Waratahs rugby stars hold nippers clinic ahead of Brookvale Oval clash

Super Rugby is returning to the northern beaches — and it promises to be a ‘nostalgic’ experience for NSW Waratahs star Michael Hooper.

Michael Hooper leading a training clinic. Picture: (AAP Image / Julian Andrews).

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SUPER Rugby is returning to the northern beaches — and it promises to be a “nostalgic” experience for NSW Waratahs star Michael Hooper.

While Allianz Stadium is being redeveloped, the Waratahs will be playing at several other venues during the 2019 season.

Rob Simmons participates in a passing drill. Picture: (AAP Image / Julian Andrews).

The first of the Waratahs’ games is a round one clash with the Wellington Hurricanes at Brookvale Oval on Saturday, February 16.

Traditionally a rugby league ground — home of the Manly Sea Eagles — Hooper, who has grown up on the northern beaches, told the Manly Daily he relished the chance to play in his backyard venue.

“I think it’s very nostalgic for me,” he said.

Rob Simmons gets hit with a falcon during the session. Picture: (AAP Image / Julian Andrews).

“Obviously you have family and friends, they travel to the game.

“And it’s about being proud of the area I grew up in — and I’m very proud.... it’s somewhere I want to live forever.”

Hooper joined teammates Rob Simmons and Jack Dempsey for a nippers clinic at North Steyne Surf Life Saving Club on Sunday to promote the big game.

Hooper, a former Manly Life Saving Club standout when he was a nipper himself, said it was a great chance to give back to the community.

Waratahs players conduct a training session at North Steyne. Picture: (AAP Image / Julian Andrews).

“It was really nice being down in an area I’ve spent so much of my life,” he said.

“Even though it was an enemy back in the day — where we used to have some good competition (between the two clubs) — it was a cracking day.

“The kids had a great time.”

Michael Hooper at North Steyne. Picture: (AAP Image / Julian Andrews).

North Steyne SLSC’s junior activities director Brian Mariotti said it was a great opportunity for the 100-odd kids to learn from some of their sporting heroes.

“There were a lot of selfies and we got a signed jersey, which is fantastic,” Mr Mariotti said.

“The guys spent some time doing some drills with them, throwing some balls around.”

For tickets to the match go to ticketmaster.com.au.