Keeping it in the family on the far side of the world (From Penarth Times)

Keeping it in the family on the far side of the world

IT hasn"t taken long for 18-year-old Penarth rugby star Luke Muggeridge to make his mark on the other side of the world!

Former Stanwell pupil Luke emigrated to New Zealand with his family last August - reluctantly saying goodbye to his beloved Penarth Rugby Club.

Luke had played for the Mini/Junior teams from Under 8s progressing to the Youth team, and relished his last season when he scored a total of 188 points.

So readers won"t be surprised to hear that last Friday, Luke was presented with an award by Colin "Pinetree" Meads - legendary former All Black player and manager - for Most Points Scored 2005 for Waipu Senior Reserves.

Luke has participated in Waipu"s most successful year ever - as winners of the league and runners-up in the provincial championship.

Also, the teenager has now been selected for Northland Under 18s provincial side, playing against the likes of Auckland and Waikato.

Luke"s father Brent, better known as Mugsy, played for both Penarth Seniors and Old Penarthians for many years.

He came out of retirement - again - to play alongside Luke in the Waipu senior team.

Luke and Mugsy wish Penarth"s Senior and Youth teams all the best for the coming season, and send good luck wishes to Liam Beavan, captain of Penarth Youth.