He has been a member of Rangiora Keelan Memorial Shield-winning TVC teams in NPEC club rugby and scored arguably the Sky Blues’ most famous try against Whanganui in the 2012 Meads Cup (Heartland top four) final.
Bartlett’s five-pointer, scored in the right corner at Whakarua Park, sealed a comeback win for the ages —29-27 — after the Coast trailed 27-3 at halftime.
Then-NPEC captain Rua Tipoki spoke of Bartlett in glowing terms.
“I think he’s been an amazing servant to the Coast. During my time he often travelled the furthest of anyone — coming from East Cape but always with a smile.
“Through the highs, lows and hard times, he’s always been willing to don the Sky Blue (jersey).
Bartlett’s head coach of the previous three years, ex-All Black Hosea Gear, said: “Verds is the epitome of a true NPEC Cowboy — selfless, hardworking, family man, committed.
“We know how hard it is for this team to get together every year and to do it 100 times is amazing.
“He’s been through everything with this team — from winning championships to not winning anything for eight years straight.
“There wouldn’t be too many people, if any, that have experienced everything that Verds has. And to do it every time with a smile on his face, trying hard, just goes to show the man he is.
“I couldn’t be more proud of Verdon and I’m sure the whole iwi will join me in reflection and gratefulness for all that he has given to us.”
A father of three — Eraihia, 16, Te Haika, 13, and Oheta, 1 — Bartlett would not be able to do what he loves without the support of partner Maani Waititi and his family, who share the same passion and joy for TVC and Coast rugby.
The chorus will ring around an appreciative Whakarua Park tomorrow when he takes the field.
As to how the man of the hour, a deceptive and tricky utility back, feels about it all:
“Playing for Ngāti Porou East Coast means a lot to me. I know my nan would be smiling down on us.
I’d just like to say to everyone that’s been a part of my journey in some way . . . thank you.”
