He is the champion . . . of the South
MUCH has already been written about Highlanders’ rugby team champion Aaron Smith.
And rightly so.
He played 184 Super Rugby matches for the team and was pivotal to them and their fortunes for a decade.
His farewell from Forsyth Barr Stadium last Friday night against the Queensland Reds capped his brilliant Highlanders’ career.
As usual, he played with skill, intense competitiveness and composure.
The swift, accurate pass, the speed to the breakdown and the willingness to defend with purpose were all there.
The opportunity for those familiar and penetrating darting runs did not, on this occasion arise, nor did the tries from smart support lines and nippy acceleration.
Imagine the pressure he was under.
The crowd had cheered when the reading of the team lists reached number 9, and he had come on to the field before the kickoff with his two small sons in his arms.
Because stars thrive on stress and on the big stage it was no surprise to see Smith yet again playing at his consistently high level.
After 66 effective minutes, it was time to be subbed off and make way for his apprentice, the talented Folau Fakatava. We know what then happened. Fakatava threw a dummy and scooted to the line to win the match in the last minute.
The Highlanders stayed alive as a chance to make the Super Rugby quarterfinals, even after a mediocre season.
Smith and the crowd’s storybook Forsyth Barr finale for the Highlanders was complete.
Societies and communities down the ages and across the world need their heroes, their gladiators, their special personalities be those in sport, the arts or wherever.
They lift spirits, they provide inspiration and they help focus community togetherness.
Aaron Smith has helped achieve that for anyone with any interest in rugby in the South.
Who could forget the Super Rugby triumph of 2015 when the team of battlers, with only a smattering of stars, beat the odds and the expectations?
Smith, now 34, is famous for his meticulous preparation before games and his detailed attention to keeping fit and strong. No doubt, plus some good fortune, it has helped keep him free from serious injury. This also sets a fine example for his team mates.
The man, who was once considered too small to be a top rugby player, is now widely considered the best All Black halfback yet.
If anything, he seems to keep getting better as he ages.
The Feilding hairdresser brought to Dunedin by coach Jamie Joseph will leave for a stint in Japan as an undisputed champion of the South.
We wish him and his family well. He will leave behind strong influences, a remarkable legacy, and many fine memories.
Of course, there remains one more chance ‘‘under the roof’’ in Dunedin to appreciate his attitude, athleticism and aptitude
Barring unforeseen mishap, he will be one of the first names confirmed for the All Blacks test against the Wallabies at Forsyth Barr Stadium on August 5.
And rightly so.
Smith has won 117 caps for New Zealand and is the mostcapped All Blacks back.
Then it will be off to the World Cup in France and, who knows, perhaps another fairy tale finish.