Finding the joy in strapping on the boots

John ‘Nugget’ Pounsford will join thousands this weekend in strapping on their boots for the first time this season, as the Ohoka Division 2 side get their season underway in Culverden tomorrow.

For Nugget, their mercurial first five, this new season is just as exciting as the last one, with lacing them up and head out on the field with his mates once again too good an opportunity to turn down. 

“I played League all of my life before giving rugby a go here in Ohoka a few years ago,” said Pounsford, “Coming out here, this has become another home for me.” 

“The camaraderie you get amongst the boys makes it so enjoyable, the banter is awesome. The culture here is unlike any other I have experienced.” 

Alongside the opportunity to continue interacting with his mates, playing rugby also allows Pounsford the chance to stay active and be a role model for his children.  

“For me, I’m at the ripe old age of 40 now,” chuckled Pounsford, “But look, I still love getting out there and helping the boys.”  

“Having the chance to also have my kids along and having them all watch is pretty special. I couldn't be any prouder that my children actually get to watch me play sports. Everyone gets to hear the stories of your playing days, but when they get to see it, live it and breathe it, you know, I find that it's good for them to know that age is no barrier and you can just carry on doing what you love doing.” 

It’s a sentiment that Pounsford will carry into the weekend and one that he encourages others to follow suit with.  

“If you were thinking of playing, it doesn't matter if you've been here, five minutes, five years or 50 years. You get welcomed with open arms and showed love, just like everybody else has been here for that amount of time, to me, that's very, very important.”