Fostering growth and recognising a sporting great

Thu, Oct 24, 2019, 2:32 AM
Waratahs Media
by Waratahs Media

As well as paying tribute to a great of the game, the Len Diett Shield is developing the next generation of rugby players on the Far North Coast.

The inaugural Len Diett attracted 10 teams ranging from Terranora to Maclean (north to south) and Ballina to Casino (east to west).

Former NSW Waratahs Coach Chris Hickey played a pivotal role getting the competition off the ground.

Hickey said the Len Diett was helping clubs forge stronger relationships with their local high school.

“We’re trying to establish that relationship through support for those schools through assistance through coaching, supply of equipment or offering the club grounds as a playing venue for those schools,” Hickey said.

Named after dual international and Ballina local Diett, the shield pays tribute to a man who was instrumental in establishing colt’s rugby on the far north coast.

“A lot of what (Len) did fostered the game at that youth level.

“When we were looking at this competition it seemed very appropriate the shield be named in his honour and in his recognition for what he did (for rugby) in the far north coast,” Hickey said.

Leader of Sport at Xavier Catholic College Pat Kennedy, said the competition was providing dividends to the school’s rugby program.

“There’s the chance to collaborate, and there’s a chance there to talk about – how does the club play, how does the school play, what can we do, how can we learn from each other. There’s a chance to combine our coaching.

The inaugural final hosted at Ballina Rugby Club saw St John’s College Woodlawn defeat Xavier Catholic College 24-12.

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