Sir Brian Lochore has received the SPARC Leadership Award at the Halberg sports awards in recognition of his outstanding contribution to New Zealand sport both on the field, and for his roles in coaching and sports administration.
The award is given annually by SPARC to one outstanding sportsperson whose service to
sport inspires New Zealanders with a vision, shows integrity and provides leadership which is effective, focused and inspiring.
"I'm totally humbled by this honour," Lochore said.
"It's one of those things you never expect when you're involved in sport and doing something you enjoy, and enjoy being with the people involved in whatever game you're playing."
SPARC chairman John Wells said Lochore personified what it meant to be a great leader.
"Sir Brian Lochore has played, captained and coached at elite level and has also given back to the community by sharing his knowledge and experience at grass roots level," Mr Wells said.
"SPARC is delighted to acknowledge Sir Brian for all he has done and continues to do within the sector. He is a truly great leader and an inspiration to us all."
Sir Brian Lochore was an All Black loose forward from 1963 to 1971 and one of New Zealand's most successful captains from 1966 to 1970.
He coached the Wairarapa-Bush team to first division and then took over the reigns as coach of the All Blacks in 1985. In 1987, he coached the All Blacks to victory in the inaugural Rugby World Cup.
Then in 1995, he was appointed campaign manager for the All Blacks' World Cup bid that year.
Lochore is also a former chairman of the Hillary Commission and a former board member of the New Zealand Sports Foundation. Honoured with an OBE in 1970, he was knighted in 1999. He is a trustee of the Halberg Trust.
