Will Crane’s journey to professional rugby is a testament to dedication and perseverance. The 31-year-old hooker from Hartpury has tirelessly combined his career as a mortgage advisor with playing rugby, a commitment that recently culminated in an opportunity with Gloucester Rugby during an injury crisis at Kingsholm.
When Gloucester found themselves without hookers Seb Blake, Jack Singleton, and Jack Innard, Crane stepped up, starting in four consecutive matches – two in the Gallagher Premiership and two in the Investec Champions Cup. His ability to juggle a full-time job while training just three times a week, often starting with a 5 a.m. gym session, proved invaluable.
Crane’s daily routine differs markedly from fully professional teammates. “I’m technically self-employed but work under the umbrella of a company that offers great flexibility,” he says. “While others may relax after training, I open my laptop and work until nine at night. The days are long, but it’s rewarding.”
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His debut for Gloucester came during a prior hooker crisis earlier in the season, reinforcing the trust the club has in his abilities. Adapting to Gloucester’s lineout and forming effective communication with Argentine lock Matias Alemanno, who commands the lineout, was a challenge Crane embraced. Although the intricacies took time to master, his experience has grown steadily.
Crane’s rugby journey began over a decade ago when, at 20, he left Solihull for New Zealand’s South Island. There, playing for Excelsior Blue in north Otago, he transitioned from the back row to hooker, learning a different style of rugby that emphasized fitness and ball-in-hand play over set pieces. Beyond rugby, he worked as a housemaster at a boarding school, gaining valuable life experience.
Returning to England, he played for Moseley before enrolling at Hartpury University, where he gradually secured a key role in their squad. He expresses gratitude for Coach Mark Cornwell, whose support has been vital to his development.
Even when absent due to his Gloucester duties, Crane remains connected to Hartpury’s success. The team recently secured a notable victory against Worcester Warriors at Sixways, maintaining an unbeaten home record and climbing to fourth in the Championship standings ahead of challenging fixtures against Bedford Blues, Chinnor, and Ealing Trailfinders.
Reflecting on the Championship’s new format, Crane appreciates the competitive balance: “Anyone can win on their day. The knockout stages add real excitement, and teams are motivated to be in contention.”
Experiencing packed crowds at Kingsholm, including clashes with French giants Toulon and local rivals Bath, has raised Crane’s game awareness. “The noise is intense; lineout communication relies on hand signals as much as vocal calls. Early on, I had only a week to learn Gloucester’s lineout calls before a crucial game against Newcastle, so it was a steep learning curve. But with more time, it’s flowing much better.”
With Gloucester’s immediate hooker crisis resolved, Crane returns focus to Hartpury as they push for a top-six finish. His unique blend of professional commitment and rugby passion continues to inspire teammates and fans alike, proving that dreams can be achieved through hard work and resilience.