Socks For Sam Doyle

Despite not being able to play at Otaki Domain for Sam’s Day, Manawatū and Wellington will still be showing their support for Sam Doyle through the wearing of his former team’s socks this weekend. 

The Manawatū Turbos, running out in Freyberg RFC socks, play Wellington Lions, taking the field in Hato Paora socks, in a Mitre 10 Cup pre-season fixture this Saturday 5th September at the Levin Domain. Because of the Covid-19 Alert Level 2 restrictions, the game will be played with no spectators. 

Doyle’s Freyberg RFC Coach, Manawatū Centurion, Maori All Black and All Black Bruce Hemara said, “It makes me proud to know the Turbos are wearing Freyberg club socks on Saturday when they play Wellington. What an amazing gesture for the club, for Manawatū and most importantly Sam.”

Manawatū Rugby Union Chief Executive Shannon Paku feels honoured to be a part of it. “Manawatū Rugby are grateful to be able to play a part in helping Sam, Tracey and the whānau through these challenging times. As a Hato Pāora College old boy, Freyberg RFC and Manawatū Rugby rep at various levels, Sam will always be part of our Manawatū Rugby community.  While representing Manawatū he was selected in the NZ Colts, NZ Divisional Team & the NZ Maori All Blacks. We wish him all the best with his battle and recovery.”

Horowhenua Kapiti Rugby Football Union Chief Executive Officer Corey Kennett is appreciative of the socks gesture. “It’s a very warming gesture for Manawatū and Wellington to be wearing the socks of Sam’s teams. While we are gutted Manawatū and Wellington won’t be playing on Sam’s Day on the 19th September, it’s great that both teams are still able to honour Sam in this way.”

The Wellington Lions v Manawatū Turbos game kicks-off at 1:05pm and will be live streamed on Facebook by both unions.