This Saturday, rugby fans are in for a treat as Jason Rutledge, the legendary former Southland Stags player and the most capped Stag in history, will play his first game alongside his son, Gregor Rutledge, at ILT Centre Point Oreti Park. The special charity game kicks off at 2 pm and will feature the dynamic Rutledge duo on the field together for the first time.

The match will also see the return of another Southland rugby icon, Jamie Mackintosh, who will come off the bench to play his first game for Woodlands in many years. Mackintosh, a former Southland Stag and Woodlands captain, brings additional star power to the event.

This charity game is organized to raise funds for Ovarian Cancer NZ, a cause dear to the Woodlands Rugby Club and its members, particularly the Pine family, who have been directly affected by the disease. Special charity jerseys worn during the game will be auctioned off afterward to support the fundraising efforts.

Jason Rutledge shared his excitement about the unique opportunity to play alongside his son. "When Gregor started progressing in his rugby, I thought maybe there was a chance we could play together. When Gregor went away to university, I thought that chance might not come. It's worked out well with the uni break, and it will be pretty special," said Jason. "Also, being a fundraiser, it's going to be a special day."

For Gregor, this game marks a significant milestone in his rugby journey. "I think it will be pretty special," he said. "Scotty [Scott Eade, Rugby Southland Pathways Manager] has been instrumental in helping make this happen and get me down for the game."

Jason also reminisced about a touching moment from Gregor's childhood. "I remember Gregor having to make a poster about 'Whoppa' [Jamie Mackintosh] when he was 10-11 years old and messaging him when he was over in France, asking for info as a young kid. For him to now play alongside Jamie is a cool full-circle moment for Gregor," Jason noted.

Currently, Gregor balances his studies in Dunedin with his commitment to the Rugby Southland Academy. This dual focus on education and rugby development bodes well for his future in the sport. As for his dad Jason, he still enjoys going to training. "I still like going to trainings," Jason added. "If I wasn't going to training, I'd probably be inside sitting on the couch. Sabin loves coming along, and I could only be one injury away from finishing up. I never take it for granted."

The Rutledge family's participation, along with Jamie Mackintosh's return, underscores the strong community spirit and dedication to charity within the Woodlands Rugby Club. Saturday's game is set to be an emotional and inspiring event, celebrating both the legacy of Southland rugby and the importance of supporting crucial causes like Ovarian Cancer NZ. The community is encouraged to head to the game and place a bid on the night, with the club confident of raising a large sum of money for this special cause.

Article added: Friday 21 June 2024