Matthew Matich
It did not take long for Matthew to start his University
playing career after finishing his college days at Mount Albert
Grammar. Nor has it taken him long to display all the good
qualities of a very worthy recipient of the Scholarship.
Matthew has been involved with the University Sevens team
since late 2009 and has since played in two other tournaments
in the new year with the last being at the Mount Maunganui
tournament.
It is clearly evident that he is a no-nonsense workhorse
who goes about his job in similar fashion to John Drake. You
will not see too much flashy play from Matthew, but a player
that is seen doing all the hard work and is never further
than two metres from the ball at all times.
An easy personality that has effortlessly become a Mighty
Blue already. The proud Northlander is already know as the
Taniwha by some of his new club-mates.
Matthew will be very well coached by former Kings College
1st XV coaches Jim Dickin and Mark Kennelly in the Under 21
grade. What is shaping to be a very strong team in 2010, he
will play a major role in the on and off field leadership
and overall success.
"Matthew Matich, our first John Drake Memorial Scholar,
has made an impressive start to his association with the University
Rugby Club. He has gained entry into the demanding and prestigious
Engineering Faculty as a result of a very strong performance
in his final School NCEA examinations. This begins to fulfill
the first part of his scholarship - to achieve in his academic
studies. His rugby has also started well; he has impressed
as a sevens player for the club and in his pre-season training
for the University Under 21 team. In his general demeanor
as a strong team man, he has quickly become part of the University
rugby family. Matthew has made a most encouraging start as
our inaugural John Drake Scholar and all at the Club will
be following his progress with interest."
Sir John Graham, Patron, John Drake Memorial Scholarship Fund
"Matthew Matich is studying for the BE (Hons) degree.
He achieved very good results in his final examinations for
NCEA Level 3 and was selected for the Bachelor of Engineering
degree. Matthew has done well academically as the University
of Auckland now selects students for entry to all degree programmes
and the entry standard for Engineering is higher than most
other programmes.
The John Drake Memorial Scholarship will ease the financial
burden for Matthew and help him to pay his University fees
and living costs. The scholarship will give Mathew more time
to devote to his study and rugby with less need for paid employment
to cover his costs."
Ken Rapson - Auckland University Schools Partnership Office
View the photo gallery here:
http://www.alumni.auckland.ac.nz/uoa/johndrakememorialscholarshipreceptionphotosandvideo
View the videos here:
http://www.alumni.auckland.ac.nz/uoa/johndrakememorialscholarshipreceptionspeakervideos
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