Memories
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The Richmond Rovers club has been fortunate to have great people working within the club, many of whom have been recognised as Life Members. Below are some memories of past and present Richmond Rovers club members. If you would like to post your memory up then please contact us.
My Grandpa, Benjamin William Davis Snr, was the club's first vice-president and founder of the club. The Hardware Boot Factory began in Richmond Road and then moved to Vincent Street. The boots had the brand name Bulldog, after grandpa's bulldog. Grandpa was Chairman for many years and Uncle Norman was also on the board. They moved to Wrights Road, Point Chev. Grandpa died in 1969. My dad Benjamin William Jnr, played for Richmond from 1916, when he was 12, to 1931. [I have his cap to prove it]. He was in the team that won the Roope Rooster in 1926, along with his good mate Snowy Telford, who was later best man at his wedding. My dad died in 1962, so it was good to visit the old clubrooms this year and find the family in the old photographs up on the wall. I am in my 70's, but would love to make contact with anyone who remembers our family from those days - Jan Cottle |
Just saying hi to you dogs and Roses. Played and coached and played a bit at the ''pound'' and ''garden'', currently supporting the club from the HILL 'O' DEATH with a beer in the hand. Wishing everyone a good season, and hope to catch up with you during the season. Big Ups to all our expats overseas, Scotty Read, Daniel Vasau, Danny boy Seve, Matty Guttenbeil and many more. I know some of you can't type let alone read, but drop us a line. GOD BLESS DA DAWGS AND ROSES - George Apelu.
Peter Ah Koui, Toa Fepuleai, John Buchan, John Petersen, Fred Ah Koui, Shane Varley, Afi Ah Koui, Luther Toloa, Ray Williams, Se'e Solomona, Gary Turner, Olega Toloa. Bench: Foa Solomona, Tausi Tausi, John Marshall, Teo Maunga, Gary Dryland, Pau Tausi, Lapana Seve - Best players of my time 1974-2008, Anonymous
Great club, I was a legend but only I new it. Played for Ponies before that. Great club to be involved with, Woke up a lot of mornings not knowing how i got home after having only 'one beer yeah right - Matiu Guttenbeil
The Greatest Club on the Planet! The most amazing sense of family and so much talent!! - Andrew Sylvester
Where my journey as a Rugby League player started. Thanks to Tauasa (Nigel Vagana's Dad) While watching the boys play from the side-line every Saturday after our morning B-Ball games. Standing next to Tauasa he convinced me to go and join the boys. My Dad still didn't allow me to play any hard contact sport. So I kept telling him that I was just going to train to keep fit. I told him one Saturday that I was on the reserves bench for the team. So he decided to come along to watch us play Mangere East. Just in case I got on the field. One of the guys from church sees him and goes over and starts telling him about how well I had been playing for the last few weeks. To make it even worse I took a high shot in the head and woke up to have my Dad standing next to me telling me that I should retire - Ivala Vaaelua
I got my 10 year trophy and won 2 championships - David Savieti (Dee)
Me and Snowy Puru gaining down to Carlaw park on Sundays to watch the PREMS I remember one game watching JAMES GOULDING and JAMES PICKERING BATTLE with the inform FUE brothers from Northcote on no.2 maybe the best game I’ve ever seen, the BULLDOGS beat the star studded TIGERS. My coach at the BULLDOGS was Simon Cassidy. We had a lot of good players but 2 talented guys I thought would of gone all the way were GRAHAM MCGLYNN and PIO SAO.I came back to Grey Lynn park but it was to play against the BULLDOGS, I was playing for north harbour in the regional cup, We got smoked I felt really funny playing against some of my old mates and where I grew up. We had a laugh and a drink afterwards that was really cool. I was very lucky to have started at this great club with so much strong history. GO THE MIGHTY BULLDOGS - Moro Davis
Played with this club most of my life, all my family have played or been involved in the club in some way or another - Karl Anthony Vasau (Karel)
Good club good atmosphere very happy too have been part of dis footy club - Agaese Sami (Ese)
Peter Ah Koui, I was there in 1984. Photo on wall JB and me, Keith also. What was this time like? Great for ones who have been there like us from the 70's and even beyond. Your mum, the good old days, your dad Sefuiva, the Tausi's, Martin's, Solomona's, Yandall's, Buchan's, Gary, Williams, their days make these days - Dennis Kennedy
