ARL introduce the Ron Ackland Medal

ARL introduce the Ron Ackland Medal

The Auckland Rugby League have announced the introduction of the Ron Ackland Medal, which will be awarded to the best and fairest player in the ARL under-17 grand final every year.

The medal will be given out following this Saturday’s under-17 grand final between Marist and Glenora, which kicks off at 9.25am at Trusts Stadium.

In honour of the late Ron Ackland, the medal has been donated by the Ex Kiwis Association and will be presented by Ackland’s former teammate Brian Reidy.

Auckland Rugby League CEO John Ackland said it was fitting that the award be given to the most-outstanding player on the field in a competition as strong and well-contested as the under-17s.

“The fact that Ronnie’s medal will go to the player who not only showcases the most skill and effort on the field, but also sportsmanship, is very appropriate,” Ackland said about the medal which carries the name of his uncle.

“This season the under-17 competition has been of a high quality and some great football has been played.”

Ron Ackland debuted for the Auckland representative side in 1954, scoring three tries in a 35-15 defeat of Canterbury.

He went on to give years of service to the Auckland game as both a player and coach.

Ackland also played 18 Tests for the Kiwis, captained his country in 1961 and is a member of the New Zealand Team of the Century.

ENDS

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