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Posted on: 03/10/2016Sporting Hero at Hope Academy
Head of Year 8 and PE teacher Mr Crook travelled to France last weekend and captained Rochdale Hornets in a shock win over Toulouse to earn promotion to the Rugby League Championship. Rochdale were trailing 16-0 after 20 minutes but came back to inflict the French side’s first league defeat of the season. The match ended 22-24 in Rochdale’s favour, a phenomenal result under the circumstances.
It is difficult to exaggerate the importance of this victory:
- Visiting a team with an unbeaten record
- Having to travel to France, where home victories seem almost routine
- Trailing by 16 points
- Needing to win to gain promotion
Mr Crook showed the leadership qualities that the best captains should by scoring 3 conversions and a penalty; this makes him the highest points scorer in Rochdale Hornets’ history, beating a record which has stood for 81 years (1,497 points). His commitment to the club has been exemplary, and he is a great role model for aspiring players.
Congratulations Mr Crook; I think we can say that Rugby League at Hope Academy is in safe hands with our very own sporting hero.