BBC SPORT | RUGBY UNION | Meads gets top Kiwi honour

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BBC Sport Online: Rugby Union

Friday, 29 December, 2000, 20:03 GMT

Meads gets top Kiwi honour

Colin Meads, New Zealand's rugby legend has been awarded the equivalent of a knighthood in the New Zealand New Years Honours List.

The 64-year-old Meads was named a Distinguished Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to rugby union and the community.

Selected in a pool as the All Black of the 20th Century, Meads played 55 tests for New Zealand between 1955 and 1971, mostly in the second row.

Of course I'm thrilled...It's part of what life's about and it's unexpected, put it that way
Colin Meads

The King Country hardman gained notoriety for his uncompromising approach and in 1967 he became only the second All Black to get sent off in an international.

Meads went on to become a national selector and manager although he spent several years in the rugby wilderness after coaching the rebel Cavaliers team of New Zealand players to South Africa in 1986.

He told the New Zealand Press Association he welcomed the recognition.

"Of course I'm thrilled...It's part of what life's about and it's unexpected, put it that way," he said.

Heavyweight boxer David Tua, comprehensively outpointed in his International Boxing Federation and World Boxing Council bout against defending champion Lennox Lewis, was also honoured.

He became a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit along with Women's British Open squash champions Leilani Joyce.

Related to this story:
John: England blew World Cup chance (07 Sep 00 | Rugby Union)
Polished Lewis sees off Tua (12 Nov 00 | Lewis v Tua)
Joyce retains British Open title (15 Oct 00 | Other Sports)

Internet links: Colin Meads tribute site |
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