YOUNG GUNS
When sifting through the debris of last season’s relegation, Declan Kidney, London Irish’s new director of rugby, stated he was only interested in keeping men who were committed to the cause. They don’t come much more dedicated than Jack Cooke.
An Exiles season ticket holder from the age of six courtesy of rugby-loving parents, Cooke made his way via Bracknell RFC and Forest School, Winnersh, into London Irish’s AASE programme and was part of their U18s team that claimed the Premiership title in 2016.
Alumni like Joe Cokanasiga have moved on, but Cooke, 20, said: “There’ve been a few changes and relegation was a blow, but I’ve always been a fan of this club and it’s an exciting time with new coaches in charge. I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.
“My parents were big supporters – my mum’s fully Irish and my dad’s English – so I caught the bug early and even though we’re in the Championship, my plan now is to push on from what I did last season and try to establish myself in the first team.”
Cooke, who has represented Ireland U19s but remains Englandqualified, featured regularly in the Anglo-Welsh and European Challenge Cups last season before making his long-awaited Premiership debut at Bath on the final day of last season.
It did not go to plan, however, with Cooke recalling: “We got hammered 63-19, which wasn’t a result we wanted, and after coming on with eight minutes to go I then got concussed after three minutes and had to go off, which was disappointing.
“It’s one of those things, but it was good to get the chance and it’s a big year for me now.”
He added: “I was sorry to see Nick Kennedy go last season because he was with me all the way through the academy, but Declan Kidney and Les Kiss are in charge now and they’re good guys so hopefully I can go on and earn a senior contract.”
Kennedy has gone but continuity remains amongst the other coaches, with another of Cooke’s long-time mentors, Dec Danaher, still on the staff.
Cooke said: “Dec’s a London Irish legend and a former back row like me, so he’s been huge for my career and it’s great to still be working with him. He used to be so intense but he’s calmed down a bit now and he’s someone I’ve learned loads off.
“He knows what he’s doing and has been there for us through the academy so it would be nice to make my mark and repay the faith he’s shown.”
Having also represented the London Irish Wild Geese late last season, helping them avoid relegation from National Two, Cooke reveals how he tries to model his game on another top back row, adding: “Dan Lydiate’s someone I like to look up to.“He’s a hard worker and the way he chop tackles is an example to all. I enjoy the physical side of defence and if I can get to his level I’ll be happy.”