Tom Redfern- President, Wellington Redbacks RUFC

What a year! We’re Saving the best to last. On behalf of Wellington Redbacks rugby club, I’d like to start by thanking all involved to make the year that was. Firstly, OilsPlus for being the major sponsor of our competition, then to the CWRU board for all their hard work and commitment to make and run a competition for people to be involved in.

A special mention must go towards Jarrod Simpson Brett Cooper and Nathan Pearce for their effort this year, as a first-time president of the Wellington rugby club the help and commitment they’ve both shown to me has been fantastic and really helped make my job a lot easier.

Also, a special thanks to a job no one wants, match officials. Without the commitment and dedication to the love of rugby that these people have, we wouldn’t be playing the game at all, no matter the result on the day these people should always be respected and thanked for their tireless efforts.

I’d also like to take this opportunity to thank the Wellington rugby club committee. Just like our playing group our board is very young but have big hearts and only want the best for all involved. We have all worked so well together and everyone helps each other out, no one is above anyone which is fantastic, and the teamwork makes the dream work.

As a club we appointed Keiran Brien to be captain/coach with the assistance of his father Neale Brien, we were also lucky to have Pip Randell come on board and help out, the knowledge and experience of rugby between these 3 fellas is something wellington should be very proud of to have leading our mighty redbacks. Would like to thank our sponsors and to our supporters, without them it’s a dull day at the footy and this year has been fantastic to see some of the biggest crowds we’ve seen for a long time cheering both our men’s and women’s teams on week in week out.

Lastly to Coolah, congratulations on the tremendous year you have had. It’s always a tough day at the office to line up against such a well drilled and fit squad like they are, but the best part about them guys, is its always a good physical but respectful encounter. Tight score lines and some good hard ball running always makes for a good game of rugby.

May the best team win, and as always be respectful and thankful.

Go the Mighty Redbacks!

Tom Redfern

President

Wellington Rugby Union Club