Messam’s visit was part of Poverty Bay Rugby’s initiative to promote rugby in Gisborne.
Poverty Bay Rugby chief executive Josh Willoughby said that after the success of a similar visit last year by Keven Mealamu the union had identified that the community wanted more opportunities to meet professional players.
“We were looking for current or past players who are good role models and Liam fitted the bill,” Willoughby said.
“He’s been involved at the professional level for a very long time and you need to have good values and work ethic, and to hold yourself very well to do that.”
Messam returned to New Zealand from France when his season with Toulon was cut short due to the Covid-19 pandemic. He said that since then he’d seen first hand the struggle that clubs had faced as a result of the pandemic.
“Small unions are struggling.”
He saw the trip as an opportunity to grow the game where it mattered.
“This is where All Blacks come from. It starts at the grassroots.
“It’s been awesome seeing how many kids are down here . . . the skill level is amazing.”
Eventual winners, YMP Warriors u11s, had set-piece moves from the scrum and a strong backline which surprised Messam, who said he broke sweat having to keep up with play.
Young and old were obviously excited to see the former All Black, and they lined up for a picture and his signature as he made his way around the grounds watching games.
Messam has played alongside several famous Gisborne rugby players, including Rico and Hosea Gear, and James Broadhurst.
He said he was happy to do his part in continuing to grow the game and produce strong players from the region.
“Gisborne rugby is alive and strong.”
Messam arrived on Friday night from Hamilton, where he is based for the Mitre 10 Cup Waikato squad.
He spent his weekend watching games and enjoying all the region has to offer, which included a “true hearty feed”, something he said he hadn’t had for a while.