Played in the Bulldogs senior B's under the Coaching of Nessie (Elliott) Sesega and John Buchan, we did quite well I was very privileged to have played with very talented players, who for one reason or another could have gone all the way to the top. Good times was always guaranteed at the after match functions. The Ah Kuoi's, Solomona's, Tausi's, Teei's, Paranara's and so on were well known to me because we all went to MAGS - Peter Clarke
BULLDOGZ BITEM! BITEM!, IS WOT I REMEMBER AND WILL 4EVA..THE FAMOUS CNR AT CARLAW PARK 4 DA DAWGZ..2DA DAZE.."GREY LYNN PARK"DA SHIRE.."ITS HARD 2 ROLL DA DAWGZ IN THE DAWG HOUSE"..HAVNT PLAYED 4DA DAWGZ 4 A WHILE BUT MY HART WILL ALWAYS BE WITH THE PRIDE OF GREY LYNN "RICHMOND" BULLDOGS BITEM! BITEM!..1LUV..MUN.. REST IN PEACE DAD-SISTA - Manu Seve
Started @ this club after moving from Pt Chev my coaches where Toot's and big bad Lesemo players that I played with are Wayne Maumasi and my cuz Hans Hunt - Robert Hunt
Fortunate to have played with some great people The Solomonas, Sefuivas, Unasas, Vaganas, AhKuois, Tuisamoas, Shaumkels, Matamoas, Autagavias, Sateles, Browns, Laulus, Leauannes and so on- Samson Lee Sang
Proud to have been part of the club. Go hard brotherz - Lee Graham
Started at the club when I was 8, followed my mates to a few different clubs but finally went home to the ''mighty bulldogs'' - Hugh Mckechnie
THE BEST CLUB IN THE WORLD - Matthew TuiSamoa
Played from under something grade with Se'e, Bradley, Charlie, Robert Paris and all those boys back then - Willy/Will Aviga (Willy)
Played in a great era vs. arch-rivals, Mt Albert, Oats, U15 U17 U19 U21-annual semi-finalists, reached two U21 finals under the great Benjo Sefuiva. Played schoolboy & junior grade with my closest friends-some of the stars were Johnny Rabbit,the late Risman Hunt (uncle of Karmichael). Played for John Lika Brown & Salani Senior Bs 82 Knock Out Cup Champs, Reserves 83 undefeated 20-0 -lucky to captain Waha's 1985 senior B side to a second consecutive undefeated season. Johhny Iefata- the scariest sight in front of a goalpost. Very honored to play with so many great & talented Bulldogs- Tavita & Mani Solomona, Mac Laulu, Colin Satele,Simeon, Otto, Pete Yandall, Chang, Fred Keil, to name a few Came to the States on a gridiron scholarship and showed on the gridiron what Bulldog pride and ferocity was all about Great memories of our Prems beating Otahuhu 79 & 80 Fox . Fondest memories of our club stalwarts- Scotty Miller, Eileen Buchan, Mr P, Johnny Grieves, Alan Polley. Started my career with Afi in 75 - Onesemo toa Sagapolutele
Started as minors coach was colleen Williams Ray Williams mum played through the grades - Linwood John Viliua
Have been with the club as a player from juniors to premiers and have been an administrator (club Capt.) since 1993, coached the women’s from 1994-2003 - George Apelu-Tuimaseve (knee-caps, Sene, and many more.)
IT RUNS IN THE VEINS HAD A BLAST AND LOOK FORWARD TO HAVING A JAR THERE IN THE FUTURE - Maseesee Solomona (Mase)
Started playing for Richmond in 1972 under Ron Goodin then the Premier team under various coaches over the years, Bruce Castle, Ivan Erceg, Snow Northin, Ray Williams and Joe Gwynne. Hold some special memories of the 'old folks' of the club; Irene & Rene Buchan, Scotty Miller, Laura & Gordon Campbell, Snow Telford, Ray's parents and the many others. Along with two brothers, were part of the original 'Tokes' of Richmond. Highlights were the years of Ray Williams and Joes Gywnn era culminating in 79 with the Fox and other two trophies and the 'family atmosphere in the team, the Ah Kuois, the Drylands, the Varleys, Petersons, Taurua, Fepuleai, Buchans. Other memories were the mud, the mud and the mud of the park and the cold showers of the old clubrooms - Luther Toloa
Played with some great bunch of guys/friends....2 many to name. Still support the club through my son playing school boy grade. A special club through my teen years -
Otis Lio (Oats, Flint)
Father never ever new I played league as typical Samoan immigrants it was all about union. Loved the club until we had to move south. Remember playing in a hot team consisting of players like Nanu Tuisamoa, Kenny, Andrew Ah Koi. Awsome jerseys - Gus Faletasi Tanuvasa
At the age of 10, I use to sneak out of the house and follow my eldest brother Nogo down to league training, in the hope of playing Rugby League for my age group.
