When Alf met Matthew

THE excellent all-rounder qualities of one Midhirst School student have won him the top regional primary school rugby award.
Matthew Kowalewski was overjoyed to find out he'd been awarded the prestigious Alf Bailey Trophy – the top honour for Taranaki primary-school rugby players.
"Each year, we award this trophy to one player in Taranaki who has not only been playing exceptionally well, but has consistently displayed excellent leadership qualities, has made every effort to improve his performance, played by the rules and been respected by his fellow players," said Derek Dingle, operations manager for Taranaki Rugby.
The award was presented to Matthew at an assembly at the school on Friday, and the Year 8 received it with both humility and confidence, addressing staff, guests and students with maturity.
"I'd just like to say thank you to my coaches, my teachers, Mr Biessel the principal and my team mates," said Matthew.
On his behalf, Derek then went on to thank Matthew's parents for all their hard work, dedication and motivation.
"Matthew has always pursued his passion for rugby," said Matthew's Dad, Barry.
"He's very dedicated to the game. Even when we were away in Canada on a trip earlier this year, he was worried he was missing out the Ross Brown tournament!"
Barry said that it is Matthew's determination that makes him such a strong player.
"Most people would get out of the way if they saw a big rugby player running towards them at full speed, but Matthew just doesn't back away."
"When you see him zeroing in on a tackle, you just know he's got it," said Stuart Biessel, principal of Midhirst School.
"And this great determination comes through in his academic work too. He produces excellent work, is diligent and a great team player.
"He really is a fine role model for other children in the school."
As well as this trophy, Matthew was also awarded Player of the Tournament during the Ross Brown Tournament. His fine play during this competition was noticed and along, with stellar performances in the U13 respresentative competition, the reason he was given the Alf Bailey Trophy.
Other winners of the trophy have been Taranaki Rugby legends, Graham Mourie and Andy Slater – both former captains of the Taranaki team.
Matthew will be heading off to Stratford High School next year where, no doubt he will continue to pursue both his rugby and academic ambitions.