Hayden Parker has seen and done many things in his professional career: played Super Rugby for the Highlanders and Sunwolves, represented Otago, won a world title with the New Zealand Colts, kicked a thousand goals at some ungodly success rate, and showed real courage to battle through some major injuries.
But he is not sure anything will ever beat winning a North Otago title with his beloved hometown club.
Parker, granted clearance to play by Japanese club Kobelco Steelers, was a class above as he led Kurow to a 24-13 win over Valley in the Citizens Shield final on Saturday.
Among the family members and friends watching the nuggety first five-eighth shine was his father, Dave, a member of the last Kurow team to have won the shield in 1982.
‘‘That’s a pretty sweet feeling, really,’’ Parker said after the final.
‘‘My old man was in the team that won it 39 years ago. I think he tried to play openside flanker, but at 80kg, that certainly wasn’t going to work for me.
‘‘Winning a competition for my hometown team — that’s something you dream about. It’s something a bit special. I’m lost for words, really — just absolutely pumped.’’
Parker (30) grew up in Kurow before heading to Otago Boys’ High School then embarking on an underrated professional career.
He had always hoped to don the red jersey at some stage and came close last year when the Japanese league was canned due to Covid, but he blew a shoulder out in a pre-season game.
‘‘I’ve been away from Kurow for quite a long time but always followed them closely,’’ he said.
‘‘They’ve had some tough times over the years but we’ve now got a bunch of really gutsy footballers.
‘‘There’s a lot of character in this team. I’m so bloody proud of them.’’
Parker was delighted to play alongside his cousin, Josh Reid, the Kurow captain and openside flanker.
He has played in front of huge crowds at some of the world’s great rugby venues but said it was special to succeed for his home supporters.
‘‘The buzz around the town during the week was something else. You drive from Kurow to Oamaru and there are signs all the way down the road.
‘‘It means a lot to the boys and to the community.’’
Parker will head back to Japan in late September to prepare for another season.