Girls weren't allowed to play in those days, so I had to settle with cheering for my brother from the sideline - Lele Sipeli-Schaumkel (Sipeli) (Lel)
Great memories and special friends for life. BITE 'EM!! - Steve Unasa
Grey Lynn Park, Richmond Rovers Rugby League Club, HOME... since I can remember. I love this place and my family within its boundaries... R.I.P. Alan Polly -very fond memories of a great coach and mate - Charlie O'Dwyer
Going to the Railway Hall! $10 socials! After a hard game - I would bus home! GOOD 1! Pub crawls, Prize givings - "Oh do we still have them?" And lately meeting up with the Old boys - Masters! Players from old times and opposition! GO THE MIGHTY BULLDOGS! - Tavita Solomona
First played for Richmond at age 5 midgets and then went on to play for Ponsonby rugby until returning to Richmond under 13's.played to under 21 champs my main position was rake and utility I went to Grey Lynn Primary and Avondale intermediate and then MAGS 4 LIFE HAHA. I left NZ on a football scholarship to BYU via Price Utah with Onesimo Sagapolutele and Rob Billington. I now live in Honolulu Hawaii and if you are ever in Hawaii call me 808 782 6362 here are some old Richmond faces. I hope they bring a smile to your face as it does mine every time I look at it - Rob Marsom
Played a few games, life member, club captain, committee, coached. Friends are John Kite, Hec Martin, Brian Martin and Olga Toloa, Knew most of the Club members - Ken Campbell (Kenny)
1959 to 1961 as a junior and again from 1978 to 1983 as a premier grade player - Brian Campbell
Toby Millar, John Buchan, Robert Wells, Colin Low, Peter Biling were my team-mates - Vivian Yates
Played with Phil Dryland, Colin Pearson, Lathan Tobin etc through the Schoolboys and Grade Teams. Served on management Committee. Later years kicked around with Rob Hewitson & Ernie Newton - Dave Campbell
Johnny Buchan and Bernie Lowther went on to be great players. Norm Howard was our coach and also a golfer I re met in the 80's at South Head Golf Club. One of those great little men, died of cancer probably about 1990 - Don Roberts
My grandfather was a founding member of the club. I played from 1955 - 1965 - Colin Low (Musashi)
We won 7 championships and 9 knockouts in competition. I made 3 Auckland rep teams and one North Island Team. That was when Auckland played in Greymouth 1950 - Maurice Facoory (Reece)
Came back from Oz for one season my brothers and mate Moses Strickland were here started with the Senior Bs ended up alternating between Premiers and reserves, Joe Gwynne being Top grade coach what a legend learnt a lot from him except how to control my aggro. Played with some great players, club stalwarts the Solomona’s, Ah Kuoi's, Chan, Bonecrusher Pickering the great Gus and George Apples, Ben Sef and many more, made my firsts debut against Glenora and won reserves final great times lifelong friends, now involved with the Masters team on my return home, Cheers Poamo - Poamo Tuialii (Prom)
Came to Richmond with my brother Ki and John Fuimaono from the Manukau club. Met up with the Richmond boys thru the 1986 Samoan pacific cup team. We came to play with the Solomona brothers, Afi and Andrew Ah Koui(then Fred), George Apelu Andrew Brown, Peter Tuali'i, J.P, James Pickering, Steven Goulding. Great people, simple and humble. Had a great time, especially in the bar!! - Paul Okesene
Dad brought me down to this club when i was 9 after he transferred from Te Atatu and I’m still there....bad mistake, once you're in you never get out!!! – Nadene Tuimavave(Kaiser) (Nads)
I played U17 on the wing, we had about 2-3 Auckland rep players (Moro Davis, Patrick Clark etc...), we made the finals but got knockout, Simon Cassidy was our coach, I also coached the U14s for a season in 2000, we made the pennant semis before being knocked out by Ponsonby, I still love the club & support them, it was & still is were i first learned to drink and have some great friends even though I live out west - Allan Samuel (Sam)
Started out playing u12's under the master tutelage of my father Peter. Played a few more years before heading off to Australia with family. Played u18s and 21s on my return, always enjoyable with plenty of characters around, privileged to have played with some talented players as well, shot da doggies! P.S. famous Matty Guttz quote "Mate I think you need a heart transplant"..haha - Poamo Jnr Tuialii (Pom)
