Rugby Supports One of Its Own

Sports administrators are frequently easy targets for the mistakes they make that seem obvious to those involved with sport, however often the good things that they do go unheralded. We do try on the show to highlight the good that administrators and individuals do through the Spandau Ballet award each week.

At this point in time we would like to acknowledge Rugby WA.

Just before the end of the Pindan Premier League season Perth – Bayswater coach John Taylor was diagnosed with cancer. John has been an integral part of the rugby coverage on 990am Information Radio, having worked for the station during the now defunct Australian Rugby Championship, Super Rugby and numerous Test matches in Perth.

John played for Waikato and so is an unashamed Chiefs supporter. He played against the British and Irish Lions in his heyday, and also played in France, long before there was money in the game. He played because he loved and still loves rugby. John has coached over 500 games and his knowledge of the game is second to none.

Unfortunately for John and his family the Insurance company that he had income protection cover with have reneged on paying him what he thought he was covered for. The reasons for this are still being contested. (This writer having had the same issue happen with a Life Assurance Policy when diagnosed with cancer, was not surprised to hear this news).

The great thing was when Rugby WA heard what had happened they made a swift decision to support one of their one; as that is what sport, especially rugby is all about, supporting your mates. At last weekend’s Pindan Premier League Grand Final between Cottesloe and victors UWA, Rugby WA donated all of the money raised from the car park to John and his family.

It is times like these that one truly understands the magic that is being involved in sport and how there is no place for selfishness. The bind that sport creates cannot be broken. Hats off to all concerned and lets all pray for John’s quick recovery.