FAMILY AFFAIR
Father and sons star in touch team
Corey Governor is hoping to make the most of his chance to play alongside his two sons after the Manawatu¯ touch team was resurrected for the Touch New Zealand Nationals on Friday.
The region has not fielded an open men’s side in six years, but there was a renewed push for the team to return to ensure talented players were not lost to the region.
Player-coach Corey Governor said it will be an extra special weekend for him, with both his sons, Jahlon and Kalos, in the side as well.
He played next to Jahlon during last year’s Manawatu¯ club league season with Kia Ora.
The 18-year-old, who was signed to the Canberra Raiders’ under-18 squad last year, is back in New Zealand this year after his Australia team amalgamated with another and his contract was scrapped.
He is expected to be called back next year.
Kalos, 16, is another off the Governor production line, with an elusive step.
Corey Governor said it was great for them all to be in the side as they all push each other.
He was pleased to be involved in a Manawatu¯ representative touch team again.
‘‘It is a long time coming,’’ he said. ‘‘There was nothing when [players] get past under-18. But there is a pathway now.
‘‘Now that we have brought this back, hopefully that leads to better things – maybe an under-20s side next year and a women’s team.’’
Governor also managed to pull off a star recruit for the team in former New Zealand Sevens representative Beaudein Waaka, as a draft player.
‘‘He played for Manawatu¯ the last time we had a team and made the finals six years ago,’’ he said.
Waaka was a replacement for Whitiaua Black, who had to pull out due to personal commitments.
Simon Binstead will captain the side, while Michael Coker is another to watch.
‘‘There is a good balance between experience and youth there,’’ Governor said.
‘‘This year, I am hoping top four. But a lot of our boys are chasing higher honours as well with the New Zealand team. There are a few of the boys who have been approached already so if they perform they could have a chance for the world cup in Malaysia next year.’’
Nationals get under way on Friday and wrap up on Sunday.