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Strawbridge family raise over $65,000 and say thank you
Chiefs Assistant Coach and Manu Samoa Technical Advisor Andrew Strawbridge and his wife Laura
have a very simple message and it is to say thank you.
The couple wishes to express gratitude to the extremely kind people who have donated over $65,000 to the Strawbridge Givealittle appeal to provide medical equipment for the Moto'otua National Hospital Intensive Care Unit in Samoa.
There were 687 generous donations with many heart felt messages accompanying the donations. Donors shared their own stories, with both sad and happy endings, and the Strawbridge family is touched by the willingness of donors to share those very personal stories.
Fortunately Andrew’s story has a happy ending. Andrew has lost sight in his right eye, but considers himself a very lucky man.
“This experience has taught us a lot about the human spirit, the kindness of people, and how lucky and well resourced we are in New Zealand with our hospitals and primary care physicians.
“The enormity of the gratitude my wife Laura and I feel overwhelms us. We thank everyone who has supported us in my recovery and helped us with our Samoan appeal, allowing us to provide much needed medical equipment for the Moto'otua National Hospital Intensive Care Unit”, said the 51 year-old father of three.
Andrew survived his traumatic life threatening experience after falling critically ill in Samoa while there for the historic Samoa v All Blacks match. Dr Dave Galler and the Intensive Care Unit teams at both the Moto'otua National Hospital and Waikato Hospital saved his life, with the support of the air ambulance crew who flew Andrew from Apia to Hamilton.
After Andrew and Laura’s story aired on television on the current affairs show ‘Sunday’, there was another flood of both financial donations and people offering to help and donate medical equipment.
The first shipment of medical equipment has been transported to Samoa thanks to support of Air New Zealand and the Strawbridge family will continue to support the Samoan ICU. They will continue to work on more fundraising initiatives.
Gallagher Chiefs to play BNZ Crusaders in Fiji
The Gallagher Chiefs will play the BNZ Crusaders in Fiji at ANZ Stadium, Suva on Friday 1 July 2016 in their Round 15 Investec Super Rugby match.
The unique fixture is the result of an extensive amount of work by multiple parties who were eager to have more top class rugby in the Pacific Islands.
Chiefs CEO Andrew Flexman said “We know how much the Pacific Island people love their rugby and this year’s test match between Manu Samoa and the All Blacks was testament to that.
“This is a great opportunity to take the Gallagher Chiefs to Fiji and help promote the game in their country. Fijians have added a huge amount to New Zealand’s rugby heritage and it is fitting that we can give something back as well as expose our brand in a new territory.
“The fixture is a culmination of a lot of hard work by numerous parties, none more so than the game promoter Fortress Information Systems and the Government of Fiji. We should also acknowledge the New Zealand Rugby Players Association and our players for their support in this venture.”
There is great excitement within Fiji Tourism and the Government of Fiji about showcasing Fiji and its national stadium in Suva alongside the Fijian people’s love of rugby. The match will be accessible for the local people with Fortress willing to provide discounted tickets for Fijian citizens to watch the match.
Exclusive ‘Chiefs Road Crew’ tour packages will be available soon for those rugby fans that would like to be part of this special match and all 2016 members will automatically go in the draw to win ‘The Ultimate Chiefs Experience’ which is a trip for two to Fiji to watch their team take on the BNZ Crusaders.
The Chiefs will continue their commitment to take Investec Super Rugby to as many parts of their region when they play their two pre-season games against the Waratahs in the Bay of Plenty and the Blues in Counties Manukau. They will also return to Yarrow Stadium in New Plymouth for their Round 10 match against the Sharks.
Flexman said “We are a truly regional team and cover a vast area so want to connect with as many of our supporters as possible.”
Current members are invited to renew now and new membership enquiries can be made through www.chiefs.co.nz.
