ON THE BALL: Geoff Simes (left) and Hayden Hepburn, two Lotto Sportmakers both rewarded recently for their work in rugby. PICTURE: KAREN HUGHES
ON THE BALL: Geoff Simes (left) and Hayden Hepburn, two Lotto Sportmakers both rewarded recently for their work in rugby. PICTURE: KAREN HUGHES
"Rugby was the winner on the day." It may be a cliché, but it's true in the November "Thank a Sportmaker" draw, with the winners both being nominated for their volunteer work in rugby. Hayden Hepburn has been a sport volunteer for 14 years across a wide range of codes andin four different secondary schools. He continues his volunteer contribution alongside his busy role as head of sport at Cullinane College, and was recently nominated for his volunteer work with Cullinane College rugby. Hayden's nomination was praising of his volunteer efforts: "He works tirelessly to provide sporting opportunities for students outside his normal role; administration, managing, coaching, strength and conditioning, rehabilitation, life balance, mentoring. He has made a significant impact to the college in such a short time." Hayden is modest about his nomination and said achieving impact is made easier by being in a smaller school. Geoff Simes coached his first primary school rugby team 30 years ago, as a teacher's college student at Massey University. He has continued his coaching at a variety of levels, including leading the Wanganui Under-16s at one point, and has just finished a season coaching Wanganui Collegiate's Under-15 team. As principal of Durie Hill School, Geoff sees the benefits of adults volunteering in sport, and is keen to encourage the younger generation to get on board the Lotto Sportmaker campaign and nominate volunteers. Hayden and Geoff have each won $500 worth of sports gear and apparel, courtesy of the Lotto Volunteer Foundation and Sport New Zealand. Sport Wanganui congratulates Hayden and Geoff, and invites nominations for other sport makers like them. Simply send a sport maker an electronic thank-you card via the Sport Wanganui website. Anyone of any age can send a card, and to as many sport makers as they wish, from any area of sport volunteering. Visit www.sportwanganui.co.nz
