Tom Hooper's rugby journey is an intriguing tale of ambition, growth, and the pursuit of excellence. The 25-year-old flanker has extended his contract with Exeter Chiefs until 2028, a move that seems to defy conventional wisdom. While many players might opt for a quick return to Australia, Hooper is choosing to stay and build upon the momentum he generated in his first season at Sandy Park. This decision is not just about the rugby; it's about the people, the culture, and the potential for success.
A Perfect Three-Year Stint
Hooper's decision to extend his stay in Exeter is a strategic one. He believes that three years is the perfect amount of time to achieve success with the Chiefs. This isn't just about winning a title; it's about the journey and the growth that comes with it. Two years, he argues, would have been too short to truly make an impact in the top European league. Three years, on the other hand, allows for a more comprehensive understanding of the game and the team's dynamics.
"I think a three-year stint is a perfect amount of time to achieve some success over there," Hooper said. "I feel like two years probably would have only just been getting started. Whilst we made the grand final this year, we haven't even dipped the toe in in terms of the top European league. We haven't gone that whole way and won the Premiership, so I think three years is a good amount of time."
The Exeter Effect
What makes Hooper's decision even more intriguing is the culture and the people at Exeter. The Chiefs have a core group of players who have re-signed for the same period, creating a tight-knit unit. This isn't just about rugby; it's about the bonds formed and the shared experiences. Hooper has grown as a rugby player and as an individual, learning from inspirational leaders like Dafydd Jenkins and professionals like Henry Slade and Jack Yeandle.
"Playing with guys like Henry Slade, Jack Yeandle, I've learnt plenty off them about leadership qualities, about how much they've got kids and families and they completely buy into the team culture," Hooper said. "Also the professionalism, the extras they do after training, they just live in the gym, whether that's because the rain's coming in sideways or because they actually want to be in there, but they're always in the gym."
A Return to Australia, Transformed
Hooper's time in Exeter has been transformative. He has returned to Australia as a better player, having learned from some of the best in the game. His time at the Brumbies, where he learned from Allan Alaalatoa and James Slipper, has been a foundation for his growth. Now, he is looking forward to bringing that experience back to Australia, both on and off the field.
"When I went to Brumbies I learnt plenty off Allan Alaalatoa and James Slipper, and they were the guys that I'll cherish playing with them in a Brumbies jersey for as long as I play," Hooper said. "It's a similar experience going over there, working with guys younger than me but Dafydd Jenkins, he's a really inspirational leader."
The Future of Rugby
Hooper's decision to extend his stay in Exeter is a testament to the power of culture and the importance of relationships in rugby. It raises a deeper question: How can we create more environments like Exeter, where players can grow, learn, and achieve success together? The future of rugby may well depend on our ability to foster these kinds of communities, where the game is secondary to the people and the culture.
"I think a three-year stint is a perfect amount of time to achieve some success over there," Hooper said. "I feel like two years probably would have only just been getting started."
In my opinion, Hooper's decision is a bold one, and it will be fascinating to see how it plays out. The rugby world is watching, and the lessons learned from this experience could shape the future of the sport. For now, though, Hooper is focused on the present, and the potential for success that lies ahead.
