The Vetlife Rugby Fun Day proved a resounding success on Saturday, with more than 450 junior players enjoying games of rugby, a free sausage sizzle, prize-giving and a chance to meet Highlanders first five-eighth Hayden Parker.
Parker officiated several games and said he enjoyed his visit to Oamaru in fine weather.
“It was a good day,” he said.
“I refereed a couple of games. It was good. There were some big boys out there. It was nice weather and good to visit Oamaru.
“It was where I started. I was in those kids’ shoes when I was a young fella and hopefully it put a few smiles on their faces and I signed a few autographs.”
North Otago Rugby Union ceo Colin Jackson said he was pleased with the day and Parker’s positive influence on the youngsters.
“It was a stunning success,” he said.
“Hayden Parker was brilliant. It was so good because he’s come through the JAB himself so he had a lot of empathy for the kids and every child went away with a gift bag.”
By JAMES FORD
PHOTO: CAROL EDWARDS – Highlanders first five-eighth Hayden Parker with junior players from Excelsior and Athletic Marist on Saturday.
