Michael Hooper is the current captain of the Australian rugby union side and domestic side, the Waratahs. Hooper, who started his rugby union career for the Brumbies in 2010, has enjoyed a very successful career to date and reflects on this during his time as a rugby speaker.
Hooper made his debut for the Brumbies in 2010 after crucial player, George Smith was ruled out with an injury. Hooper impressed in his first couple of seasons with the club before making a huge breakout in 2012, Hooper put in regular impressive performances and was soon the talking point of Australian rugby. After winning Australian Rugby Union Rookie of the year award, Hooper signed for Super Rugby side the Waratahs.
His first season at the Waratahs proved to be extremely successful as he won a number of fantastic accolades. He was named Australian Super 15 player of the year and the Waratahs player of the year, a fantastic achievement in his first year with the club. He first captained the club in a convincing 32-5 win against the Queensland Reds in March 2014. The Waratahs made it to the 2014 Grand Final in which Hooper was captain for, the Waratahs beat the Crusaders 33-32 in what proved to be a nailbiting match!
Hooper made his international debut in 2012 after coming off the bench against Scotland. He made an instant impact on the side and soon earnt a regular place in the starting XV, after an impressive number of matches in 2013, Hooper was named the Wallabies player of the year. His first game as captain came against France in 2014 following an injury to the then captain, Stephen Moore in the fifth minute. Hooper became the Wallabies captain after the Test series against France and was also named in the 2015 World Cup squad. Following an impressive 2016 season, Hooper was named the Wallabies player of the year for a second time, making him only the 4th player of all time to win it twice.
Hooper continues to excel as a player, both internationally and domestically, he is available to book as an after dinner rugby speaker. During his time as a rugby speaker, Hooper often discusses his ongoing career, dealing with pressure and the importance of quality leadership skills. He offers great insight into the sport with his bubbly personality and provides great wit and humour.
