Saturday’s Super Rugby clash between the NSW Waratahs and Brumbies will carry added significance this year, with the introduction of the Dan Vickerman Cup.
A well respected and much loved player of both the Waratahs and the Brumbies, the clubs wanted to honour the former Wallabies star, who died at the age of 37 last month.
NSW Rugby chief executive Andrew Hore said the Dan Vickerman Cup would add further weight to what is already expected to be a tough battle between the sides at Allianz Stadium.
“Dan was one of those teammates who was admired by all that knew him and I know both sides will be wanting to take home the Dan Vickerman Cup,” Hore said.
“It is another way for the rugby community to recognise Dan’s contribution to rugby.
“The clash between the Tahs and Brumbies is always a feature on the Super Rugby calendar and we are looking forward to hosting them on our turf in what we expect to be a very physical match up.”
Brumbies boss Michael Thomson echoed Hore’s sentiments.
“The Brumbies against the Waratahs is always one of the highlights of the season and the conception of the Dan Vickerman Cup will only add to the spectacle,” Thomson said.
“There have been several epic clashes between the clubs down the years and the rivalry has built into a healthy respect.
“Dan was an instrumental figure at both teams and the introduction of this trophy is a fine way to honour his memory.”
Machooka
Roar Guru
Thanks G!
soapit
Guest
state funeral is one thing but naming a sporting trophy after a deceased sportsman doesnt particularly seem to be getting hung up on a sportsman death to me. id like to know precisely what message you think it sends? for mine it says if you achieve something with your life and make an impact on people they will want to remember you when you pass.
Lincoln Lense
Guest
Former State of Origin player Peter Jackson died of a drug overdose. It's discgraceful they never re-named State of Origin the 'Jackson Shield' The point is it sends the wrong message to kids. Australians love getting hung up on the death of sporting personalities. I squirm thinking about the absurdity of David Hookes recieving a State Funeral
Geoff Parkes
Expert
Well said TBS Jock/Squirrel, whatever your name is, The vast majority of your comments are notable only for their irrelevance and stupidity. But you've even outdone yourself this time for a new low - which is really saying something.
Linphoma
Guest
Rumours, schmoomers. Be of good cheer! The Brumbies, top-flight ACT rugby, will not be relegated to history. Nostro-Linphoma prophesies it! If it DOES happen??? Well ARU and rugby loses another 40-year ex-player, ex-junior coach and fan, of what is and always will be a fringe Australian sport
Adsa
Guest
It's not celebrating how he died, it is honouring a well liked player and member of both clubs, I think it is a great idea.
Republican
Guest
How will this look next season without a Brumbies Super entity?
The Battered Slav
Guest
Wow and I thought I was being a bit insensitive by talking about the Brumbies future above... How is this a celebration of suicide? It's honouring a great servant to NSW, ACT and Aus rugby, who died well before he should have. It's celebrating the 37 years that went before one moment, not that moment itself. Ever lost anyone close to you to suicide? No? I thought not... Having said that I'm not surprised at the tone of your comment given your propensity for idiocy that you display for all to see on a daily basis with your ridiculous commentary on these boards. I have a feeling not many people care much for your contributions. I think you and Lincoln above might enjoy each others company far more than anyone enjoys yours. Give yourself an uppercut Jock.
Jock Cornet
Guest
It's ridiculous why are we celebrating suicide
Paul
Guest
Because its about how he lived, not how he died.
Lincoln Lense
Guest
This doesn't sit right with me. I understand it is a disease and he would have obviously been suffering enermously but there are little innocent kids who will grow up without a father now. A young Qld Reds squad member committed suicide a few years ago - they never named a grandstand after him
The Battered Slav
Guest
Brett what's going on? This might not be the right forum for the discussion (in light of it being about a testimonial for Vicks), but what have you heard? You have your ear fairly close to the ground in Brumbyland, what rumblings about this travesty have you heard? I really hope my source for this has gone off half cocked, but it's not like that person at all so I am incredibly worried that the cat is all but out of the bag and the Brumbies are done.
Smiggle Jiggle
Roar Guru
Consider this is the final season for the Brumbies, its will be the best Vickerman Cup ever
Brett McKay
Expert
Great that this has come about. Makes so much sense..
The Battered Slav
Guest
Looking forward to the inaugural and final Vickerman Cup challenge this weekend. Hang your heads ARU.
Fin
Guest
excellent decision