An emotional journey to New Zealand for dad’s funeral
Canada’s rugby coach admits it was ‘a tough old trip’
Two quarantines and a 22,550kilometre round-trip to New Zealand. Canada rugby coach Kingsley Jones has been on an emotional journey of late.
Just getting the green light to attend his father’s funeral required an exemption from the New Zealand government, with borders closed due to COVID-19.
Phil Kingsley Jones died Sept. 15 in Auckland at the age of 72.
“It was a tough old trip,” said his son, who was reunited with his two sisters and their extended families in New Zealand.
Jones made it back to Canada last Wednesday, after a 17-hour layover in Los Angeles. Now quarantining at home on Vancouver Island, he is preparing for a November high-performance camp — from his bedroom and home office.
“Much happier to be back with my family, although I can’t give any of them a cuddle,” said the former Wales captain.
Phil Kingsley Jones lived many lives.
To most, he will be remembered as the manager behind the late All Blacks legend Jonah Lomu. He also coached Tonga, was well-connected in New Zealand rugby and helped launch the career of more than afew players with Pacific Island connections.
Born in Wales, he was a coal miner and factory worker who played club rugby for Ebbw Vale and Abertillery in the ’70s. After winning seaside resort chain Butlin’s “Search for a Star” in 1977 and appearing on the British TV talent show “New Faces,” he launched a new career as a stand-up comedian.
He moved to New Zealand in 1983, returning to rugby and coaching.
Six years later, his life change after being introduced to a 14year-old Lomu.
“Jonah was my introduction to this world (as manager) and I was with him right through his career, “Kingsley Jones told the Guardian in 2005. “It was his idea for me to represent him — he trusted me and I suppose show business had made me a little streetwise.”
His 2011 autobiography was titled “Kingsley Jones. How Did I Manage That?”
“Quite a remarkable life, really,” said Jones. “He filled it, that’s for sure.”
Kingsley Jones’ funeral was special with former All Blacks captain Kieran Read and others performing the haka in his honour at the Counties Manukau Stadium in Pukekohe.
“You couldn’t ask for a better sendoff,” said Jones.
After the service, mourners gathered in the Phil Kingsley Jones Room inside the grandstand. Many wanted to show their appreciation.
“Lots of positives,” said Jones. “It’s unfortunate we have to wait until we die before all those things are recognized, for everybody really. Not just my Dad.”
“Much happier to be back with my family, although I can’t give any of them a cuddle.”
KINGSLEY JONES CANADA’S RUGBY COACH