Former Hoppers Mini/Junior Mike Haley capped off a fine season for Sale Sharks last week when he was crowned their young player of the season.
The 20 year old who played his youth rugby at Hoppers before being snapped up by Sale has been a regular starter for the Sharks at full back this season keeping out experienced Italian international Luke McLean. Haley has started 21 games for Sale as well as coming off the bench three times. These include 5 games in the European Champions Cup with games against Munster and eventual runners up Clermont Auvergne.
Michael Haley in a Hoppers shirt, Michael came through the Mini/Junior section at Hoppers before signing professionally at Sale
Sale have featured on BT Sport several times this season which has given several former internationals in the commentary team the chance to single out Haley for praise. Austin Healey was particularly impressed with Mike’s footwork and his coolness under pressure.
All of this represents a meteoric rise for Haley who was on a dual registration deal with Hoppers just two seasons ago in the 2012-13 season where he featured in 9 games as well as one the previous season as a 17 year old. Haley has been in attendance regularly at Hoppers 1st XV games this season as a spectator when his Sale games have allowed.
Everyone at Hoppers is very proud of Mike’s achievements so far and we hope he can go all the way to the top of the game. Good luck Mike.
