Report of 2002 Deaf Rugby World Championships
Director Deaf Rugby World Championship Limited
Just a brief note following the International Deaf Rugby Organisation has requested me for this report possibly. I am Director DRWC Ltd have pleased that my summary report of host DRWC, which 9 – 24 August 2002 in Auckland, New Zealand.
A limited liability company, Deaf Rugby World Championship Limited, was formed with Directors Reginald Leach and myself to organise and manage the DRWC 2002.
The Deaf Rugby World Championships 2002 was the first ever international competition for deaf and hearing-impaired players. Four countries took part in the Championships, Australia, New Zealand and Wales competed in both the 15-a-side game and the Sevens competition while Japan competed in the Sevens only.
Initial interest from competing nations was high with strong indications that eight nations would be attending. The currency crisis forced the withdrawal of the Argentina and internal problems prevented South Africa from attending. The French withdrew due to lack of funding in June and the Fiji team notified the organisers of their non-attendance two days before their scheduled first game. The sporadic nature of communication with, and lack of organisation by, the Fijians was a major setback for the integrity of the Championships due in no small part to the lateness of their notice of withdrawal.
The first ever Deaf Rugby World Champions 2002 (15-a-side) were the Welsh team who defeated New Zealand by 28 – 14 in the Finals at Eden Park. Australia was third place.
Australia won the inaugural Deaf Rugby World Sevens Championship with a 32 – 5 victory over Japan at Waitemata Park. Wales beat New Zealand by 53 – 5 in play off 3rd place.
In additional to the tournament schedule, four ‘friendly’ games (15-a-side) were staged involving Japan, Wales, Australia, NZ Maori / Pacific Island and President XV teams. These were held at Massey Park, Waitemata Park, College Rifles Park and Eden Park.
Two major events formed part of the official’s programme – the Opening held at the Heritage Auckland Hotel and the Closing Ceremony and Prize giving held at Eden Park. Additionally, each of the teams was hosted for a social night at the Auckland Deaf Society.
The Stars Travel were appointed as travel managers and Salt Advertising as tournament managers. In January 2002 Cherry Events were subcontracted by Salt Advising and appointed as event managers Mark Scherer and Alan Cunningham.
The DRWC 2002 was funded through three avenues – corporate sponsorship, charitable sponsorship and team levies. A total of NZD$107,000 was raised and net proceeds at the conclusion of the tournament were $5,000 (unaudited).
The next 2nd Deaf Rugby World Championships will be held in Cardiff, Wales in July 2005.
