Harry Hooper

Harry Reed Hooper (16 December 1910 – 24 March 1970) was an English professional footballer who played as a full-back. Born in Burnley, Lancashire, he started his career with Nelson before joining Sheffield United in 1930. During his time with United, he captained the side in the 1936 FA Cup Final. After 17 years with the club, he moved to Hartlepools United before retiring in 1950. Between 1957 and 1962, he was the manager of Halifax Town.

Playing career

Nelson He was playing for Nelson Tradesmen when he was spotted by Football League Third Division North side Nelson, who signed him as an amateur in October 1928. He made his senior debut on 20 October in the 0–4 defeat away at Carlisle United. Hooper was awarded a professional contract the following month, but found it difficult to break into the first-team. He returned to the starting line-up in place of Clem Rigg for the 2–3 loss to Darlington on 5 January 1929 and retained his place for the next ten matches. Hooper found his first-team opportunities even more limited in the 1929–30 season following the signing of Billy Fairhurst from Southport. Hooper was made captain in 1935 and captained the side as they lost 0–1 to Arsenal in the 1936 FA Cup Final. He moved on to an assistant trainer post at West Ham United in November 1950. In October 1957, he was appointed manager of Halifax Town, and spent almost five seasons in charge of the club before leaving in April 1962. Hooper was a heavy smoker and would famously have a cigarette at half-time while with Sheffield United. His smoking was such that goalkeeper Jack Smith was the only teammate that would room with him on away trips.

Honours Sheffield United FA Cup runner-up: 1935–36