Played my 1st premier footy at Richmond with players like James Pickering, Matty Tuisamoa, Aleki Maea, Roy Tusa and Finau Lavea. Still go back there for a plate of Lindsey’s chop suey, curry and rice. Best club in Auckland, real family atmosphere - Lionel Pereira
Oh this place has been the best lots of good times in the club and especially on the field....made lots of brothers during the years and many more to come.... see you at training boyz!!! - Telea Lavea
We I reckon had a great team that could of gone all the way, with gifted players like Duke,Ming and Mina just to name a few that I had the honour of playing with Snowy and Brian and Big Dave and the Niuean Boys - Harry Manamana (manman)
Late for practices, late for games.....back to union - Thom Faleolo
Started playing for the fossils (legendary) as a 20yr old. Best ever learning curve from all the masters of the game Joe Kaiser, Fred Keil, Otts, Lapiti (John Tuimavave) Trini, Koko, Meki, Henry (wheelbarrow) Colin, Mate (Solomona) Saila (Saifiti -my second row partner) Henry Solomona(amazing ball skills for a big guy) Sene, Maurice, Matthew (Hunt), Ili, Samson, Lahorz bros, Lapano (Hitman) the late Afi (Honour playing with you) Mohe, went on to become one of the original senior a islanders first members with Teo Maunga, Feleke, Malaki boys, Farmer, Mia, Gino, Ikinofo, Latani, Terry, Andrew, Snow etc...(Rugby league at its best both in attack & defence 1994) played in only team to go through undefeated senior b (2000)(the most structured league game plan showcase) alongside legends like Tavita Solomona and Alipa. Alofi, Peter Clarke?? Lots more..best club always – Michael Fruean (wrestler)
Yeah, the club where i got to watch the big names play, the club that gave me the opportunity to play against some of the greats. the place where I endured so much input by players, coaches, managers, administrators, Family and friends. So yea those hills will always be there. Once a bulldog always a bulldog - Ben Strickland
Father Big Frank (Tiniteila) signed me up with the Doggies wen I was 15, so I grew through my teenage years at Grey Lynn Park. Won a couple of Championships and played alongside the most talented players of my generation and still lifelong friends. Debuted for the Premier side as an 18 year old in the Fox Memorial Shield competition then challenged for the Fox Memorial Shield against Northcote Tigers at Carlaw Park. The following year we nearly pulled it off just losing in the dying seconds from an intercept try. I will always remember my years at the dog pound. Always a doggie - Jade Tiniteila
Malo, played for Glenora Bears (1988-2002) but I needed a change of scenery so went on loan to Richmond in 2003. Hand on heart I feel more affiliated to Richmond than the Bears due to the hospitality of the club, the endless efforts of the volunteers and of course the camaraderie of the brothers on and off the field. What Richmond lacked in finance and resource during my stint was well and truly made up for in generosity, support, love and care. You cannot put a price on that which is why the club will always survive. So many great memories and friendships forged. Tavita Solomona's infamous post game ‘Ice parties’, the Premier First Championship victory in 2003, the celebrations that went 2 weeks straight and the endless prize giving nights at Grey Lynn which ended in town at 5am! So many good players to have graced the jersey to name however I remember lining up in game one of season 2003 with a fresh faced kid straight out of Mt Albert Grammar, Steve (Skivi) Matai. He said nothing at training all week, then put a clinic on how to hit the biggest guys on the weekend. Am not surprised he has gone on to bigger things. So many dudes that could have cracked it at the Richmond club including: Dougie (Tausinga), Logs (Logan Wright), Boogs (Val Mcdonal), Karl Guttenbeil just to name a few. I can't wait to come back for the Centenary Weekend in June (Queens Birthday weeken) 2013 - can't wait to reunite with the Brothers again! Richmond for life! – Sa Luata
Party Central!!! Loved playing with the greatest guys in the greatest club. Tavita Solomona! When's the next ice party? And Mr George Apelu I'm still waiting for supper aye? Bite Em Bulldog!!! - Jubilee Kori
