Big surprise for coach

SURPRISE COACH: Whanganui Boxon coach Paki Ngaira (right) receives a certificate for $2000 worth of equipment from prop Gordon Karaitiana and Sport Whanganui CEO Danny Jonas.PHOTO/SUPPLIED

There was a big surprise at Thursday night training for the Whanganui Boxon's senior team coach Paki Ngaira, as prop Gordon Karaitiana had dobbed him in to the powers-that-be.

Ngaira was nominated by Karaitiana for the latest Lotto Thank a Sport Maker programme, and has been chosen as the winner to receive a sports gear prize worth $2000.

Organised by Lotto and Sport NZ, of which Sport Whanganui is the local representative, the programme is to reward and recognise unsung heroes on the sidelines.

Ten nominees receive the sports merchandise prize every quarter, and go into a draw to win the "ultimate team experience" for their group, which is decided online by public vote.

That experience is the chance to receive either elite coaching, a team trip, or a sponsored club day.

Ngaira said the money for sports gear was a welcome boost for Boxon.

"It will help with a lot for our team - we just run on the bare essentials.

"She's been like that for the last three years."

The small club sends its junior teams over to Palmerston North in two vans to compete in the Manawatu club league every Friday night, while the senior team car pools to games.

This year, Ngaira has had access to a solid squad of around 23-25 players, making it a hard choice to settle on a final 17 for each game day.

"It's good for the competition amongst the team. Every position is up for grabs."

Karaitiana, a rep player with the Central Vipers, said he nominated his coach because he can always be counted on to "save the day" in getting the club organised.

"He's always organising vans or transport to and from games as well as fundraising and ensuring the boys are all chipping in when needed.

"As an old head of the game in our town he's keen to pass down knowledge to the younger players coming through - to better their personal playing skills and abilities," Karaitiana said.

"He always gives his all to the game, from premiers all the way through to our juniors."

The five-team Manawatu Premier grade started this month, with the Boxon having picked up a default win over Kia Ora Warriors, beaten Ohakea Magpies 48-14, and lost to Linton Cobras 32-22.

Their next game is at home today on the Springvale Park fields against new team the Tainui Rhinos, kicking off at 2.30pm.

To vote for Ngaira to win the ultimate team experience, visit www.goodonyou.co.nz and vote between April 27 and May 11.