Season 11 Episode 9 Jack Hanratty (The Olympic journey)
Aug 17, 2024
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Jack Hanratty, a key player in Canada 7's rugby, shares his Olympic journey filled with emotional highs and lows. He discusses the deep connections formed in rugby, both at home and on the international stage. The conversation delves into the unique challenges athletes face, from selection anxieties to personal setbacks, all while celebrating the strong community spirit in rugby sevens. Hanratty also highlights coaching dynamics and the importance of resilience in achieving Olympic aspirations, offering a powerful insight into the world of competitive sports.
Experiencing the Olympics amidst passionate fans heightens appreciation for rugby, fostering a genuine connection to the sport and its community.
The transition from coaching at the Olympic level to a university role offers a chance for personal growth while promoting grassroots rugby development in Canada.
Deep dives
Experiencing the Olympics
The excitement of participating in the Olympics is a unique experience, especially when it comes to the atmosphere generated by the crowd. Watching a rugby match in front of 60,000 enthusiastic fans without any distractions from alcohol provided a pure appreciation of the sport. The speaker highlights a moment of realization during a tense game, where the feeling of winning a medal became tangible when a crucial try was scored. The energy of the event, compounded by the fans' knowledge of the game, contributed to an engaging and exhilarating experience for the players and supporters alike.
Impact of the Medal Win
Winning an Olympic medal has significant implications for the sport of rugby in Canada, fueling excitement and interest in the game. The timing of their victory at the beginning of the Olympics allowed for substantial media coverage, making it a prime time for rugby awareness in the country. The hope is that this achievement will inspire more individuals to engage with rugby clubs across Canada, ultimately growing the sport. The speaker reflects on how both the emotional journey of securing the medal and the overwhelming public support can lead to a renewed interest in rugby at all levels.
The Challenges of Coaching
Coaching at the Olympic level comes with a unique set of pressures and emotional challenges that can feel overwhelming. The journey to the Olympics was marked by extensive preparation and hard work, with a recognition that the difference between success and failure in sevens rugby can hinge on just a few minutes in a game. The speaker reflects on the mental fatigue experienced even after their achievement, emphasizing the emotional toll that coaching and competing can take on coaches and athletes alike. This reflects a commitment to excellence and personal growth, as they seek to learn from each experience and improve their coaching methods.
Looking Forward
Transitioning from coaching the national team to a university role brings a new chapter for the coach, who expresses enthusiasm for this change. With prior experiences shaping their coaching philosophy, they hope to apply what they've learned while continuing to develop and enhance their skills. The speaker intends to slow down their pace while still being actively involved in rugby, with aspirations of contributing to the growth of the game at the grassroots level. Overall, this new opportunity allows for both personal and professional development while remaining connected to the Canadian rugby community.