I joined in 1971 with my best mate Graham Paraha after being invited down to Grey Lynn Park by Shane Varley as we all were from Seddon high school (now Western Springs College). I didn't know much about rugby league back then but I was curious to find out. We made the 8th grade and the 10th grade championship followed by a 3 year unbeaten record. So for 5 years our team went unbeaten. What a great bunch of guys and wonderful coaches we had in Kenny Coglin and Don Eccles. Some of our players went on to higher honors namely Fred Ah Kuoi and Shane Varley. My own playing days stopped when I started a family however the club didn't lose me altogether as I started coaching. My first year as coach/manager was with the Under 16s junior grade team. This was a memorable year as we went to the Grand Final played at Carlaw Park and won the competition. The reason it was so memorable for me was that I was Rookie coach and I was awarded the Club Coach trophy ahead of all the senior coaches of the Richmond Rovers club. I was so honored. Also because the year before when our under 23's won the championship grand final our coach Allen Polley also had won the coach of the year award. That made it extra special for me to have won it the following year... I'm still a diehard member at this great club of ours. I love it because of the family's that have come and kept it going all these years. I love it because of the people. The kids that come here will have great memories to hold on to just like I have. I am still active in helping the club. Also my interest are still here because I have a 10 year old boy named Afi playing at this fabulously great club. 2013 may this year mark the start of a new era for Richmond. Best of luck to our Premiers as they go into the Grand Final against Otara. We will be heading into the Fox when our boys win this last game. - Sioneapita (John) Toluaki
Peter Ah Koui, Toa Fepuleai, John Buchan, John Petersen, Fred Ah Koui, Shane Varley, Afi Ah Koui, Luther Toloa, Ray Williams, Se'e Solomona, Gary Turner, Olega Toloa. Bench: Foa Solomona, Tausi Tausi, John Marshall, Teo Maunga, Gary Dryland, Pau Tausi, Lapana Seve - Best players of my time 1974-2008, Anonymous
Great club, I was a legend but only I new it. Played for Ponies before that. Great club to be involved with, Woke up a lot of mornings not knowing how i got home after having only 'one beer yeah right - Matiu Guttenbeil
The Greatest Club on the Planet! The most amazing sense of family and so much talent!! - Andrew Sylvester
Where my journey as a Rugby League player started. Thanks to Tauasa (Nigel Vagana's Dad) While watching the boys play from the side-line every Saturday after our morning B-Ball games. Standing next to Tauasa he convinced me to go and join the boys. My Dad still didn't allow me to play any hard contact sport. So I kept telling him that I was just going to train to keep fit. I told him one Saturday that I was on the reserves bench for the team. So he decided to come along to watch us play Mangere East. Just in case I got on the field. One of the guys from church sees him and goes over and starts telling him about how well I had been playing for the last few weeks. To make it even worse I took a high shot in the head and woke up to have my Dad standing next to me telling me that I should retire - Ivala Vaaelua
I got my 10 year trophy and won 2 championships - David Savieti (Dee)
Me and Snowy Puru gaining down to Carlaw park on Sundays to watch the PREMS I remember one game watching JAMES GOULDING and JAMES PICKERING BATTLE with the inform FUE brothers from Northcote on no.2 maybe the best game I’ve ever seen, the BULLDOGS beat the star studded TIGERS. My coach at the BULLDOGS was Simon Cassidy. We had a lot of good players but 2 talented guys I thought would of gone all the way were GRAHAM MCGLYNN and PIO SAO.I came back to Grey Lynn park but it was to play against the BULLDOGS, I was playing for north harbour in the regional cup, We got smoked I felt really funny playing against some of my old mates and where I grew up. We had a laugh and a drink afterwards that was really cool. I was very lucky to have started at this great club with so much strong history. GO THE MIGHTY BULLDOGS - Moro Davis
Played with this club most of my life, all my family have played or been involved in the club in some way or another - Karl Anthony Vasau (Karel)
Good club good atmosphere very happy too have been part of dis footy club - Agaese Sami (Ese)
Peter Ah Koui, I was there in 1984. Photo on wall JB and me, Keith also. What was this time like? Great for ones who have been there like us from the 70's and even beyond. Your mum, the good old days, your dad Sefuiva, the Tausi's, Martin's, Solomona's, Yandall's, Buchan's, Gary, Williams, their days make these days - Dennis Kennedy
