Hamilton to lead by example
Newly-appointed Gloucester captain Jim Hamilton’s work ethic, mental toughness and energy on the field will set standards for his teammates at Kingsholm.
Nigel Davies, Director of Rugby, who is championing an exciting new era at the West Country club, said it was important that the club captain led with passion and commitment – setting a tone for this season’s performances and bringing a hard-nosed and committed approach on the field.
Davies said: “I’ve been really impressed with Jim since I arrived this summer, his work ethic and commitment to Gloucester Rugby’s success is without question. The kind of intense passion and energy he brings to the group adds to his qualities as a natural leader.
“He has a very positive impact on the players around him, he never plays at less than 100% and it’s vital our captain displays and represents the qualities and values of our whole team.
“He plays with his heart on his sleeve and is very serious about rugby and getting things right. The fact he’s a hard-nosed, committed player and intense on the field is exactly what we need to bring to our game this season.
“That toughness needs to be instilled across the group; add to that Jim’s natural enthusiasm and strong personality, I think he’ll be a key figure for us this season.
“He has been really motivated by this opportunity and is looking forward to the new responsibility and the commitment of leading our team.
“He recognises he has the support of a strong group of experienced players to draw upon and will work well alongside him. That combination gives us a very positive atmosphere as a group.”
Hamilton joined Gloucester for the 2010/11 season after three years with Edinburgh Rugby with a distinguished international career already established with Scotland and close to 40 appearances for his country.
The 29-year old second row forward now enters his third season with the club and has made a big impact during his time at Kingsholm.
Hamilton said it was a source of great pride and a career highlight to be asked to lead Gloucester.
“To captain such a special club as Gloucester, with the loyal and passionate supporters we have, is a huge honour for me and I’ll accept that responsibility with real pride and commitment to the players around me and everyone who supports our great club.
“I’ve said before that the best leaders and motivators stand up in changing rooms in the build up to matches and demand the highest standards of their teammates.
“The best leaders and motivators then get out on the pitch and produce those standards themselves, backing up what they asked of others by offering the very same.
“I’ve always tried to take that kind of role at Gloucester, and I know when I demand certain things of others I have to deliver them too.
“We’ve had a very positive preseason – the boys are in a great frame of mind, and have responded really well to the new set up here.
“There’s a real edge, energy and enthusiasm at training and we look forward to getting the new season underway and showing what this team is truly capable of achieving.
“Nigel (Davies) has spoken to me at length about what we need to bring to our performances and how to get the full potential out of a genuine world-class backline and a talented and committed pack of forwards.
“I feel very honoured and humbled to captain a side with the level of class and quality we have here across the squad.”
