Hooker made his international debut in 2000, competing for Australia in Santiago. Over the years, he has earned several nicknames including Steve, Hobbsy, and Hooksy. His hobbies include managing property, playing golf, reading, listening to music, and skydiving.

Coaching and Training

In 2013, Hooker started training under coach Dan Pfaff from the United States. This marked a new chapter in his career. He moved to Phoenix, AZ, USA with his wife Ekaterina Kostetskaya and their son Maxim. Hooker planned to reduce his training time for a year after the 2012 Olympics.

Challenges and Injuries

Hooker's career has not been without challenges. He suffered a left knee injury that affected his performances in 2010 and 2011. In 2009, he won gold at the World Championships in Berlin despite an injured adductor muscle. He also sat out the 2002 season due to patella tendonopathy and back problems.

Achievements and Honours

Hooker has been the team captain for the Australian athletics team at several major events including the 2009 World Championships in Berlin, the 2010 Commonwealth Games in Delhi, and the 2012 Olympic Games in London. In 2009 and 2010, he held all available titles including Olympic, world, world indoor titles, Continental Cup, and Commonwealth Games.

Personal Life

Hooker's family has a rich history in athletics. His mother Erica competed in the long jump at the 1972 Olympic Games in Munich. His father Bill was a four-time national title holder who represented Australia in various track events. His wife Ekaterina is a Russian international 800m runner.

New Directions

After failing to clear a height at the 2012 Olympics in London, Hooker decided to part ways with long-time coach Alex Parnov. He moved to Phoenix with his family and planned to reduce his training time for a year. This move was aimed at regaining his confidence which had been affected by an ongoing knee problem.

Training Innovations

Hooker set up an indoor training facility at the old Midland Railway Yards in Perth with help from his sponsor and the West Australian government. This facility includes a 100m runway with pits at each end and adjustable platforms to alter jump conditions. A video-feedback system records his jumps for analysis.

Sporting Philosophy

Hooker's sporting philosophy is simple: "There's no such thing as failure. It's all part of the journey." This mindset has helped him navigate through various challenges and injuries throughout his career.

Other Interests

Apart from pole vaulting, Hooker is also an amateur sprinter. He competed in the 2010 Stawell Gift race in Western Victoria, Australia. The race is run on grass over 120 metres up a slight gradient.

Steve Hooker's journey in athletics is marked by significant achievements and challenges. His dedication to the sport and innovative training methods have made him a notable figure in pole vaulting.