Special day for Stewart family at the park tomorrow

Since its inception in 2006 the Tasman Rugby Union has prided itself on creating a family-based culture.

That philosophy is epitomised by a Marlborough clan who have been part of the Mako picture since day one.

Mark “Bull” Stewart was a durable hooker in the very first Tasman side, a foundation Mako who went on to play 16 games for the nation’s newest union from 2006-07.

During the 2016 season Mark’s son Braden, a tearaway flanker, followed his father into Mako colours, also making his debut against North Harbour. He has since played 23 games for the union, the pair becoming the first father/son combination to represent the Mako at NPC level.

This season they have extended that proud record and created another first, Braden's sister Courtney Finau (nee Stewart) earning a spot as a loose forward in the Tasman Mako women’s squad who are currently competing in the Farah Palmer Cup.

Tomorrow, the trio have a chance to enjoy a special occasion. Lansdowne Park, where Mark played with distinction for both Tasman and Marlborough, will host a Mako women’s and men’s double-header, giving 30-year-old Courtney and Braden, 27, the opportunity to showcase their skills back-to-back in front of family and friends.

Mark, who has followed his children’s progress through the ranks with great paternal pride, is looking forward immensely to watching them play in the double-header.

“It will be pretty special … they have worked bloody hard to get to where they wanted to be, especially after both have come back from serious injuries.”

Braden, who enjoyed another top season with club side Central, started against Counties Manukau on Saturday and is an integral part of their pack, while Courtney, out of the Moutere club, has been coming off the bench for the women’s side.

“She’s loving it, just relishing the opportunity,” said Mark. “I have just been telling her to keep working hard and nail the little things in her core role.”

Both youngsters are happy to chat to the old man about their rugby.

“We always have a bit of a talk before the games, so that’s pretty cool,” he added.

“It was pretty cool being the first father/son combination to play for Tasman, so to have my daughter playing too is pretty bloody awesome.”

Lansdowne Park will be a busy place tomorrow, the women taking on the Manawatu Cyclones from 4.35pm, followed by the men up against the high-flying Bay of Plenty Steamers, that game beginning at 7.05pm.

The Tasman union have declared Saturday a “club day”, meaning any age grade players (up to under-17) who turn up wearing club colours can gain free admission.