In the heart of an undefeated 2-0 season, Jordan Jackson-Hope sits down to share insights on the team’s recent victory, the preparation for the challenges ahead, and the unyielding spirit that defines both him and his team. Following their win against Anthem RC, the atmosphere within the team is a blend of celebration and concentration, with sights firmly set on the next big match. Jordan’s reflections offer a glimpse into the team dynamics, strategies, and the personal drive that propels him forward.
Q: Jordan, welcome and congratulations on a good win against Anthem RC. How did the boys celebrate?
A: Yeah, it was great to get that win. We’ve got a big match this week, so I think most of the boys took it easy on Saturday with that in mind.
Q: NOLA is off to its best start ever at 2-0. This is a huge jump from last year. How does the squad feel headed into week 3?
A: Truth be told, I think we’re hungry. We still don’t feel like we’ve played our best rugby, so we’re ready to put in a complete, 80-minute performance. Hopefully that comes against New England.
Q: Confidence can be a good and a bad thing; at times, it may lead some people to feeling complacent. How does this team avoid complacency despite recent success?
A: I think complacency is the last thing on everyone’s minds right now. Like I said, this team is hungry for a complete performance, and I’m confident it’s coming.
Q: In week 2, we started hot and controlled the majority of the game. How does your play change when you’re controlling a lead instead of searching for it?
A: Yeah, we got off to a quick start against Anthem, which was great to see. From a game management perspective, it’s just key to make sure everyone is on the same page and we play intelligent rugby throughout. We were a bit slow to start in the second half, so we’ll look to clean that up in Week 3.
Q: Now in year 2 with the GOLD, have you undertaken more of a leadership role in this squad?
A: Definitely. I feel really comfortable on the pitch and think that the squad has gelled in a great way. Like I said, a key way for me to lead is to make sure everyone is organized in the back and executing their tasks well.
Q: We’ve got our stiffest test against the reigning champion Free Jacks in Week 3. Is this exciting, daunting, or a little bit of both?
A: Oh, we’re excited. We’ve been looking forward to this one. Obviously, since New England won the competition last year, it’s a huge incentive for us to go out and put in a complete performance. We’re ready for a good game.
Q: It’s also our first away fixture of the year. What are some principles that lead to a good travel week and make sure the boys are ready for action on Saturday?
A: Everything’s super professional. I know our physios will have some good sessions planned for us when we arrive to make sure we’re loose and ready to fire on Saturday. We’re locked in, and travel is just another part of the game plan.
Q: What phases of the game will be critical to win against New England?
A: We really need to win the physical battle against them. They’re a physical team that’s really effective up front — if we can control that phase, I like our chances to open up other areas of the pitch and play strong, free rugby.
Reece Macdonald from New England has had a strong start to the season.
Q: What will be key to containing him?
A: We just want to shut him down from the jump. That means sticking to our markings and keeping tight as a unit. He’s a good player.
Q: You’re nicknamed “Rabs” and it’s pretty clear you’re one of the fastest guys on the pitch. How can we get you into space to utilize that speed?
A: It all comes down to my teammates giving me good service. When they do that, I’m ready to capitalize, and they’ve done a great job so far.
Q: If you want GOLD fans to know one thing about you, what would it be?
A: I’m an absolute competitor. My goal is to win.
Rapid Fire
Q: What’s on the playlist to get you hyped up on matchday?
A: I love house music…a lot of Fred again, Tchami, and the sort. I like Rufus du Sol as well, but it’s just a bit too slow for a matchday.
Q: Is it a hot dog a sandwich?
A: No, a hot dog is a hot dog.
Q: How many scrambled eggs could you eat in one sitting?
A: At least 20.
Q: Who wins in a 1 mile race, Sean Paranihi or you in rainboots?
A: I’m gonna back myself here.
Q: Would you rather: you can listen to any song in the world but it’s sung by Pitbull, or you can listen to only Pitbull songs, but anybody in the world can sing it?
I’d listen to anybody sing Pitbull songs I think. That’s a tough question.
