Tamworth Magpies coach Peter Burke has worn many sporting hats and has been honoured for his contribution to the club with life membership.
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Now he has been named the latest recipient of the Sportsman's Warehouse Community Sports Award
It is a bit humbling. I'm certainly honoured to be recognised,
- he said.
“You don’t do what you do to get rewards, but when they do come they are nice.”
Burke described coaching any rugby team as “almost like working a second job”.
He began his playing career as a junior at the Magpies in 1980 and made his first-grade debut in 1983. He was still playing first grade there in 2003.
He’s coached first grade at the Magpies at other stages and is a former president of the club.
Burke coached the Tamworth under-16 side to the premiership when his son Will was in the team.
He has also been president of Central North Rugby and is a former top-grade referee.
His deep passion for rugby has taken him elsewhere. He played for and coached the Harden Red Devils (1997-98) and the Moree Bulls (1989-94).
Burke described Tamworth’s move to New England Rugby this season as the most courageous decision he has been involved in as part of the sport.
“To date we’re extremely happy and thrilled to be there,” he said.
