PHOTO: TRU Board member Tony Woodall with Shane Drummond
At the 12th Tasman RU AGM, long time rugby supporter at all levels, Shane Drummond, was made the third TRU Life member joining Max Spence and Kieran Keane in that honorary position.
I sat down this week for a Chat with ‘Drummy’ to get a fix on how he felt about this honour, and more.
Tasman RU making gains on and off the field
Richie McCaw delivers the right stuff to Brightwater
Congratulations on being elected the 3rd Life Member of the greatest provincial union in the greatest rugby playing nation in the world. What does this mean to you?
I see it as an acknowledgement for my contribution in establishing and maintaining this Union in the NZ provincial rugby competition.
What do you see as the role of a life member?
Being supportive, loyal and respectful.
The TRU Board now have the authority under the new constitution to elect a life member. How do you become a life member in the 21st century?
There must be a voluntary contribution after having a role with Tasman whether as a director, coach, player or employee.
Can you explain your role in the formation of NZ’s newest Union?
I’ve served as a Board member, advisor, mentor, President and benefactor.
Who was the key driver in the formation of the TRU?
Max Spence 1st, 2nd and 3rd.
Which Tasman player was your favourite? Why?
Kahn Fotuali'I (Mako # 20) at half back. He had great character, incredible vision and strength.
The biggest character?
Joey Wheeler
Best Coach?
Leon MacDonald
What is your biggest frustration with rugby in Tasman at present?
Growing sponsorship and revenue within the region. I would encourage more local businesses in Marlborough and Nelson to join the team. I want to assist the Union in securing a major national sponsor.
How are you going to ensure your son Mitchell signs for Tasman?
It is his choice and I will support his decision.
60 seconds with Shane...
Nickname: Drummy.
Tasman or Canterbury: Tasman.
Highlanders or Crusaders: Unfair question Tony, both equally.
Type of coffee: Cappuccino.
Steak, eggs and chips or meal at Nelson’s best restaurant: Steak, eggs and chips.
Best book read: Don’t read.
Favourite place: Nelson.
Greatest fear: Heights.
One thing you cannot live without: Family.
Proudest moment: Birth of our children.
Describe your wife Sarah: Best Mate.
Traits: Honesty, loyalty and efficiency.
Best job: Selling cars.
First car sold: Holden Sunbird.
Job if not selling cars: Working in rugby.
Finally, on behalf of the TRU board, staff, clubs and stakeholders congratulations Drummy on becoming the Union’s 3rd Life Member and the youngest!
This weekend's rugby features for you to enjoy are ...
NPD Tasman Trophy - 3pm
Stoke v Nelson - Greenmeadows; Kahurangi v Waimea Old Boys - Riwaka; Marist v Wanderers - Tahunanui; Mouter v East Coast - Awarua Park; Central v Renwick - Lansdowne Park.
Tasman Senior Women - 1.15pm
Waimea OB v Awatere - Jubilee Park; Wanderers v Marist - Brightwater Domain; Moutere v Motueka HS - Awarua Park.
Motorworld Marlborough Div 2 - 1.15pm
Awatere v Renwick - Seddon Domain; Central v Harlequins - Lansdowne Park; College Old Boys v Waitohi - MBC.
#FinzUp
Tony Lewis