Rogers started playing hockey in 1974 at Patutahi School. He moved on to Gisborne Boys’ High School and made the second 11 in 1976 and first 11 in 1977 and 1978.
When he left school, Rogers took up an apprenticeship with the New Zealand Post Office and continued his hockey, playing for High School Old Boys, then Caledonia, before moving to Lytton Old Boys.
“I’m still loving it and I plan to keep playing as long as I can.”
He started out in the field but has spent most of his years in goal.
“You could say I worked my way to the back.”
Throughout his playing years, Rogers was selected for various Poverty Bay representative teams including the senior men’s representative side.
He also took on the role of manager of the u21s.
“Lately I have been doing a few other things in hockey and go away to tournaments as a technical official.
“Hopefully that will keep me in the game I love for many years after I finally stop actually playing.”
The life membership citation details the positions he has held in the association — registrar and chairman — his roles on several sub-committees and as a rep selector.
It also details his many coaching and umpiring contributions over the years.
He upskilled himself in coaching, completing the Hockey NZ level 1 theory officiating course.
“I am looking at more practical work to finalise it.”
The citation says: “Richard gives his time freely to help the association with any electrical requirements and any umpiring and general duties that he can help with.
“He has been a keen supporter of his children Kacey and Ethan, and wife Sharyn, throughout their playing years.”
And Poverty Bay hockey can expect his support for years to come.
