At the age of 23, Ethan Hooker is already a regular member of the Springbok squad, but his next challenge is to take on a leadership role in the clash with Munster in Limerick.
The Sharks midfielder marks his 50th appearance for the Durban-based team in the match against Munster, scheduled for Saturday. Coach JP Pietersen expresses confidence that Hooker will be able to take on greater responsibility in the absence of injured captain Andre Esterhuizen.
Pietersen noted: 'Ethan Hooker, 50th match—he is a local lad from Durban, who studied near Kings Park in Westville Boys High.' He added that it was a dream for Hooker to play for the Sharks his whole life, and that his 50th match arriving so soon is a special moment.
The coach emphasized: 'He always told me that central midfield is his favorite position. That's why he plays at number 12 in his 50th match, and what a valuable player he is for the Sharks. He is a true professional.'
Pietersen also highlighted the player's positive qualities: 'Everyone likes his energy, how he takes care of himself, and how he upholds standards in the group.'
Since Esterhuizen is unavailable, the coach is confident that the young centre will take on additional duties against the strong Munster side. Pietersen stated: 'He definitely belongs in our leadership group, and he shows it on the field. The responsibility of leading the defense rests on him; we have lost our captain Andre, and Ethan will have to fill this role.'
The coach expressed full support for the player: 'I am confident he will manage and lead us. I always believe in his words and actions. As you can see, he does this for both the Sharks and the Springboks. I am extremely proud of what Ethan has achieved at such a young age and how he motivates himself on and off the field.'
Despite Hooker's successes, another young graduate of Westville, Zeke Siyaya, will strive to make an impression after not being included in the Springbok squad for November. The 19-year-old impressed Pietersen with his performances for the Sharks, but the coach understands that patience is important for a recently school-leaver.
Pietersen commented: 'Zeke was good for us. He is still a child, and sometimes we as coaches have to remind ourselves that he has just finished school.'
He continued: 'He was outstanding and learns as he goes. It is good to see that when thrown into deep water, he is capable of swimming and fighting for his place.'
In Pietersen's view, Siyaya should use his exclusion from the Springbok squad as motivation rather than letting disappointment affect his progress. The coach advised: 'He must stay motivated because you never know when injuries might happen in international matches and an opportunity might arise. Obviously, he is disappointed, but I think he should use this as a challenge to show that he is capable of doing even more.'