MICHAEL & LOUIS LYNAGH: LIKE FATHER, LIKE SON

Hampton School’s TALK! series has seen speakers from all backgrounds standing on the stage of the Hammond Theatre and sharing their experiences with pupils and parents alike. From politics to journalism and medicine to rugby, the opportunities offered are invaluable.

However, one event stood out to me. On an autumn evening in November, we were fortunate to enjoy 90 minutes of captivating conversation between Australian Rugby great, Michael Lynagh; upcoming star and Old Hamptonian, Louis Lynagh OH (2019); and fellow Old Hamptonian and The Times Deputy Rugby Correspondent, Will Kelleher OH (2010).

Having spoken to Kelleher before the event, his memories of Hampton have certainly not faded away. Having been editor of the Hampton Sports Chronicle from 2009 to the end of his time at the School, he had an almost tangible appreciation for the opportunities this provided him, as it helped boost him on to journalistic success in later life.

Kelleher reminisced on Mr Peter Smith, the former head of the Hampton Sports Chronicle, before his departure in 2020. Furthermore, he was certainly impressed by the technological developments the magazine has taken over the past decade, chiefly, the transition from ‘newspaper-style print’ to the glossy magazine-style adopted for our annual publication, as well as the HSC website.

Kelleher’s contribution to the School didn’t go amiss, receiving the Dennis King Cup upon his farewell. This is awarded to leavers who have committed much of their time and effort to the School with loyalty, modesty and efficiency.

Moving forward, Kelleher’s success in journalism is inspirational to say the least. At the age of 29, he has achieved monumental feats for various UK publications. His career was kick-started in 2015, by the Daily Mail, with Kelleher reporting on a wide range of rugby news, from player-specific articles to Fiji’s chances in the England Rugby World Cup in 2015.

His talent in journalism earned him a promotion to Deputy Rugby Correspondent at The Times, in January 2022. At the time of writing, Kelleher has published three articles in the past 24 hours, primarily due to the uncertain future of the England National Team, following the sacking of Head Coach Eddie Jones.

Kelleher’s fascination towards Michael and Louis Lynagh during the TALK!, as well as their shared passion for rugby, was recognisable even from the distant heights of the balcony, from where I watched the event. He guided the conversation perfectly, covering the collective careers of the two fearsome rugby players beside him.

Louis Lynagh is of particular interest to Hamptonians, many of whom he has already inspired through accomplishments after leaving Hampton in 2019. His time at the School certainly catalysed his climb to success, with Lynagh’s reflections upon his favourite moments, exemplifying his gratitude, as well as his enjoyment of Hampton life.

Most of all, Lynagh drew upon an intense game against Dulwich College in October 2018 - his last year at the School. Under the captaincy of Lynagh, the First XV were trailing with seconds to go in the second round of the National Cup. However, Hampton’s typical resilience, perseverance, and determination led to a spectacular moment in the dying embers of the match. Lynagh described the elation felt as substitute James Thompson crossed the try line, and wheeled off in celebration against the backdrop of a packed crowd, jubilant with the feeling of triumph over an arch-rival. Lynagh described this as his "most memorable Hampton moment," and with good reason.

Although Hampton eventually succumbed to Hurstpierpoint in the quarter-final, the feeling of victory can never be underestimated. Indeed, Lynagh commented that he felt a certain "anticipation to return to Hampton" for the TALK!, further manifesting the nostalgia that is present here for him and thousands of other alumni, including his interviewer, Will Kelleher.

On the contrary, Michael Lynagh, perhaps one of the most successful Australian rugby players of all time, had a different introduction to the world of rugby.

Having grown up in Brisbane, Australia, Michael started his career at the University of Queensland in 1982. His brief stint in English rugby with Saracens