Jacob Waikari-Jones, centre holding the rugby ball, is excited to have been nominated for a Blues and Golds Award for his dedication to rugby.
Blues and Golds Awards nominee Jacob Waikari-Jones is excited his work on the Otago University A rugby team has been noticed.
The Blues and Golds Awards are an annual event run by the University and OUSA to celebrate sporting and cultural achievements. Silver awards acknowledge the exceptional work done by students within the community.
“It’s been an up and down, rollercoaster of a season, but I know the work I have put in and it feels pretty cool to be recognised for it” Jacob says.
Jacob is close to finishing his Bachelor of Science with a major in Sport and Exercise Science and a minor in Sport Development and Management.
He has been nominated for a Blues sporting award and he plays in both fullback and first five eighth positions for the Otago University A. He has also played for the New Zealand Universities side and is currently playing for the West Coast in the Bunnings Heartland Competition.
Rugby has been a life-long passion of Jacob's (Jacob is in blue and holding the ball).
A highlight for him during his rugby career so far was playing for the NZ Universities team against the Japan U20 team.
“The most surreal moment for me was singing the national anthem and leading the haka.”
Jacob loves the tactical side of rugby and having the ability to express himself.
“Before every game I think to myself ‘do something cool out there’. The feeling of having space to run and beating defenders really excites me.
“The tactical side is something I try to dominate as well. Preparing on and off the field, during the week at training, to give my team the best possible chance of winning on game days.”
Jacob has been playing rugby since he was around four years old.
“I can’t fully remember how it all began but I have had a great family influence to keep my love for the game high,” Jacob says.
This year’s Blues and Golds Awards evening will be held on 25 September.