( article taken from www.sport.bizcommunity.com)
A revolutionary new training aid is changing the way hookers practice. This innovative piece of equipment, used by coaches and hookers alike, makes it possible for hookers to practice their throw-in techniques into the line-outs independently, without assistance from their teammates.
Aptly called Hooker’s Mate, it is already being used by the Vodacom Stormers and the Vodacom WP, to name but a few.
Created by ex Boland Super League Rugby Coach, Hendri Terblanche, and tested at International and Super 14 Level, this product fills the gap for training aids for hookers. It is sure to the change the way coaches approach hooker’s training in schools, clubs and provincial teams.
”With the new ELV’s, skew throw-ins are penalised by free kicks. Therefore winning your own line-out ball is critical, especially on your own five meter goal line. With this invention, it is much easier as your hooker is trained at throwing straight at the correct height, where your jumper aided by supporting players, catches the ball,” says Terblanche. ”Using the Hooker’s Mate when coaching enables the coach to have all the hookers in the club and school training together. Hooker’s Mate makes video analysis of the hooker’s throwing technique possible. This can be used to improve the hooker’s technique without having to lose line-out ball in the competitive situation.”
In addition, Hooker’s mate can be used to develop the timing of throw-ins with the assistance of another teammate. (This is the only time another team mate is required.)
Versatile in it’s applications, it can also be a useful tool in evaluating potential new recruits and to practice and develop other handling and passing skills. Being compact and light, it is easy to transport and is suitable for all ages.
Not wanting to rely solely on the success of Hooker’s Mate, Terblanche is already in the process of developing other similarly innovative rugby training aids. Watch this space!
For further information please send an e-mail to enquiries@hookersmate.co.za or alternatively call +27 (0)82 895 1881.