Charlie Hancock: Rugby, Business and the Pursuit of Improvement

Image credit: Carl Robertson/ @Cardiffmetsport

“Rugby means a lot to me. I’ve played it for as long as I can remember, and it’s definitely helped make me who I am today. Obviously, it’s great for staying fit and active, but the majority of my closest mates are people I’ve met through rugby. So yeah, it’s everything, really.”

For Charlie Hancock, rugby is more than a physical game; it’s a way to bond, to connect, and to grow. He is a player who has run out for some iconic clubs and is now embarking on a different challenge.

Bridgend Athletic

Bridgend is full of fantastic clubs with rich histories. The Ath have built a fantastic history in Welsh rugby. Hancock learnt the game in the famous green and gold, whether it was playing on cold Sunday mornings or representing the seniors; it’s a love that will last a lifetime.

“Bridgend Ath is a club I’ve played for all the way from minis and juniors, through youth and into the seniors. I’ve learnt a lot through playing for the Ath and had some amazing opportunities along the way. Getting the chance to play at the Principality with both the youth and seniors shows the level the club consistently competes at and the big occasions it reaches.”

Another rugby establishment that holds significance for the fly-half is Cardiff Met. Cyncoed Campus holds a special place in his heart.

Cardiff Met and Pontypridd

“Cardiff Met was a massive part of my life. I learnt so much as a player from top-quality coaches. The level of detail they go into is like no other, and the resources you have access to are unreal. I also learnt a lot about myself as a person, built real connections with coaches and players, and made friends and memories for life. I couldn’t recommend Cardiff Met enough.”

After university, Hancock found himself playing at Sardis Road. He got the opportunity to play for iconic Pontypridd. It was an opportunity he didn’t take lightly.

“Pontypridd was the first club I signed for after leaving university, and it was an unreal experience being part of such a prestigious club. It was a great environment to be in, and I learnt loads from top-quality coaches and players. I struggled with injury during my time there, but it was still a great opportunity and a massive learning experience.”

Off the rugby pitch, the former Archer is building his S&C business.

S&C Adventure

“It’s been a really exciting start to my career in strength and conditioning. My MSc has given me a really strong base of knowledge, but the practical experience I’ve had so far has been unreal. Leading S&C programmes at Dragons RFC and Glantaf Rugby Academy has given me hands-on experience that no course could compare to. I’m now starting with Bristol Bears Women for the season, which I’m really excited about, while also taking on one-to-one clients as part of a new business venture.”

He is starting to build a wealth of experience working in some fantastic environments. Hancock has set a clear goal: the pursuit of improvement.

“The goal of the business is really just to develop and help athletes as much as I can. I genuinely love helping people grow, improve and become better versions of themselves, so the more I can do that, the better!”

It will be exciting to see what the future holds for Hancock on or off the pitch.

“One of my future ambitions is to get back to playing rugby at the highest level possible. This year is really a chance for me to take a break and focus on building my career outside of rugby. Once I’m properly on my feet with that, rugby can become more of a focus for me again.”

For Hancock, passion isn’t reserved for the rugby field. It defines how he approaches business, rugby, and every challenge that comes his way. Wherever the journey leads next, you can be certain he will pour his heart into every step.

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