Ardmore Marist Club Manager and long time volunteer Kelly Flavell was recognised recently by the NZ Marist Rugby Association when she received the McMillan Heveldt Trophy and was named New Zealand Marist Club Personality of the Year

Mr Gary Walters, NZ Barbarian member and NZ Marist representative, spoke of Kelly's long term commitment to rugby and the local community.

"Kelly Flavell's commitment to upholding the values of the NZ Marist Rugby Association and helping embed these within the Ardmore Marist club culture have helped create a truely inclusive and family centric club."  He said.  "Kelly's contribution to rugby is significant and the support of her selection for the McMillan Heveldt Trophy was unanimous!  The Trophy has previously been awarded to some very well known rugby personalities and Kelly's name sits alongside very good company - she is a truely deserved recipient!" Walters explained.  "There is a network of 29 rugby and sports clubs affiliated to the NZ Marist Rugby Association and many thousands of volunteers and supporters work hard for their respective clubs and Kelly has been a driving force at Ardmore Marist for over 18 years".

Flavell was humbled by the recognition and thanked NZ Marist for the award.  "We are really lucky to have some very motivated volunteers who help keep the club moving forward and they work tirelessly behind the scenes".  she said  "I don't necessarily feel comfortable being singled out for recognition, but I am really honoured to have received this award.  I'm part of the team behind our teams!" Flavell explained.

Ardmore Marist is the largest rugby club in the Counties Manukau provincial union and plays an important role within the South Auckland community.  

If  you would like to join the many hundreds of volunteer coaches, managers and helpers at Ardmore Marist Rugby & Sports Club, please contact Kelly and find out how you can become part of our "team behind our teams".

Article added: Sunday 4 May 2019