Tihei: Proud Ross Shield moment for parents of youngest player

The Hastings West Ross Shield team.

The Ross Shield competition is one of the longest-running rugby competitions in New Zealand and is the pinnacle of primary school rugby in Hawke's Bay.

The competition started more than 120 years ago by Napier businessman and keen sports enthusiast JA Ross.

It has so much history that young players feel it an honour and a privilege to get onto a Ross Shield team. You need to have certain stamina and be a certain weight among other things to get in. The competition involves teams from Wairoa, Napier, Hastings East, Hastings West, Central Hawke's Bay and Dannevirke.

The 2021 Ross Shield Tournament was held last week from October 4 to 8 and was hosted by Hastings at the Ellwood Rd rugby fields. Teams have been outstanding in their uniforms, proudly representing their teams.

All of the boys looked stunning and stood out as team leaders with potential. Among the Hastings West team is young Darrell Rutherford Reid. This particular team has defended the Ross Shield for the past three years.

"It's a pretty big deal for our boy as he is the youngest in the team. It is uncommon for a Year 6 to make a Ross Shield team as it is more known for intermediate children Year 7-8," says mum Natalie Reid.

"We are stoked for him and his achievement. He's also the first student from Bridge Pa School to make it into the team," Natalie said.

Darrell comes from a long line of rugby players. He follows in the footsteps of his father Everard Reid, his grandfather the late Darrell Reid and his great grandfather, All Black legend Sana Torium Reid.

Last weekend the Hastings West Team had photos of their team at each of the children's kura which was absolutely stunning. Darrell was also able to have a picture taken in front of Mangaroa Marae.

This is definitely a proud moment for parents of all of these children.

In a Facebook post, Darrell's Natalie acknowledged her son for his determination and drive for rugby and she also acknowledged the village who helped raise their son and helped him achieve his goals thus far.

We are sure she speaks for all of the children and their parents. There are some wonderful people in our communities who make these opportunities happen for our children, our future sporting achievers.