JAB chairman thanks all involved with Ross Shield

Dannevirke Ross Shield captain Tawera Rautahi leading his team onto Rugby Park

The Scanpower Dannevirke Ross Shield rugby team did our town proud and reflected the fantastic atmosphere which has been the key to primary school rugby in our district all season, Quinney Olsen, chairman of Dannevirke JAB, says.

But the tournament couldn't have been a success without the superb sponsors.

"Those sponsors and our Ross Shield committee deserve a big thank you for all their hard work," Olsen said.

"Although it's hard to single out individuals, Simon Curran and Beks Hewitt did a great job, as did all the volunteers, match officials and helpers throughout the week of the tournament along with all those businesses who put together window displays. Thanks to those who opened up their homes to billet the rugby players and Heinz Wattie's and Ngati Kahungunu Iwi Incorporated for sponsoring the big breakfast."

Five out-of-town teams - Hastings West, Hastings East, Napier, Wairoa and Central Hawke's Bay - joined the Scanpower Dannevirke Ross Shield team on Rugby Park, making it a mecca for hundreds of supporters throughout the week-long tournament.

"To have 2600 through the gates of the park on the final day of the tournament was amazing," Olsen said.

"One chap commented to me it was hard to get a park and there were no seats in the stand that Saturday. So thanks everyone for a great week.

"Gerard McKay and his coaching staff did a professional job and were great with our boys and our supporters from Dannevirke and districts, the Ruahine area, Puketoi, Norsewood and Ormondville districts."

Olsen said the only sour note was the vandalism at Rugby Park the night before play began.

"People had to miss the parade of teams down High St to stay behind and clean up before players and their supporters arrived," he said.

"I'm pleased Dannevirke Police have made a break-through and identified the culprits. Thank you senior constable Wayne Churchouse for your dedication."