Played in the Bulldogs senior B's under the Coaching of Nessie (Elliott) Sesega and John Buchan, we did quite well I was very privileged to have played with very talented players, who for one reason or another could have gone all the way to the top. Good times was always guaranteed at the after match functions. The Ah Kuoi's, Solomona's, Tausi's, Teei's, Paranara's and so on were well known to me because we all went to MAGS - Peter Clarke
BULLDOGZ BITEM! BITEM!, IS WOT I REMEMBER AND WILL 4EVA..THE FAMOUS CNR AT CARLAW PARK 4 DA DAWGZ..2DA DAZE.."GREY LYNN PARK"DA SHIRE.."ITS HARD 2 ROLL DA DAWGZ IN THE DAWG HOUSE"..HAVNT PLAYED 4DA DAWGZ 4 A WHILE BUT MY HART WILL ALWAYS BE WITH THE PRIDE OF GREY LYNN "RICHMOND" BULLDOGS BITEM! BITEM!..1LUV..MUN.. REST IN PEACE DAD-SISTA - Manu Seve
Started @ this club after moving from Pt Chev my coaches where Toot's and big bad Lesemo players that I played with are Wayne Maumasi and my cuz Hans Hunt - Robert Hunt
Fortunate to have played with some great people The Solomonas, Sefuivas, Unasas, Vaganas, AhKuois, Tuisamoas, Shaumkels, Matamoas, Autagavias, Sateles, Browns, Laulus, Leauannes and so on- Samson Lee Sang
Proud to have been part of the club. Go hard brotherz - Lee Graham
Started at the club when I was 8, followed my mates to a few different clubs but finally went home to the ''mighty bulldogs'' - Hugh Mckechnie
THE BEST CLUB IN THE WORLD - Matthew TuiSamoa
Played from under something grade with Se'e, Bradley, Charlie, Robert Paris and all those boys back then - Willy/Will Aviga (Willy)
Played in a great era vs. arch-rivals, Mt Albert, Oats, U15 U17 U19 U21-annual semi-finalists, reached two U21 finals under the great Benjo Sefuiva. Played schoolboy & junior grade with my closest friends-some of the stars were Johnny Rabbit,the late Risman Hunt (uncle of Karmichael). Played for John Lika Brown & Salani Senior Bs 82 Knock Out Cup Champs, Reserves 83 undefeated 20-0 -lucky to captain Waha's 1985 senior B side to a second consecutive undefeated season. Johhny Iefata- the scariest sight in front of a goalpost. Very honored to play with so many great & talented Bulldogs- Tavita & Mani Solomona, Mac Laulu, Colin Satele,Simeon, Otto, Pete Yandall, Chang, Fred Keil, to name a few Came to the States on a gridiron scholarship and showed on the gridiron what Bulldog pride and ferocity was all about Great memories of our Prems beating Otahuhu 79 & 80 Fox . Fondest memories of our club stalwarts- Scotty Miller, Eileen Buchan, Mr P, Johnny Grieves, Alan Polley. Started my career with Afi in 75 - Onesemo toa Sagapolutele
Started as minors coach was colleen Williams Ray Williams mum played through the grades - Linwood John Viliua
Have been with the club as a player from juniors to premiers and have been an administrator (club Capt.) since 1993, coached the women’s from 1994-2003 - George Apelu-Tuimaseve (knee-caps, Sene, and many more.)
IT RUNS IN THE VEINS HAD A BLAST AND LOOK FORWARD TO HAVING A JAR THERE IN THE FUTURE - Maseesee Solomona (Mase)
Started playing for Richmond in 1972 under Ron Goodin then the Premier team under various coaches over the years, Bruce Castle, Ivan Erceg, Snow Northin, Ray Williams and Joe Gwynne. Hold some special memories of the 'old folks' of the club; Irene & Rene Buchan, Scotty Miller, Laura & Gordon Campbell, Snow Telford, Ray's parents and the many others. Along with two brothers, were part of the original 'Tokes' of Richmond. Highlights were the years of Ray Williams and Joes Gywnn era culminating in 79 with the Fox and other two trophies and the 'family atmosphere in the team, the Ah Kuois, the Drylands, the Varleys, Petersons, Taurua, Fepuleai, Buchans. Other memories were the mud, the mud and the mud of the park and the cold showers of the old clubrooms - Luther Toloa
Played with some great bunch of guys/friends....2 many to name. Still support the club through my son playing school boy grade. A special club through my teen years -
Otis Lio (Oats, Flint)
Father never ever new I played league as typical Samoan immigrants it was all about union. Loved the club until we had to move south. Remember playing in a hot team consisting of players like Nanu Tuisamoa, Kenny, Andrew Ah Koi. Awsome jerseys - Gus Faletasi Tanuvasa
At the age of 10, I use to sneak out of the house and follow my eldest brother Nogo down to league training, in the hope of playing Rugby League for my age group.
