Barbara Latkowski
Caledonia Courier
Rugby is not a sport you normally see being played on a pitch in Fort St. James.
But for Harrison Hooke, the sport has become his first love.
The 16-year-old from Fort St. James is excited to be invited to participate in the rugby U17 Development Program in March.
“I’m really excited,” Hooke says. “This is something I’m really good at.”
And good he is.
Hooke began playing in grade 8 at Fort St. James Secondary School.
The school no longer offered the sport so Hooke decided to follow it himself. He attended Brentwood College from 2014-2015 where he continued to play.
While at the school, Hooke had the opportunity to tour Argentina for 18 days with the senior rugby team.
He also played for East Vancouver U15 in 2014 and for Okanagan U16.
Hooke also captained against Team USA U16 at the B.C. selection camp. He also played for B.C. U16 at the Western National Finals in Kelowna where he received first place.
In the fall of 2015, Hooke played for North Star U18 sevens team and in November, he was selected the national U17 Development Program.
The Canada U18 National Team will eventually be selected from this group of 50 kids from across Canada.
But with all of his rugby achievements, Hook is always happy to come back home to the Fort with his friends and family.
There, he enjoys working out and riding horses while attending Fort St. James Secondary School.
“I love the freedom here. I’m not much of a city kid,” Hooke said.
Regardless, Hooke continues to look forward to his rugby prospects.
“I’m excited. I do see rugby as being a big part of my life in the future.”