TRIBUTES A fine player and a true gentleman
HE PLAYED against the All Blacks, took to the field for Cardiff 75 times and has been remembered as a “great Rhondda rugby man”.
Tributes have been paid to Treorchy RFC chairman Neil Hutchings following his death last week at the age of 62.
During his rugby career the talented centre played for Cardiff between 1979 and 1982, as well as playing for Aberavon and the Welsh B side.
It was during his time at Aberavon that he took on the All Blacks in 1978 as part of the Barbarians team.
During his rugby career the Welshman went on to become the first team captain of Treorchy RFC, before working his way to the position of club chairman and WRU representative.
At his time at the Treorchy Zebras, the club celebrated some of its greatest achievements chronicled in documentary The marked its success.
Following his death countless tributes have been paid to the dedicated family man by rugby clubs across South Wales.
Treorchy RFC said: “We are very sad to report that former club captain and chairman, Neil Hutchings, has passed away.
“Neil gave many years of service to Treorchy RFC and played a big part in the history of our club.
“He will be missed by many and our thoughts are with his family at this sad time.”
The Rhondda Schools Rugby (RSR) initiative said: “RSR would like to acknowledge the passing of a great Rhondda rugby man.
“Not only a fine player, Neil was to the Dream, date – BBC which instrumental in Rhondda rugby as a captain and chairman of his beloved Treorchy Zebras.
“Above all, he was a gentleman, dedicated to his family – RIP Neil.”
A spokesperson for Cardiff RFC said: “Our thoughts are with all at Treorchy Zebras and Neil’s family and friends. Condolences from all at Cardiff RFC.”
Writing on Twitter, rugby journalist Peter Jackson added: “I close my eyes and see Neil Hutchings running hard in midfield for the Wizards at the Talbot Athletic Ground back in the late ’70s.
“One of the friendliest players on the circuit then, Wales B centre.”
The funeral will be held at 2.30pm on August 24 at St Peter’s Church, followed by refreshments at the Treorchy Zebras.