New Award For The Ultimate All Black

News Release
November 16, 1999

NEW AWARD FOR THE ULTIMATE ALL BLACK

This year's Steinlager Rugby Awards, being held on Wednesday (November 17), will feature a new accolade recognising the all-time ultimate All Black.

The inaugural Steinlager Salver will be presented to the All Black who has demonstrated excellence, humility and respect for the All Blacks jersey to the highest standard. Any player who has worn the black jersey is eligible to win.

Lion Breweries sponsorship director Iain Abercrombie says the Steinlager Salver will be an ongoing award recognising outstanding All Blacks throughout history, but suggests the inaugural presentation of the award will be a special honour for the recipient.

"When the selection committee makes their choice for the Steinlager Salver award, they will ultimately be choosing the greatest All Black in history, the person who fulfils the criteria of excellence, humility and respect more than any other," Mr Abercrombie said.

Mr Abercrombie recognises that the selection will undoubtedly raise debate among rugby supporters throughout the country.

"There are so many candidates for such an award as you look through over a century of rugby in this country.

"I'm sure everyone in the country will have an opinion as to who should receive the award, and we've left it to a selection committee of rugby experts to make this difficult decision."

The selection committee included Sir Brian Lochore, Tane Norton, Bob Howitt and John Sturgeon.

The Steinlager Salver is one of two new awards being presented at this year's Steinlager Rugby Awards. The other is the adidas People's Choice Award presented to the greatest current All Black, as voted by the New Zealand public.

The annual Steinlager Rugby Awards are a celebration of New Zealand rugby at every level. They will be televised live on TV One at 8pm on Wednesday.

Ends

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