An inspiration
Sheldon Pitama (Ngāi Tahu – Ngāi Tūāhuriri, Ngāti Wheke, Ngāti Kurī) has recently returned from Auckland where he played two tests against Australia for the New Zealand 18s’ Rugby League team.
The Kiwis won the first test 20 -18 and the Aussies won the second 32-28. Both games were exciting and close.
Prior to the match, the Kiwis formed a close brotherhood while on an eight-day camp in Whangarei and Auckland, ensuring that out on the field they were a united front against tough opponents.
“The Aussies are always going to come out strong and the last tests were no exception. They were big, strong and fit but we matched them all the way,” Sheldon said.
Sheldon specialises in the hooker position, also playing in the halves and sometimes at loose forward. His level of fitness and his commitment to bettering himself is exemplary, as are his leadership skills on and off the field. Sheldon’s defensive skills and ability to control the game are his best two attributes and he commands respect by ensuring that his pack goes forward in defense and attack.
Sheldon captained the South Island Scorpion team in their last game on 13 October, before heading away to fulfill his Melbourne Storm contract for 2014, playing in the SG Bull NSW competition. He will also be attending the Australian Catholic University, studying Health Science.
Sheldon’s dad, Mathias Pitama, who has coached him through the grades, could not be more proud of his son, supporting him in everything he does. When asked whether or not he will miss his son, he said, “Of course I will miss him but I know that this is his dream and he has a chance to live it. The hard work will start for him when he gets to Melbourne pre-season training. We are staying in New Zealand so this will be a change for him and he will need to adjust to not having us there. He has all the goods and we are all right behind him.”
Sheldon has grown up in Tuahiwi, where he attended Tuahiwi Primary School. He is about to graduate from Rangiora High School. He is an excellent role model for all young people and what they can achieve with hard work, commitment and dedication. He is looking forward to the new challenges and is excited about the prospects of the years ahead. E te manukura, tukuna ōu parirau kia rere.
From left, Mathias Pitama, his son, Sheldon Pitama and Melaine Taite Pitama, Sheldon’s mother.
Mathias Pitama (left) and Sheldon Pitama.