A tribute match for legend Ack Weyman finished with a win for the Moruya Sharks on Saturday, March 14.
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The former council worker, sporting club and community stalwart died in November. His legacy lived on through the inaugural Ack Weyman Memorial Shield against Boorowa.
It was the first game since his death, on the field which bears his name. Mr Weyman's wife, two sons and daughter were there with their families.
Captain-coach of Boorowa, and Mr Weyman's nephew, stood by his team alongside the Sharks in the centre of the ground for the ceremony.
A moment was taken to remember their great mate and honour his wish to have his ashes spread on "the hallowed turf". Pigeons were released before everyone took to the field to play with heart.
The game was played in four 20-minute quarters. The first quarter and halfway through the second were tight. The Sharks scored two quick tries and got roll on. Boorowa scored a few late consolation tries, but the Sharks were too strong, winning 28-16.
The earlier women's league match ended in a draw, 20-20.
The shield was presented by Ack Weyman's grandsons.
Group 16 board member and Moruya Sharks life member, John Cornall, congratulated both clubs for the tribute and made a special announcement: "Ack was a great ambassador for rugby league and was always the first to put up his hand to volunteer whether for his beloved Sharks, Group 16 reps, or for any other worthy cause within his community."
To continue Mr Weyman's legacy, Mr Cornall announced that the annual Group 16 volunteer of the year award will be renamed 'The Ack Weyman Volunteer of the Year'.
"A new shield has been commissioned to ensure that Ack's name will live on within the Group 16 Rugby league community," he said.
As of 2pm on Tuesday at least three Group 16 clubs reported they had been directed to cease training runs by NSWRL as a public health precaution with coronavirus.
The Sharks said they will stand down training until further notice and their scheduled trial game against Gunghalin Bulls this weekend has been cancelled.
READ MORE: Group 16 training stood down by NSWRL