Girls weren't allowed to play in those days, so I had to settle with cheering for my brother from the sideline - Lele Sipeli-Schaumkel (Sipeli) (Lel)
Great memories and special friends for life. BITE 'EM!! - Steve Unasa
Grey Lynn Park, Richmond Rovers Rugby League Club, HOME... since I can remember. I love this place and my family within its boundaries... R.I.P. Alan Polly -very fond memories of a great coach and mate - Charlie O'Dwyer
Going to the Railway Hall! $10 socials! After a hard game - I would bus home! GOOD 1! Pub crawls, Prize givings - "Oh do we still have them?" And lately meeting up with the Old boys - Masters! Players from old times and opposition! GO THE MIGHTY BULLDOGS! - Tavita Solomona
First played for Richmond at age 5 midgets and then went on to play for Ponsonby rugby until returning to Richmond under 13's.played to under 21 champs my main position was rake and utility I went to Grey Lynn Primary and Avondale intermediate and then MAGS 4 LIFE HAHA. I left NZ on a football scholarship to BYU via Price Utah with Onesimo Sagapolutele and Rob Billington. I now live in Honolulu Hawaii and if you are ever in Hawaii call me 808 782 6362 here are some old Richmond faces. I hope they bring a smile to your face as it does mine every time I look at it - Rob Marsom
Played a few games, life member, club captain, committee, coached. Friends are John Kite, Hec Martin, Brian Martin and Olga Toloa, Knew most of the Club members - Ken Campbell (Kenny)
1959 to 1961 as a junior and again from 1978 to 1983 as a premier grade player - Brian Campbell
Toby Millar, John Buchan, Robert Wells, Colin Low, Peter Biling were my team-mates - Vivian Yates
Played with Phil Dryland, Colin Pearson, Lathan Tobin etc through the Schoolboys and Grade Teams. Served on management Committee. Later years kicked around with Rob Hewitson & Ernie Newton - Dave Campbell
Johnny Buchan and Bernie Lowther went on to be great players. Norm Howard was our coach and also a golfer I re met in the 80's at South Head Golf Club. One of those great little men, died of cancer probably about 1990 - Don Roberts
My grandfather was a founding member of the club. I played from 1955 - 1965 - Colin Low (Musashi)
We won 7 championships and 9 knockouts in competition. I made 3 Auckland rep teams and one North Island Team. That was when Auckland played in Greymouth 1950 - Maurice Facoory (Reece)
Came back from Oz for one season my brothers and mate Moses Strickland were here started with the Senior Bs ended up alternating between Premiers and reserves, Joe Gwynne being Top grade coach what a legend learnt a lot from him except how to control my aggro. Played with some great players, club stalwarts the Solomona’s, Ah Kuoi's, Chan, Bonecrusher Pickering the great Gus and George Apples, Ben Sef and many more, made my firsts debut against Glenora and won reserves final great times lifelong friends, now involved with the Masters team on my return home, Cheers Poamo - Poamo Tuialii (Prom)
Came to Richmond with my brother Ki and John Fuimaono from the Manukau club. Met up with the Richmond boys thru the 1986 Samoan pacific cup team. We came to play with the Solomona brothers, Afi and Andrew Ah Koui(then Fred), George Apelu Andrew Brown, Peter Tuali'i, J.P, James Pickering, Steven Goulding. Great people, simple and humble. Had a great time, especially in the bar!! - Paul Okesene
Dad brought me down to this club when i was 9 after he transferred from Te Atatu and I’m still there....bad mistake, once you're in you never get out!!! – Nadene Tuimavave(Kaiser) (Nads)
I played U17 on the wing, we had about 2-3 Auckland rep players (Moro Davis, Patrick Clark etc...), we made the finals but got knockout, Simon Cassidy was our coach, I also coached the U14s for a season in 2000, we made the pennant semis before being knocked out by Ponsonby, I still love the club & support them, it was & still is were i first learned to drink and have some great friends even though I live out west - Allan Samuel (Sam)
Started out playing u12's under the master tutelage of my father Peter. Played a few more years before heading off to Australia with family. Played u18s and 21s on my return, always enjoyable with plenty of characters around, privileged to have played with some talented players as well, shot da doggies! P.S. famous Matty Guttz quote "Mate I think you need a heart transplant"..haha - Poamo Jnr Tuialii (Pom)
Played my 1st premier footy at Richmond with players like James Pickering, Matty Tuisamoa, Aleki Maea, Roy Tusa and Finau Lavea. Still go back there for a plate of Lindsey’s chop suey, curry and rice. Best club in Auckland, real family atmosphere - Lionel Pereira
Oh this place has been the best lots of good times in the club and especially on the field....made lots of brothers during the years and many more to come.... see you at training boyz!!! - Telea Lavea
We I reckon had a great team that could of gone all the way, with gifted players like Duke,Ming and Mina just to name a few that I had the honour of playing with Snowy and Brian and Big Dave and the Niuean Boys - Harry Manamana (manman)
Late for practices, late for games.....back to union - Thom Faleolo
