Former New Zealand Warriors coach talks ‘top tips’ with young league players in Queenstown
Australian rugby league football coach and former New Zealand Warriors coach Ivan Cleary had a captive audience when he arrived in Queenstown yesterday (Monday March 7) to play in the BMW ISPS Handa New Zealand Open.
The former goal-kicking fullback had plenty to say to 20 young local league players from Queenstown and Wanaka who were thrilled to grill the legendary coach, playing this week in the ANZ Celebrity Challenge.
From his top tips — “keep your eyes up” to favourite players, the hardest tacklers and worst injuries (the time he broke his hip) he was happy to spend time answering questions from the youngsters, aged 12 to 17.
“My favourite thing about being a coach is seeing young players like you coming through,” he told them.
And his favourite try? “The first time I played for Manly which is where I’m from,” he said with a smile.
For someone who didn’t start “playing seriously” until he was 18, he said backyard games with his two older brothers had been how he learned to play.
As for his golf, Ivan said he had been to Queenstown and the Open in previous years as a spectator and was very much looking forward to his first time competing. He plays off a handicap of 11.
“When I found out about this opportunity I couldn’t believe it; I couldn’t get here quick enough,” he said. “Queenstown is just an amazing place and I absolutely love it.
“I’ve been here in different seasons and I love every one. The golf courses are fantastic and I’m really looking forward to taking part, and the company too.”
Joining him in this year’s ANZ Celebrity Challenge on the Australian team are former cricketer Allan Border as captain, along with Ricky Ponting and actor and comedian Glenn Robbins. Team New Zealand comprises Stephen Fleming as captain, Brendon McCullum, actor Shane Cortese and former All Black Justin Marshall. Teams play over all four days of the tournament.
The four-day BMW ISPS HANDA New Zealand Open tees off at Millbrook Resort and The Hills on Thursday 10th March with the winner to be decided at The Hills on Sunday 13th March.
