Horowhenua StarNo one will be in the Foxton number 15 jersey at Levin Domain tomorrow – the premier rugby team earlier retired the number for the season as a mark of respect for club stalwart Ivan Coley, who died on May 31 aged 89.
Former Foxton rugby player and club president Ivan Coley. Photo: Bruce Falloon
Ivan was born on March 12, 1936, and grew up in Foxton. He played rugby for the Foxton club and was in teams that won the Ramsbotham Cup in 1959, 1961, 1962 and 1963. He played a majority of those games at fullback, although towards the end of his career he also played open-side flanker.
A broken shoulder ended his career when he was late tackled. He was in the premier teams from age 18-23.
Ivan was a true servant of Foxton Rugby Club and filled roles as coach, club captain, president and patron. He was also a life member.
He earned a lot of respect throughout the Horowhenua rugby community and was always acknowledged by the locals and visitors alike.
Ivan attended school in Foxton and on leaving Manawatū College went to work at the Feltex factory across the road. Later in life he became a carpenter’s labourer.
Ivan is survived by his wife Pat, Children Judith, Stephen, grandson Jason Angela Love, Judith Graham (daughter in-law) and great grand-daughter Kaylah Gyde.
