New Zealand vs Australia in the 2010 Opens Trans Tasman Series

Touch Football Australia today announced the introduction of the Ron Hanson Medal to commemorate the Australian flag bearers appointed for the tournament.

Ron Hanson commenced playing Touch Football in 1968, playing in the very first Touch competition after a stellar Rugby League career representing Eastern Suburbs. Hanson was captain for New South Wales against Queensland in 15 test matches with an undefeated record. In 1976 he became the first Australian captain, in the inaugural Trans Tasman series played in New Zealand, where Australia won all matches.

Hanson was in attendance today at the Australian Jersey Presentation ceremony to present the inaugural medal recipients to Trevor McPhillips and Cathy Gray.

Men’s 50's representative McPhillips has represented Australia at four World Cups, with 40 Test Caps for Australia. Last representing Australia in 1999, the opportunity to wear the green and gold jersey at the Masters Trans Tasman, McPhillips said he jumped at the chance, but is very surprised with the honour announced today.

“I am very honoured but very shocked, considering the class of talent in this room,” McPhillips said.

“It is great to see the Masters Trans Tasman back on the calendar and the opportunity given to us to represent our country.”

Director of High Performance, Cathy Gray, started selecting in 1981 and commenced her current position prior to the World Cup in 1999.

Cathy is an integral member of Touch Football Australia, and represents volunteerism in the sport. Gray, like McPhillips, was equally as surprised at the announcement.

“It is the biggest shock in my life and I don’t think the reality of what an honour it is has really sunk in,” she said.

“Especially surrounded by so many stalwarts and role models that to me epitomise what Australian representative stands for. It will be the proudest moment of my life.”

The referees also announced Dale Lawrence a flag bearer to represent the officials at the opening function.

“It is a great honour for me,” Dale said.

“In the same way flag bearers represent their country, I am representing the officials and the referees. There are a lot of other referees here who I think deserve this as much or more than me, so to be selected for this is such an honour."

For highlights from the Tournament Functions visit My Touch TV at www.austouch.com.au

Article courtesy of Touch Football Australia