Gallagher Chiefs 2016 Pre-season Fixtures
Friday 12 February Gallagher Chiefs v Waratahs Bay of Plenty
Friday 19 February Chiefs v Blues Counties Manukau
Gallagher Chiefs 2016 Investec Super Rugby Home Fixtures
Saturday 5 March Gallagher Chiefs v Lions 5.15pm FMG Stadium, Waikato
Saturday 26 March Gallagher Chiefs v Western Force 7.35pm FMG Stadium, Waikato
Friday 8 April Gallagher Chiefs v Blues 7.35pm FMG Stadium, Waikato
Friday 29 April Gallagher Chiefs v Sharks 7.35pm Yarrow Stadium, New Plymouth
Saturday 7 May Gallagher Chiefs v Highlanders 7.35pm FMG Stadium, Waikato
Saturday 21 May Gallagher Chiefs v Rebels 7.35pm FMG Stadium, Waikato
Friday 1 July Gallagher Chiefs v BNZ Crusaders 7.35pm ANZ Stadium, Suva, Fiji
Strawbridge family overwhelmed by donations
Chiefs Assistant Coach and Manu Samoa Technical Advisor Andrew Strawbridge and his wife Laura have been simply overwhelmed by the influx of donations for the Strawbridge Givealittle appeal to provide medical equipment for the Moto'otua National Hospital Intensive Care Unit in Samoa.
Since their story aired on television on the weekend, the total raised has surpassed $54,000; the appeal will continue to run until the end of October in order to purchase as much medical equipment as possible for the Samoan Hospital.
The 51 year-old father of three said “I am so grateful to the kindness shown by complete strangers, our family and friends and those who understand the challenges caused by a lack of medical equipment in the Moto'otua National Hospital Intensive Care Unit.
“We really do want to make a difference and supply basic equipment that we take for granted in New Zealand,” said the coach who is now blind in one eye as a result of his illness.
The Strawbridges, along with Dr Dave Galler and his team (who saved Andrew’s life after he fell critically ill in Samoa while there for the historic Samoa v All Blacks Test match in July) are highly committed to the project.
Dr Galler, from Middlemore Hospital, provides his intensive care services voluntarily to the island hospital. He has worked closely with the Strawbridge family to prioritize the medical equipment needed for the sparsely equipped Samoan ICU.
Andrew’s wife Laura Strawbridge said “After our very traumatic experience, we want to help the people of Samoa and the large number of tourists, any of whom could require the services of the Intensive Care Unit, to obtain the basic medical equipment that they need and deserve to have. Samoa is a beautiful country with amazing people and they need our help.”
Air New Zealand is supporting the appeal and has offered to transfer the medial supplies to Samoa for the Strawbridge appeal, with the first shipment of 5 boxes of supplies having been flown over on Sunday 4 October.
So far, the appeal has received the following, either as donations, or purchased:
Personal Computer – donated by the University of Waikato with Microsoft donating the Microsoft Office for the PC
Syringe drivers – BD
Humidifiers – donated by the Critical Care Complex at Middlemore Hospital who are upgrading
Bedside Trolleys – USL
Health Alliance have also provided advice and contact with suppliers.
The page is http://givealittle.co.nz/cause/strawbridgeappealforsamoaicu#.
Chiefs sign New Zealand U20’s Captain
New Zealand U20’s Junior World Cup winning captain Atunaisa Moli has signed with the Chiefs for the next two years.
The versatile Waikato prop who can play both sides of the scrum has impressed Chiefs coach Dave Rennie since being a part of the Chiefs Development programme in 2014.
Moli toured with the Chiefs Development team to Hong Kong earlier this season in addition to spending time training with the Chiefs Investec Super Rugby squad.
Rennie said “Atu is a big man with a big future. We've got to know him well over the past couple of seasons from a character and training perspective. His work ethic and desire to develop his game is impressive.”
It has been an exciting time for the 20 year-old tighthead prop. Having led his country to their first Junior World Cup championship since 2011, Moli is rapt to have his first Super Rugby contract.
The 125kg prop said “I enjoy living in Hamilton and the Chiefs and Waikato have done a lot for me, so it was a logical choice to sign with them both.”
“I have learned a lot and am looking forward to continue that learning with the Chiefs.”
Moli will continue to play his ITM Cup for Waikato. He has represented the New Zealand U20’s in 2014 and 2015 and captained the Marlborough Boys First XV in 2013.
Glen Fisiiahi signs with Chiefs and Counties Manukau
Warrior Glen Fisiiahi is set to make a return to rugby and will be joining the Chiefs for the next two years.
The 24 year-old former Wesley College Sports Dux and Counties Manukau U18 rugby player, who had offers to stay in rugby league said “I wanted a change and to switch back to Union with the Chiefs.”
