James Hill reflects on the defining year that changed everything - from becoming a father and getting married to finally establishing himself in the Premier League. The Bournemouth defender also discusses Marco Rose, Europe, the fans who backed him, and the pride of wearing the number five shirt.
James Hill has admitted he never lost belief that his chance would come at AFC Bournemouth, insisting his breakthrough Premier League campaign was built on years of patience, hard work and refusing to have any regrets.
The central defender sat down with AFCBTV for one of his most candid interviews yet, reflecting on a remarkable 12 months that has transformed both his career and personal life.
Away from football, Hill is preparing for perhaps the biggest moment of his life, with the birth of his first child just around the corner, having also married his partner Tara earlier this summer.
"It's a massive step in my life becoming a parent," Hill said.
"It's something I've always dreamed of... for that moment to almost be here, I can't wait. It's always on my mind every moment of the day."
With Bournemouth preparing for a historic first-ever European campaign, Hill, speaking from Cherries' pre-season training camp in Austria, admits balancing football with family life will be challenging, while paying tribute to the sacrifices made by his wife throughout his career.
"She's already made a lot of sacrifices for me," he said.
"She makes all these sacrifices so my dream can come true. Every day I never forget about that. She's such an important part of my life.
"When you go home to see your family, that's your time. Enjoy that moment and don't take those moments for granted because they are special moments."
The 24-year-old also revealed how impressed he has been by new head coach Marco Rose, praising the German's man-management after immediately putting family first.
"The first starting point was obviously I needed to speak to him about the due date of my child," Hill explained.
"He's been absolutely amazing. He spoke to me first about family first and looking after my family, so he devised a plan for me.
"In terms of player management he's been absolutely fantastic. He's spoken to everyone on an individual level, let us know his standards and you can really see that European experience that he has.
"We really want to work under him and we're really excited for what's to come."
Marco Rose - Wikimedia CommonsHaving spent several seasons waiting for a consistent opportunity, Hill finally established himself at the heart of Bournemouth's defence last season as the Cherries secured a historic Europa League qualification.
Rather than becoming frustrated during the difficult periods, Hill says he focused on making sure he would be ready whenever his chance arrived.
"It has been difficult since coming to the club because you're waiting on an opportunity and you don't know when it's going to arrive," he admitted.
"But I'm always ready to go when called upon".
James Hill in 2022 - Wikimedia Commons"It was always within me to go and achieve. I always kept believing that the opportunity would arise and if it did arise then I was there to take it.
"Every day it was about making sure that I'm ready to go so I don't have that regret.
"I do everything now so when the opportunity does arise, I don't miss that opportunity and I don't live with regrets."
The defender also paid tribute to Bournemouth supporters, describing last season's record-breaking campaign as unforgettable for everyone connected with the club.
"It was incredible not only for us as players, but for the fanbase and the community," Hill said.
"It just shows you the direction the club's travelling in.
Chris Radburn / Reuters"Every moment since I've come to the club, the opportunity to put on the shirt and waiting for an opportunity to come in and play, it is an honour.
"To achieve what we did last season was something really, really special. It's something to look forward to next season for us and for the fans as well because it's a journey that we want to do well in."
Looking ahead to Bournemouth's first European adventure, Hill believes the club should embrace the occasion rather than fear it.
"Why not dream big?" he said.
"Why not go and do well in these competitions and progress?
"It's obviously going to be difficult because the quality of these teams is phenomenal, but first and foremost we have to believe in ourselves.
"The way the club every season has achieved something really, really good and we break our own records... it's incredible to say we're playing Europa League next season."
The interview concluded with confirmation that Hill will wear Bournemouth's number five shirt this season, a squad number he views as a privilege.
"It's a massive squad number," he said.
"To be wearing that is honestly a massive honour for myself, to be wearing that shirt and to wear it with pride.
"I'm really excited to wear that next season and can't wait for it to get going."
