I first noticed Trumpy (a brick on legs) at my first training session with Bayside and it wasn’t until a few days later after another training session that we actually met at Boston Pizza where, due to my somewhat crass and annoying North Queensland accent and persona, he corrected me on what swear words to use and not use whilst in Canada. After several more beers and other antics including the infamous ‘Loopy’ we began our mate-ship.

Living in Charles Browns rental through Mike Pajics negotiations. Lee, Mitch, Myself and Trumpy (unofficially) created somewhat controlled havoc on Upper Roper.

Trumpy taught us to snowboard, was our tour guide, Canadian wingman, liaison officer (especially when police once or twice got involved), but most importantly was our teammate.

Regardless of your skill set, race, religion, orientation etc. being part of a team solidifies a persons place in a family outside of their own or in some cases their team is their only family.

Whilst in Canada, there were multiple people who contributed to welcoming myself, Lee and Mitch into the Bayside Rugby family. Pajic, Charles, Bunny and Loopy etc. Trumpy though was just about at our place every night and became our little bro.

Our friendship through rugby extended out from Canada until Ben’s passing (though I believe he still has input in all our lives from somewhere). I could go o n and on about the adventures and debauchery but understand this is ‘family friendly’. So, to finish, all I can say is that without rugby there would’ve been no Trumpy in my life and many, many others.

Miss you mate.

Evan Japp,
JCU Mariners (James Cook University)
Queensland, Australia