Editorial: Boots still important part of kit

Mark Story.

Most footy players in this country will remember their first pair of boots.

Mine were my father's. Resembling scarred chunks of charcoal (and that colour) they were high-cuts, genuine leather, sturdy but supple as only well-worn leather is.

There was something symbolic on the Friday night before games, where the ritual filing of sprigs was played out by young men across God's Own. Last Saturday's dry mud was chipped away, but polishing was banned as it wasn't cool to run onto the paddock sporting a shiny pair.

Jerseys came and went, but boots defined you.

This was clearly evidenced when former All Black great Christian Cullen handed his boots to his father after playing his last game in New Zealand for the Wellington Lions in 2003.

Today, with cheaper boots on the market, I'm guessing hereditary pairs like mine aren't as common as they were.

However, they're still the most expensive item in a young player's kit.

It's why seeing the boots roll in for Hawke's Bay Today's Bring Yer Boots campaign is a heartening sight.

Each year (this is the third) we've been astounded at the generosity of those who donate to our boot bank. Most are in good nick, many are great and some are brand new.

Drop off points are at our newspaper's offices in Napier, Hastings, Waipukurau and Dannevirke. Those keen to donate in Wairoa can hand them in at the Wairoa Community Centre.

The cut-off date is April 29. We'll then hand them over to Sport Hawke's Bay which will distribute them to those in need.

So go on, those who have hung up your boots, bring them in and have them go another round.