“I have really enjoyed the league environment but I have rekindled my interest in rugby and want to try a different environment. I’m looking forward to a new chapter in my sporting career and a fresh challenge.
The outside back said “I have been impressed by what I have seen at the Chiefs and I believe it will be a good fit for me.”
Chiefs coach Dave Rennie “Glen is a great addition to our group. In the mould of Asaeli Tikoirotuma, he is electric, has a strong skill set and is an outstanding support player. The opportunity to roam on both sides of the park in our game will suit him.”
Fisiiahi has signed to play his ITM Cup for the Counties Manukau Provincial Union.
Counties Manukau CEO Andrew Maddock said “We are excited to welcome Glen back to Counties Manukau. He will be a great asset to our Union and complement the Steelers well.”
After playing alongside Augustine Pulu and Charlies Piutau in the Wesley College First XV, Fisiiahi started playing league for the Junior Warriors in 2009. He joined the first grade Warriors side in 2011 and has been part of the NRL team since. He has also represented Tonga in the 2013 League World Cup.
Fisiiahi joins the following Chiefs players who have already committed to the Chiefs: Michael Allardice, Dominic Bird, Johan Bardoul, Sam Cane, Aaron Cruden, Hika Elliot, Mitchell Graham, Nathan Harris, Andrew Horrell, Tawera Kerr-Barlow, Tevita Koloamatangi, Nepo Laulala, Michael Leitch, Anton Lienert-Brown, James Lowe, Pauliasi Manu, Damian McKenzie, Charlie Ngatai, Augustine Pulu, Toni Pulu, Brodie Retallick, Liam Squire, Seta Tamanivalu, Siate Tokolahi, Maama Vaipulu, Brad Weber and Sonny Bill Williams.
Horrell re-commits to Chiefs
One of the Chiefs most versatile backs, Andrew Horrell has re-committed to the Chiefs Rugby Club for another Investec Super Rugby season.
With four years of Super Rugby and two championship titles to his name, the 27 year-old has proved to be one of the most useful players in the Chiefs team, having played four different positions.
Chiefs Head Coach Dave Rennie said “In a world of massive midfielders, Hozza is a point of difference. With an intelligent footy brain and quality skill set, his ability to create opportunities for others is first class. Hozza’s experience and versatility make him a huge asset to this club.”
Horrell said “I am excited about our new season. We have some new coaches and new opportunities. I love playing for the Chiefs and I want to win another title with this group of top lads.
Horrell has play 49 matches for the Chiefs since making his debut in 2012 against Blues in Round two.
While contract negotiations still continue, Horrell joins the following Chiefs players who have already committed to the Chiefs: Michael Allardice, Dominic Bird, Johan Bardoul, Sam Cane, Aaron Cruden, Hika Elliot, Mitchell Graham, Nathan Harris, Tawera Kerr-Barlow, Tevita Koloamatangi, Nepo Laulala, Michael Leitch, Anton Lienert-Brown, James Lowe, Pauliasi Manu, Damian McKenzie, Charlie Ngatai, Augustine Pulu, Toni Pulu, Brodie Retallick, Liam Squire, Seta Tamanivalu, Siate Tokolahi, Maama Vaipulu, Brad Weber and Sonny Bill Williams.
Toni Pulu earns full contract
Chiefs 2015 wider training squad member Toni Pulu has earned a Chiefs squad contract for the 2016f Investec Super Rugby season on the back of his hard work.
The winger who spent the first part of the 2015 season recovering from shoulder surgery and ankle problems has signed for the next year.
Chiefs Coach Dave Rennie said “Although injured for a big chunk of the season Toni made an impression through his dedication and work ethic. The fastest man in our squad, Toni has the skill set and mindset to be a force at Super Rugby level.”
25 year-old Pulu who has just won the Counties Manukau Rugby club competition with his club Bombay said “I enjoyed the Chiefs environment and love working with the coaches and am keen to get my first cap for Super Rugby.”
Toni will take the field this afternoon for the Counties Manukau Steelers when they play Canterbury at 3pm at ECOLight Stadium in their final pre season hit out before the ITM cup begins.
Pulu joins the growing list of players who have already committed to the Chiefs.
