Life

Weekend Q&A: UTV's Ruth Gorman on the Six Nations, Mousetrap and a wee Hawaiian

Ruth Gorman is sports correspondent for UTV and is covering the Six Nations Rugby

UTV sports correspondent Ruth Gorman is a keen hockey player
UTV sports correspondent Ruth Gorman is a keen hockey player UTV sports correspondent Ruth Gorman is a keen hockey player

How do you unwind at the weekend?

The weekend is actually when I'm in my element because of all the sports, playing and commenting. I play hockey – this season in defence, although I can play any position – for the Owls team in Mallusk. I've really got into the game this year but we've had to curtail it. The Six Nations have been keeping me very busy. Normally I'd be at the matches but we haven't been able to as we're not in the players' bubble, so it's virtual press conferences. Then I do interviews from home. Ireland has been disappointing so far and Scotland has been the most entertaining to watch. I almost think Wales could win. I live in Co Down and like to go for a run by the sea, which is therapeutic.

What do you recall about weekends growing up?

From a young age, we had a family games night on Friday when we'd get out a board game. Those were really special, happy times. I was always so competitive at Cluedo or Monopoly and I loved Mousetrap. Now I relive that with my nephew Jonathan and my niece Hannah. My late mum Eileen played hockey too and came to all my matches. Ours was a Manchester United household and I'd paint my face and get the kit on. It was a big thing.

Friday night or Saturday night?

Depends if we've won at hockey when Saturday night can be depressing. Friday, with the weekend to look forward to and when I've spent night at Ravenhill reporting on Ulster Rugby. I can't wait to see friends again, even for a cup of tea.

Do you have a must-listen weekend radio show?

I used to work on Radio Ulster's prestigious Saturday Sport Sound where producer Brian Johnson gave me my first opportunity on radio. I still feel part of that family. Five Live too.

Must-watch weekend TV show/box set?

Normally live sport but I do like Would I lie to You? And please don't judge me, but Married at First Sight which is full of craziness.

Favourite eatery – or is it a takeaway?

The Plough in Hillsborough is great but it seems so long ago when you could go out for a meal. My takeaway would have to be a pizza, a wee Hawaiian from Piccola Pizzeria in Bangor.

Is Sunday still special?

Yes, it's always been a family day when we make time for each other. We'd go for a big walk if I'm not away working and I love making a Sunday roast.

How do you feel on Sunday night about Monday morning?

I would gear myself up for Monday morning as we look ahead to the week. A lot of Sunday nights I watch golf which is often played in America. I've had some great times watching our Major champions Rory McIlroy and Graeme McDowell. Recently I watched the Superbowl too. It was on until 3am so I gave up at half time to get a few hours' sleep.