Okay, here’s my blog post about the hooker position in rugby, written from my personal experience:
So, I’ve been trying out different positions on the rugby field lately, you know, just to see what clicks. And let me tell you, I finally gave hooker a shot, and wow, it was a whole different ball game – or, well, rugby game!
Getting Started
First off, I had to get my head around what a hooker actually does. I watched some videos, saw the pros, and thought that my build was appropriate. I’m not the tallest, but I’m pretty sturdy, which seemed to be important for the role.
The Scrum Action
The main part of the experience is in the scrum.
- Binding: I practiced binding with my props – the guys on either side of me. Getting that grip right is super important. It’s all about being tight and secure, like one big, unmovable unit.
- Hooking: When the scrum-half puts the ball in, that’s my cue! It’s all about timing. I had to use my foot to “hook” the ball back to our side. The first few times, I totally whiffed it. My legs were all over the place, and I felt like a newborn giraffe.
- Staying Low: My coach kept yelling, “Stay low!” It’s tough on the back and legs, but being low gives you leverage and power. I definitely felt the burn after a few scrums.
Lineouts – A Different Challenge
Lineouts were another part of playing hooker. Usually, the hooker throws the ball in.I went into the lineout, and this was a different beast.
- Throwing: Turns out, throwing a rugby ball accurately while jumping is hard! My first few throws were… well, let’s just say they didn’t go where they were supposed to. One even went backward. Mortifying!
- Coordination: It’s not just about throwing. I had to work with my jumpers to time their jump and my throw. It’s like a little dance, and we were definitely stepping on each other’s toes at first.
Open Play
Being a participant in open play is also part of the fun.
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Get around:
Help the team by being available.
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Tackle:
Do your part and support.
My Takeaway
After a few practice sessions and one very chaotic game, I have a newfound respect for hookers. It’s a physically demanding position that requires strength, timing, and a whole lot of coordination. I definitely felt muscles I didn’t know I had! I wouldn’t say I’m a pro hooker now, not by a long shot, but I’m getting there. It’s a fun challenge, and I’m excited to keep working at it.
It’s a tough, gritty, and frankly, sometimes painful position. I walked away with a few bruises and a sore back, but also with a big grin. It’s a position that is in action and key to success.
