Rugby: Family-centred approach holds club in good stead

Greerton Marist club captain Steve Pearson has seen a thing or two in his 52 years with the club.

With a keen eye trained by experience, the stalwart - who joined the club's ranks as it gained affiliation to Bay of Plenty rugby in 1961 - sees significant changes to the local rugby landscape in the not too distant future.

"I think very shortly, to my mind, there will be super clubs," said Pearson.

"There are a lot of clubs that are traditional to their people and would like to keep it like that. But whether they survive or not, it's hard to say.

"I don't want to name clubs, but I think it's very easy to see which ones are doing well. We're lucky here because we are very strong with JMC rugby and when children are playing here and are successful, parents come and support the club."

He said it is that sense of community that sets his club apart.

"The club is more family orientated, which draws people to the club, though it hasn't always been that way.

" It's been a learning curve because you have to compete with other clubs who are very financial. We were always in the black, but not enough for us to support our players."

Convenience drew him to the club, which was originally based at Moreland Fox Park.

"I've got family who've played for Judea, Te Puna and Rangataua, but this is my family because I just lived across the paddock. I didn't see the point in going to play halfway across town. I love the club very much, there is no prejudice - we are all brothers and sisters here, so we are very lucky."

Pearson, who played his last game of rugby for the club aged 51, said Greerton Marist has a bright future.

At the back of the main field extra training fields will be built, while there are plans for a gymnasium and academy.