Veteran forward still to the fore at Marist Albion
Rowan O’Gorman has created a dilemma for himself and his club Marist-Albion.
After years of loyal service, the club stalwart had moved into the coaching ranks but a crisis in the hooking department has seen him make a stunning comeback to Canterbury Metro Rugby Division One.
After only two games back O’Gorman, 33, is close to the top of the leaderboard of the Hawkins Medal competition for the Most Valuable Player. Every week independent observers award three, two and one point respectively to the best three players at each match in the race for the Hawkins Medal.
Despite giving away a half time lead against High School Old Boys last weekend, O’Gorman was again in the spotlight with this strong play on and off the ball.
Despite being a natural blindside flanker, the Marist hooker again showed his nose for the try line with his third try in two games. Last week, O’Gorman had already dotted down twice against Burnside.
‘‘He can sniff out a try particularly well,’’ said coach Adrian Kennedy. ‘‘You can’t beat experience and Rowan is a player with a great rugby nous.’’
Kennedy and fellow coach Kelly Hansen enjoy having O’Gorman back but are aware that the 2011 Metro Player of the Year also has a huge commitment looking after club’s Colts team.
‘‘We identified that our Colts needed extra resources and with Rowan in charge they have made great progress, which we don’t want to jeopardise. So now we need to have a good look if it is logistically possibly for him to coach the Colts and also attend our trainings and games.’’
Kennedy said an old hand like O’Gorman is invaluable in the Metro competition where numerous new talents have grabbed the spotlight.
‘‘Young lions eat old lions,’’ says Kennedy, adding that the new breed has pushed the competition to levels he has not seen before.
‘‘To be honest, I think it’s now probably the strongest amateur club competition in the world.’’