Last week Waikato Rugby Centurion and record points scorer, Matthew Cooper was appointed as the new NZRU Vice-President taking over from Max Spence who has been promoted to NZRU President.

After making the move from Hawkes Bay, Matthew Cooper, became Waikato player #883 and made his debut against Otago in 1990. He would then go on to make a total of 124 appearances for the province over nine seasons, during that time, he became the top Waikato points scorer with a total of 1604 points, scoring 38 tries, 331 conversions, 252 penalties and 1 drop goal.

On top of playing for Waikato, Cooper, was All Black #887 and made 26 appearances in the black jersey, which included eight test matches.

Cooper becomes the first Waikato nominated NZRU Vice-President since Waikato great, Ian Clarke, held the same position in 1992.

NZRU Vice-President, Matthew Cooper, said “A special day last week where I was very proud to be nominated by Waikato Rugby and then to be appointed as the NZ Rugby Vice President to work alongside new NZ Rugby President Max Spence over the next two years.

Waikato Rugby has played such a significant part of where I am today, and I will always be grateful for that. Debuting for the Mooloo’s in 1990 and then fortunate to wear the famous red, yellow and black 124 times through to 1999, the memories and friendships made with my teammates just as solid today as they were 25-30 years ago.

The family summer holiday in the 70s where Father Pat snuck a youthful Matt and Greg Cooper onto the famous Rugby Park to have a few kicks allowing for a moment to dream and imagine that maybe one day I might be out there in the famous colours.

Dreams do come true! I do want to thank all associated with Waikato Rugby because without Waikato Rugby – this opportunity may not have happened – so to my special teammates, managers, coaches, boards, Waikato Rugby staff, my club and of course the heart of Waikato Rugby – the Mooloo fans, I am very proud, honoured and excited to be your now appointed Vice President for NZ Rugby over the next two years.”

Article added: Wednesday 04 May 2022