Fruean Shield players show energy and skill
The Robbie Fruean Shield may be in its fifth year, but the man himself is still humbled by the occasion.
Fruean was the guest of honour as schools from Porirua East and Titahi Bay North played a round-robin rugby tournament at Porirua Park last Thursday.
Rangikura School won a cracking final, beating Cannons Creek School 20-10. Holy Family School edged Glenview School 15-10 in the plate final.
Fruean – who will continue his Super Rugby career with the Crusaders next season – attends each year.
The Glenview School and Porirua College old boy said watching players from his old stomping ground was a joy.
‘‘It’s an honour to see these guys playing for something that’s become very close to my heart,’’ he said.
‘‘The competition seems to be growing and I still get a buzz from coming along.’’
Fruean had only had a week off rugby after his busy ITM Cup campaign with Hawke’s Bay, and spent it catching up with family and friends in Porirua.
He said he was happy to be back in Crusaders colours, after ‘‘a bit of a rocky road’’ recently.
Shield organiser Duncan Murray said eight schools and 160 children took part.