Roar midfielder blending fashion with football

New Brisbane Roar midfielder Jacob Pepper opens up about his life away from football and how he spends his spare time in the fashion world.

Tell us a bit about your passion for fashion?

  • “It’s something I got into a few years back and it’s been about a year and a half since I opened my first flagship What is Art store. It gives me an interest outside of football and keeps my mind off the game when things are a bit tough.”

Have you always had that passion?

  • “I started off being the main designer but now it’s a bit too much for me so I get a few of my mates who work for some big companies to do some stuff for me. I have my brother working in the Newcastle store. He’s been a big help, at times it’s tough juggling a few things but I’ve got good support around to keep things going along.”

You’ve settled in well at the club, who are your closest mates in the squad?

  • “I have to say the little car trio – blokes like Corey Brown, Daniel Bowles and Jamie Maclaren – they like to stick together and have a car pool to training happening.”

Who’s going to get tossed out of the carpool for you then?

  • “I think Luke [DeVere] or Jamie [Maclaren], I am doing my best to take their spot by shouting as many coffees as possible at the moment!”

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You’re playing in our #8 this season, what is your favourite number?

  • “Number 8 is my favourite number actually! It’s my birthday so I’ve always played in it and it’s good to be back in it.”

What’s the best bit about Brisbane so far?

  • “The weather for sure!”

Funniest teammate?

  • “Corey Brown. I’m only starting to get to know him but he’s very cheeky in the change rooms.”

Can you cook?

  • “I can, and I’m going to have to whip a few things up for Rowlesy [young defender Kye Rowles] being my new roommate.”

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What’s your kitchen speciality?

  • “Chicken and veg. Just protein. I love crumbed, but a lack of time means it’s roasted.”

What’s your dream car and what are you driving at the moment?

  • “Range Rover Autobiography but I’m driving a Mazda 6 at the moment. The dream’s still a long way away.”

What do you know about the Brisbane Roar?

  • “If you look at the history, it’s a very successful club so I’m looking forward to putting the shirt on for the first time. I’ll give 110% for the team and the club, I can’t wait for the season to kick-off.”

Do you enjoy playing at Suncorp Stadium?

  • “It depends if I’ve got my running boots on. It’s a fast pitch and it’s very hot up here but I can’t wait to make it a fortress with the boys again this season.”