Skills impress Fruean

One of Porirua’s most popular rugby players was present to hand out the trophy that bears his name last week, as organisers prepare to widen the tournament’s scope.

The Robbie Fruean Trophy is in its third year, contested by Holy Family, Windley, Glenview and Cannons Creek schools. After a round-robin format, finals are held at Holy Family, with parents and supporters along to enjoy the spectacle.

After two years of Holy Family dominance, Windley won this year’s final, last Thursday, after a commanding performance over Cannons Creek. Ropati So’oalo, Christian Chongnee and Esene Moananu had big games, although their team effort ultimately won the day.

Fruean gave out player-of-the-day awards, signed dozens of autographs and posed for many pictures. He flew up specially for the event, leaving the next morning to resume preseason training with the Crusaders.

‘‘I try to get back every month to see my parents, but I am loving it down there [ in Christchurch], they’ve really embraced me. It’s great to come to Porirua and I love seeing these kids play, they have some insane skills.

‘‘I’m really happy to support this event, even though I’m still trying to get used to having a trophy named after me.’’

Holy Family School principal Karl Vasau said the tournament was likely to expand next year.

‘‘We’ve got a great thing going here but we thought it would be fair to have other schools in Porirua competing as well.’’

Steamroller: Windley School’s Esene Moananu was at his blockbusting best, often attracting a swarm of opposition Cannons Creek players determined to bring him down.