Definition
Benoît Lecouls is a French former professional rugby union player who played primarily as a hooker.
Overview
Born on 31 July 1972 in Agen, France, Lecouls began his senior career with USA Perpignan. He later joined Biarritz Olympique, where he contributed to the club’s Top 14 championship victories in 2002 and 2005. Subsequent moves saw him represent Stade Francais, winning another Top 14 title in 2007, before returning to Perpignan to conclude his playing career. Internationally, Lecouls earned twelve caps for the French national team between 1999 and 2004 and was part of the squad for the 1999 Rugby World Cup. He retired from professional rugby in the early 2010s.
Etymology/Origin
- Benoît is a French masculine given name derived from the Latin Benedictus, meaning “blessed.”
- Lecouls is a French surname of Occitan origin; its precise meaning is not definitively documented, but it is likely a regional variant related to geographical or occupational identifiers.
Characteristics
- Position: Hooker, responsible for throwing the ball in line‑outs and anchoring the front row in scrums.
- Playing style: Recognised for robust scrummaging, accurate line‑out throws, high work rate around the field, and leadership within the forward pack.
- Physical profile: Typically listed at around 1.80 m (5 ft 11 in) in height and approximately 105 kg (231 lb) in weight during his active years.
Related Topics
- Rugby union
- Hooker (rugby union position)
- Top 14 (French professional rugby league)
- France national rugby union team
- USA Perpignan, Biarritz Olympique, Stade Francais (clubs for which he played)