Gold sticks with Hooper

New Bath head coach Gary Gold has confirmed that Stuart Hooper will continue to captain the side for the forthcoming season.

An injury ravaged season limited the Exeter-born lock to just 13 appearances in the Blue, Black and White in 2011/12, but following a typically dedicated and determined rehabilitation and pre-season period, new head coach Gary Gold had no hesitation in re-selecting Hooper as skipper.

“Stuart is an exemplary leader, both on and off the field.” Gold said. “His leadership qualities have been evident to us since the start of pre-season, and obviously to the club before that, and he is a hugely dedicated professional.

"He is a strong communicator, a very clever player and his work ethic is outstanding. Possibly most importantly of all, he has the complete respect of all the players and staff here.”

West Country to the core (Hooper was born and raised in Devon), the 6’ 5” second row joined Bath from Leeds Carnegie four years ago. He has become an integral member of the squad in that time, and embodies the character, pride and determination of Bath rugby.

Speaking about the decision, Hooper said: “I feel an immense amount of pride and honour in being asked by Gary and the coaches to continue as captain this season. As a group we are hugely excited about the season ahead and on a personal level I look forward to fighting for my place in a hugely competitive squad and leading the team into the coming season.”