PHOTO: DEBBIE FAHEY
Pioneer Rugby Club women’s team manager Debbie Smith receives a Rugby Southland senior volunteer of the year award from life member Donald Hay.
Smith was manager for the Pioneer women’s, Southland under-18 girls, and country women’s teams.
She also helped with the Southland Hinds team when needed.
It was the first time the award had been given out, she said.
"It’s quite nice to be recognised."
She enjoyed giving back to the various teams her daughter Abby, 17, was involved in.
"I like being able to know the girls’ needs are met.
"Having a female manager is good."
She was at the games anyway and it had been good learning new skills.
"It was pretty busy.
"There’s a lot to take in."