2016 Chiefs contracted players: Michael Allardice, Dominic Bird, Johan Bardoul, Sam Cane, Aaron Cruden, Hika Elliot, Mitchell Graham, Nathan Harris, Tawera Kerr-Barlow, Tevita Koloamatangi, Nepo Laulala, Michael Leitch, Anton Lienert-Brown, James Lowe, Pauliasi Manu, Damian McKenzie, Charlie Ngatai, Augustine Pulu, Toni Pulu, Brodie Retallick, Liam Squire, Seta Tamanivalu, Siate Tokolahi, Maama Vaipulu, Brad Weber and Sonny Bill Williams.
Chiefs hook Harris
Hooker Nathan Harris has extended his contract with the Chiefs for two more years.
The determined hooker spent the 2015 Investec Super Rugby campaign on the sidelines after suffering an ankle injury during the All Blacks historic match in Chicago. During that time Harris showed plenty of heart despite set backs to work his way back to fitness.
Chiefs coach Dave Rennie said “Nathan is a great bloke and a real team player. He is very diligent, eager to learn and we expect him to continue where he left off with his on-field performance.”
Harris will return to rugby today when his ITM Cup team, the Bay of Plenty Steamers play the Manawatu Turbos in a pre-season fixture in Tauranga at the Domain.
The 23 year old is looking forward to getting some game time under his belt. “I have spent the best part of nine months rehabilitating so I am amped and ready to get stuck in. The Chiefs is a fantastic environment and they were extremely supportive last season. It is a great culture to learn in, so I am keen to get back on the paddock and put my best foot forward for them.”
Harris has played 12 games for the Chiefs making his unusual debut against the Crusaders in Round one in 2014 where due to multiple injuries he went on at flanker, marking Richie McCaw.
Harris joins the following Chiefs players who have already committed to the Chiefs: Michael Allardice, Dominic Bird, Johan Bardoul, Sam Cane, Aaron Cruden, Hika Elliot, Mitchell Graham, Tawera Kerr-Barlow, Tevita Koloamatangi, Nepo Laulala, Michael Leitch, Anton Lienert-Brown, James Lowe, Pauliasi Manu, Damian McKenzie, Charlie Ngatai, Augustine Pulu, Toni Pulu, Brodie Retallick, Liam Squire, Seta Tamanivalu, Siate Tokolahi, Maama Vaipulu, Brad Weber and Sonny Bill Williams.
Chiefs re-sign halfback
The Chiefs have re-signed halfback and All Black Tawera Kerr-Barlow for the next two years.
Chiefs coach Dave Rennie said the 24 year-old has displayed an amazing work ethic recovering from his horrific injury during an All Blacks match late in 2014.
“Tawera is incredibly professional. His dedication to rehab and developing other parts of his game throughout his time out has been impressive. He is in fantastic condition."
“He is now one of our senior players who contributes greatly in our environment. I know he is hungry to get back to top level footy.”
The tenacious halfback said “It is an exciting time to be a rugby player in New Zealand and it is great to have certainty around my future for the next few years.
“I am fortunate to be in two exceptional world class teams that have phenomenal environments and people, which make it very appealing to continue playing in New Zealand.
Kerr-Barlow has also signed on with the Waikato Rugby Union for a further two years.
“I am proud to be from Hamilton and I love the Chiefs and Waikato, so am rapt to have recommitted till 2017,” said Kerr-Barlow.
Kerr-Barlow has 56 Chiefs matches to his name, after making his debut in 2011. He has played 15 Tests for the All Blacks after making his first appearance against Scotland on the Northern Hemisphere end of year tour in 2012 and has notched up 39 matches for Waikato since debuting in 2009.
The highly dedicated player has represented New Zealand in school rugby and was part of 2010 IRB World Championship winning side.
“Tawera is a Waikato man through and through and we are delighted to retain his services,” Waikato head coach Sean Botherway said.
“He is a product of our academy system and has been signed to Waikato since he was at high school. We are very proud of his achievements in his career to date and look forward to his ongoing contribution to our Union."
Kerr-Barlow is expected to feature in the early rounds of this year’s ITM Cup as he continues his encouraging return from injury. He is working towards a return to the All Blacks and has already played with the Maori All Blacks and his local club Hautapu.
