injury?

The injury obviously was awful, major surgery and a sliced retina is never ideal, but it’s the day-in-day-out focus of small steps and just the grind to want to get back to where I was before.

Our Summer of Sport campaign encompasses rising above setbacks and performing without defeat across all sporting sectors. What is your advice for rising above setbacks and achieving your goals? What keeps you determined?

For me, wanting to be the best goal scorer I can be makes me want to rise above setbacks. The drive and relentless training to make sure I give myself the best chance of being the best I can be. What spurs me on most is the fact the I am in the fortunate position I am to represent my country, so I want to do everything I can to make my friends, family and Great Britain proud.

Who or what would you say is your biggest motivation?

My family, they’ve supported me through thick and thin and I want to do everything I can to repay them and make them proud.

What is the one moto you live by?

If at the end of the day you can look in the mirror and know you’ve done your best, you can always hold your head up high.

What do you want to achieve in the next 5 years?

I want to be an Olympic gold medalist and European champion.

What advice would you give to young professionals at the beginning of their hockey career? 

To enjoy every moment and embrace the challenges BUT most of all, have fun.