My Account
Despite a mixed result in play, Silverdale Rugby Club’s under 12 team was the standout winner for sportsmanship at the Junior Rugby Festival in Taupō last month.
The team received the Best and Fairest Team Award, and Nate Bayer was named Best and Fairest Player for walking away from a fight.
More than 100 teams played in the tournament, which ran from September 19 to 22.
Recalling the incident, Nate says the fight happened after he pulled an opposing player out of the ruck.
“He didn’t like that very much, so he started punching me,” Nate says.
Nate took several punches to the head.
Junior Rugby Festival founder, Tyrone Campbell, made a special trip to the Silverdale Rugby Club on Wednesday September 25 to present Nate and the team with their awards.
“We don’t normally drive around after the event, but this is a special occasion,” Tyrone said at the prizegiving.
“You were noticed by event organisers, referees and other teams for the respectful way you conducted yourselves. I’d like to thank your parents, managers and coaches for instilling such good behaviour and culture amongst your team.”
