Sean Brookman - 3rd May, 2011

Since being awarded the JDMS I have certainly been kept busy by both the club and the University itself. Starting off at the end of last year I was given the opportunity of playing in the Varsity Seven's at five of the six tournaments we competed in. It was very satisfying to be part of the growth of Sevens at Varsity, ultimately culminating in a Runners-up medal at the Tauranga tournament at the end of January. It was my first introduction to the club and rugby at senior level, a number of experiences, which put me in good stead for the coming season ahead.

In between this I was selected as part of the final squad of 19 players for the Auckland 7s team, and although I didn't go to Queenstown was happy to see them regain the national title.

Once sevens had run its course we were right into planning and preparing for the upcoming season, and we were left to illusions as to what was expected from us in terms of our attitude and results.

Unfortunately at the time of writing I have recently received the news that I've torn cartilage in both my hips that requires surgery so I will be unable to participate in the upcoming season, which is a blow to my aspirations of being a part on the field with the AURFC.

Despite this it gives me more time to work further toward my studies in Law and Arts, currently I am maintaining a B+ average allowing me to get into my second year of Law.

Since I can no longer contribute on the field with rugby, I am looking forward to be able to contribute more so off the field with the U21s side as they look to maintain their unbeaten record against Waitemata this weekend, and the more imposing proposition of Pakuranga the week after.