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There are some people who become part of a club’s history, and then there are those who help build the foundations it stands on. For Ray 'Pipe' O'Brien, Eastern Suburbs Rugby was never just a rugby club — it was a community, a family, and a place where generations could belong.

In the early 1950s, Hamilton was changing fast. The city was shaking off the hardships of the post-war years, families were pouring into new suburbs, and rugby was quickly becoming one of the defining threads of community life.

At the heart of every great rugby club are individuals whose dedication goes far beyond the field. For Suburbs Rugby, one of those people is Jim Wetere Jnr, a man whose story reflects not just a love for the game, but a deep commitment to community, resilience, and progress.

What a morning! It was fantastic to see so many young families down at the club for our Rippa Rugby “Have a Go” Day . We were thrilled to welcome over 90 kids aged 4 and 5 who came along to give Rippa Rugby a try — many of them stepping onto the field for the very first time. The energy, smiles, and enthusiasm across the park made it a truly special event. The focus of the day was simple: fun, participation, and giving it a go . Kids were grouped into small teams, took part