Wednesday, March 30, marked the Bay of Plenty Rugby Union's 111th Annual General Meeting, which took place at Club Mount Maunganui.

Board Members, Presidents, Sub Union and club representatives from across the Bay of Plenty attended in person adhering to the current Red Light setting regulations.

Many important topics were addressed and discussed, including the recognition of some significant achievements.

Two more-than-worthy achievements were that of John Brake and Graeme Crossman, with Brake receiving the BOPRU Centurion Award and the acknowledgement of Crossman with a BOPRU Life Membership Award.

The Centurion Award is a prestigious honour presented to a select few who have represented the Bay of Plenty for 100 first-class games.

John Brake, a first-five who represented the Bay of Plenty men's side in the 1980s, had his playing record initially recorded at 98 first-class games.

However, Brake's three games played during Bay of Plenty's 1981 tour of Australia were not included.

Over 40 years later, John was officially acknowledged for his Centurion achievement, a special moment for all present on the evening.

"To learn I was going to be presented with the Centurions Award was totally unexpected. It took me right out of my comfort zone," says John.

"But it really is a privilege. I feel very honoured."

Graeme Crossman, meanwhile, became only the eighth person to receive the Life Membership Award, an achievement previously earned by only a select few and the most honourable recognition given by the Bay of Plenty Rugby Union.

Graeme played for Eastern Districts Rugby Club from 1972-76, 36 games for Bay of Plenty and 19 games for the All Blacks. Graeme was the first-ever Eastern Districts All Black.

Graeme then coached the Bay of Plenty for nearly five years and was Bay of Plenty Rugby's President between 2015/16. He was extremely thankful for his extraordinary achievement.

"Much like John Brake, to be recognised with this award was unexpected, but it is very nice to be recognised for something you love doing and being involved with the Bay for so long.

"It's been a labour of love, I guess. Both playing, coaching and being part of the Presidents Group. I am very taken aback and grateful."

Other notable moments of the evening were the announcements of Warena Morgan as the newest appointment as Rugby Director on the BOPRU Board and the acknowledgement of current BOPRU Board Member Craig Sandlant's departure after his three-year term.

BOPRU Chairman Scott Kahle (left) and newly appointed BOPRU Rugby Director Warena Morgan (right)

BOPRU Chairman Scott Kahle says the following about Morgan's and Sandlant's respective announcements.

"The Union and no doubt the rugby community would like to thank Craig Sandlant for his contribution to rugby governance in the region. His grassroots understanding of rugby and club connections has been a great attribute to the board," says Scott.

"We are also fortunate that Warena has had strong club support for taking over Craig's position as an appointed Rugby Director on the Board. He will bring that background and understanding of how we can best deliver back to our clubs and community."