Started playing for the fossils (legendary) as a 20yr old. Best ever learning curve from all the masters of the game Joe Kaiser, Fred Keil, Otts, Lapiti (John Tuimavave) Trini, Koko, Meki, Henry (wheelbarrow) Colin, Mate (Solomona) Saila (Saifiti -my second row partner) Henry Solomona(amazing ball skills for a big guy) Sene, Maurice, Matthew (Hunt), Ili, Samson, Lahorz bros, Lapano (Hitman) the late Afi (Honour playing with you) Mohe, went on to become one of the original senior a islanders first members with Teo Maunga, Feleke, Malaki boys, Farmer, Mia, Gino, Ikinofo, Latani, Terry, Andrew, Snow etc...(Rugby league at its best both in attack & defence 1994) played in only team to go through undefeated senior b (2000)(the most structured league game plan showcase) alongside legends like Tavita Solomona and Alipa. Alofi, Peter Clarke?? Lots more..best club always – Michael Fruean (wrestler)
Yeah, the club where i got to watch the big names play, the club that gave me the opportunity to play against some of the greats. the place where I endured so much input by players, coaches, managers, administrators, Family and friends. So yea those hills will always be there. Once a bulldog always a bulldog - Ben Strickland
Father Big Frank (Tiniteila) signed me up with the Doggies wen I was 15, so I grew through my teenage years at Grey Lynn Park. Won a couple of Championships and played alongside the most talented players of my generation and still lifelong friends. Debuted for the Premier side as an 18 year old in the Fox Memorial Shield competition then challenged for the Fox Memorial Shield against Northcote Tigers at Carlaw Park. The following year we nearly pulled it off just losing in the dying seconds from an intercept try. I will always remember my years at the dog pound. Always a doggie - Jade Tiniteila
Malo, played for Glenora Bears (1988-2002) but I needed a change of scenery so went on loan to Richmond in 2003. Hand on heart I feel more affiliated to Richmond than the Bears due to the hospitality of the club, the endless efforts of the volunteers and of course the camaraderie of the brothers on and off the field. What Richmond lacked in finance and resource during my stint was well and truly made up for in generosity, support, love and care. You cannot put a price on that which is why the club will always survive. So many great memories and friendships forged. Tavita Solomona's infamous post game ‘Ice parties’, the Premier First Championship victory in 2003, the celebrations that went 2 weeks straight and the endless prize giving nights at Grey Lynn which ended in town at 5am! So many good players to have graced the jersey to name however I remember lining up in game one of season 2003 with a fresh faced kid straight out of Mt Albert Grammar, Steve (Skivi) Matai. He said nothing at training all week, then put a clinic on how to hit the biggest guys on the weekend. Am not surprised he has gone on to bigger things. So many dudes that could have cracked it at the Richmond club including: Dougie (Tausinga), Logs (Logan Wright), Boogs (Val Mcdonal), Karl Guttenbeil just to name a few. I can't wait to come back for the Centenary Weekend in June (Queens Birthday weeken) 2013 - can't wait to reunite with the Brothers again! Richmond for life! – Sa Luata
Party Central!!! Loved playing with the greatest guys in the greatest club. Tavita Solomona! When's the next ice party? And Mr George Apelu I'm still waiting for supper aye? Bite Em Bulldog!!! - Jubilee Kori
I joined in 1971 with my best mate Graham Paraha after being invited down to Grey Lynn Park by Shane Varley as we all were from Seddon high school (now Western Springs College). I didn't know much about rugby league back then but I was curious to find out. We made the 8th grade and the 10th grade championship followed by a 3 year unbeaten record. So for 5 years our team went unbeaten. What a great bunch of guys and wonderful coaches we had in Kenny Coglin and Don Eccles. Some of our players went on to higher honors namely Fred Ah Kuoi and Shane Varley. My own playing days stopped when I started a family however the club didn't lose me altogether as I started coaching. My first year as coach/manager was with the Under 16s junior grade team. This was a memorable year as we went to the Grand Final played at Carlaw Park and won the competition. The reason it was so memorable for me was that I was Rookie coach and I was awarded the Club Coach trophy ahead of all the senior coaches of the Richmond Rovers club. I was so honored. Also because the year before when our under 23's won the championship grand final our coach Allen Polley also had won the coach of the year award. That made it extra special for me to have won it the following year... I'm still a diehard member at this great club of ours. I love it because of the family's that have come and kept it going all these years. I love it because of the people. The kids that come here will have great memories to hold on to just like I have. I am still active in helping the club. Also my interest are still here because I have a 10 year old boy named Afi playing at this fabulously great club. 2013 may this year mark the start of a new era for Richmond. Best of luck to our Premiers as they go into the Grand Final against Otara. We will be heading into the Fox when our boys win this last game. - Sioneapita (John) Toluaki