Former Director of Rugby at Bath, Stuart Hooper, will be departing the club after 15 years.
A statement from the west-country side reads:
“After 15 years of dedication to Bath Rugby, Stuart Hooper will depart the club this summer.
He had a profound impact on our playing squad due to his leadership and the way he conducted himself, spending five seasons as the club's captain which makes him the second-longest serving Bath skipper of all time. He made a huge contribution on the field and proudly led the side out at Twickenham in the 2014/15 Premiership final.
A role model whose dedication to Bath remains unquestionable, Hoops handed deserved debuts to a high number of homegrown talent and he has been a key driver in the club's ambitions for women and girls' rugby as well as player recruitment.
His contribution to Bath Rugby over such a long period of time has been immeasurable. Everyone at the club would like to thank Stu for everything and would like to wish him and his family all the very best for the future.”
Despite having very mixed results since joining the coaching ranks, the former captain remains a very popular man around the city.
Former player David Flatman joked: “Thank god his shoulders are wardrobe-wide. Make those ears look (almost) normal. A great man for whom I have nothing but love.”
Also on social media fans were quick to express their gratitude, with ‘towner555’ saying: “A club legend, who copped a lot of flak when things were going wrong, some of it perhaps deserved, but the bloke never deserved some of the real vitriolic and personal comments aimed at him.
“For me, Hoops will always be remembered as an inspiring skipper who left everything on the pitch, and an absolute Gentleman who always had time for the fans.
“Good luck Hoops, all the best for the future.”
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