They’re the first to arrive, the last to leave, and the heartbeat of our local rugby clubs. The ones who show up rain or shine, who put in the mahi behind the scenes, and who are truly part of the furniture. Over the past three months our proud community partner, Miles Toyota, has been shining a spotlight on these unsung heroes through the Miles Toyota Club Legend campaign — a celebration of the tireless volunteers who are the lifeblood of grassroots rugby.

Driven by nominations from across the red and black region, this campaign has highlighted the stories of those who give their time, energy, and passion notfor recognition, but simply because they care. With over 100 deserving nominations, the response from our rugby community has been phenomenal.

Three exceptional individuals have been named (one each month), as Miles Toyota Club Legends, each receiving the use of a fully-fuelled Toyota Hilux and a$1,000 donation to their club.

The first recipient Jayson McRoberts, is a true cornerstone of Suburbs RFC. Having grown up at the club, Jayson continues to give back in countless ways — from leading the development of new clubrooms and organising youth fundraising, to launching Mutual Empowerment (M.E), a platform to support others in the community. His humility and gratitude truly reflect the spirit of grassroots rugby.

“Like many other clubs, there’s a massive group of awesome people, and I can’t do what needs to be done without the help of them too,” says Jayson. “We’re so appreciative of Miles Toyota for all of this and the money we’ve been gifted.”

Known affectionately as Mugsy, Murray Goodwin was up next. An absolute fixture at Ashley RFC for over four decades — ten years as a player and more than 30 years as Club President. His fingerprints are on every part of the club: from supporting junior teams, organising sponsorships, cooking meals, maintaining the grounds, and everything in between.There’s no job he won’t do and no challenge he won’t tackle.

“It’s a great achievement for all the work I’ve put in, and I’d like to thank Miles Toyota for their sponsorship,” says Mugsy. “The money will be well spent throughout the club.”

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Described as “the man who’s worn every hat,” Linwood RFC’s Club Captain of over 20 years Jimmy Wells was announced this week as the third Club Legend. Whether he’s at committee meetings, coaching, working bees, or ensuring Saturday runs smoothly, Jimmy’s dedication has shaped the culture and future of the club.

“I think Jim’s worn pretty much every hat you can wear in the club, from coaching to chairing the committee and obviously Club Captain,” says Linwood Rugby Manager Sam Jack. “Without the services of Jim, the club wouldn’t be where it is today.” Incredibly humbled to receive this award Jimmy echoed Jayson and Murray’s sentiments, “Miles Toyota — we thank you for your sponsorship and acknowledgement.”

Miles Toyota CEO Mark Mills spoke to the heart of the initiative:

“Local rugby thrives because of the people who give their time, energy, and heart —not for recognition, but just because they care. As the Official Community Partner of Canterbury Rugby, we see first-hand the quiet dedication that keeps grassroots clubs running strong, week in and week out.”

Canterbury Rugby CEO Tony Smail expressed how vital Volunteers are to the success of the game saying: “We’re incredibly grateful to Miles Toyota for helping us recognise the tireless efforts of our volunteers who are truly the heart of our rugby community. It’s their passion and commitment that keep our clubs thriving, and thanks to them, we’ve been able to shine a light on the legends who make it all possible."

2024 Canterbury Rugby Volunteer of the Year and beloved West Melton club legend, Sharlene Wiseman, has been the face of this heartwarming campaign. Known for always putting her hand up and saying yes, Sharlene’s immense contribution to the West Melton community has earned her the final month with the Club Legend Ute. A true local hero, she even found herself featured on a billboard on Moorhouse Ave — a fitting tribute to someone who embodies the spirit of grassroots rugby.

To Jayson, Mugsy, Jimmy, Sharlene, and all those nominated — thank you. You are the true legends of our game.

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