When NSW Waratahs U16s halfback Izak Holmes shows composure under pressure, it’s probably because he was born amongst it.
Holmes arrived in the world in a Perth hospital while his father, Luke Holmes, was out on the field playing a fixture for the Western Force.
Since that day, Izak’s life has been surrounded by a love for each element of the game.
And he will next get to showcase his talents on Sunday afternoon when he plays for the Waratahs U16s against Victoria at La Trobe University Sports Park in Melbourne.
Holmes credits his dad and his uncle, both former Super Rugby players, for his passion and commitment to his continuous improvement.
“Dad (Luke Holmes) played for the Western Force and the Melbourne Rebels, and my uncle (Josh Holmes) played for the Waratahs.” Holmes says.
“I love hearing the stories they tell from their playing days. Their opportunities and challenges are something I’d love to experience myself.
“Uncle Josh was a halfback for the Tahs, so his experience is something I really look to tap into.
“He’s helped me a lot with my core skills - passing, kicking and just the knowledge of my position and how best to play the game.”
“Seeing how Dad went through the pathways and learnt everything, he’s kind of given me the tools and knowledge to go through it the same way.”
This deep connection runs further than just the Holmes’ family; it is mirrored on the field.
The halves pairing of Holmes and Wilson Ruthven has been clinical this season, racking up huge scorelines and controlling the side through their innate leadership and cohesion.
"My Dad and Wilson’s Dad, Mike, (Waratahs Women Head Coach) actually played together at Warringah Rats, so our families go way back.” Holmes explains.
“Wilson and I have known each other our whole lives; so, playing beside him feels natural. We know each other's games very well.”
The young halves partnership has been rehearsed and developed for years.
“We’ve played together since we were eight.” Holmes says.
“We’ve been the 9 and 10 pairing for years. Because we’re such good mates, we just know where each other are on the field. We bring out the best in each other."
That cohesion is constantly strengthened by extra work outside of formal training.
“We do all the club training together at the Rats, Waratahs training and we both practice kicking a lot in our own time. All those little things have built that bond.”
As a current Year 10 student at Barker College, Holmes has progressed through the school’s rugby ranks.
As one of the younger players to represent the school at the highest level, he’s already familiar with the pressure of representative sport.
“My first time playing for the First XV this year for Barker was coming off the bench. That was the first time I felt a different kind of expectation,” he recalls.
“That environment was something I hadn’t had to go through before and I was nervous of the pressure of the arena.”
Far from shrinking from the big moments, Holmes actively looks to adopt and rise to the challenge.
He’s had an outstanding year at school level and is eager to carry his momentum through to finish the U16s competition on a positive note.
“I played every game this year for Barker, and it was definitely a season full of highlights,” he says.
“We went to Japan for the Sanix tournament, got to play at Allianz Stadium, then went on to win the CAS competition.
“That was special. The older boys invited me into the culture, and it was a great opportunity to make lots of new mates.”
To keep his nerves in check, Holmes has developed a routine.
“One way I like to deal with the pressure of big moments is to use breathing techniques before games.” he explains.
“They help me stay calm and super relaxed. I also write down goals or things I need to remember in my notebook. Little reminders for the day.”
For Izak Holmes, rugby is more than a sport he plays a few times a week.
He has already impressed on the big stage and made lifelong friendships.
Guided by family experience and bolstered by a rock-solid partnership, he has navigated the pressures of the representative pathway while collecting silverware along the way.
“The biggest thing I’ve learnt is not to take it for granted,” he says.
“Being part of the Waratahs program and surrounded by great players is super special.
“All those things help me and make me want to succeed. To play for the Waratahs and one day be a Wallaby.”
Match Details:
Round 5: NSW Waratahs Vs Victoria U16s
Where: La Trobe University Sports Park (Rugby Fields), Melbourne
When: Sunday, 26th of October
Kick Off: 2:00pm
