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From a Comeback to Club Captain – Jordan Hawker’s Yate Rugby Journey

Well, what a ride it’s been. From stepping away from rugby as a 16-year-old due to injury and lost confidence, to now captaining a men’s side in one of the most exciting and tight-knit clubs in the region—this has been a journey I never expected, but one I’m so grateful for.

I’ve been playing rugby for around 14 years, starting at school and running out for Thornbury age groups. After that injury, I thought maybe my playing days were behind me. But two years later, I moved to Yate—and as fate would have it, Yate Rugby had just launched. Something about the project, the people, and the vision drew me in, and I threw myself back into the game. Best decision I’ve ever made.


From “a few fat blokes” to a full rugby family

Fast forward to now—our men’s team is in its 8th season, and it’s genuinely hard to believe how far we’ve come. When I look back, one moment stands out above the rest: winning back-to-back league titles. Seeing our squad rise from humble beginnings to regularly fielding two senior men’s teams, growing a phenomenal women’s section, and building a thriving youth academy—it’s nothing short of amazing.

The culture we’ve built at Yate Rugby—one of pride, positivity, and progression—is at the heart of everything we do. It’s what gets lads up for training in the rain, what brings supporters to the side-lines every weekend, and what keeps players coming back season after season.


This Season: Grit, Growth & Greatness

Coming into this season, the aim was clear: push for a top-two finish. But wow, the first couple of games were tough—Drybrook gave us a reality check, and Frampton took us right to the wire. Starting 0-2 wasn’t in the script, and it would’ve been easy to let the energy drop. But not with this group.

What followed? Nine straight wins. That turnaround speaks volumes about the leaders in this team, the resilience of the squad, and the belief that runs through the club. Whether we finish top or not, this season has been a triumph in growth, spirit, and togetherness.


The Road Ahead – Bigger, Bolder, Stronger

The opportunity for growth in our men’s section is huge. We’re already seeing the signs: bigger numbers at training, new sessions added, and players constantly challenging themselves and each other. The coaching setup pushes us to be better every week—technically, tactically, and mentally. It’s tough. It’s rewarding. And it’s working.

Next season, it’s all about building on that momentum—raising standards, staying humble, and continuing to drive forward together.

But above all, the one thing I want us to carry into every match, every training session, and every social is this: togetherness. It’s the glue that’s held us through injuries, tough games, and off-field challenges. We play for each other, and that makes us dangerous in the best possible way.


A Final Word

Being part of Yate Rugby has changed my life. The people, the culture, the memories—it’s a family. And whether you're a player, a coach, a volunteer, or a first-time fan on the sideline—you matter here.

The club’s future is blindingly bright, and I can’t wait to see what’s next. We’re building something special at Yate Rugby, and I’m proud to wear the badge with everything it stands for.


Visit our website to learn more about Yate Rugby, and how you can get involved. Follow us on social media to stay updated with all our latest news, upcoming matches, and events.

Together, we’re growing stronger, and we’re excited to have you along for the journey!

Join us in celebrating this exciting new chapter for Yate Rugby. Let’s keep pushing forward – with pride, positivity, and progression! Visit Yate Rugby Website

 
 
 

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"Pride, Positivity, Progression"
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