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    11 December 2017 - Christchurch, New Zealand
    Featured Story

    High School Rugby Player from New Zealand Excited to Play in South Africa

    His great grandfather, an All Black, did not have the opportunity

    17-year old Christchurch Boys' High School mid-fielder, Brigham Riwai-Couch, will be traveling to Capetown, South Africa in April to participate in the inaugural World Schools Tournament.

                      

    Photo Courtesy Martin Hunter-Christchurch Star

    In 1949, Brigham's great grandfather, a player for the All Blacks, was excluded from playing in the tour of South Africa because of apartheid. Ben Couch was one of three players who were not considered for the tour because they were Maori.

                              

    "It's a very humbling experience to be picked for the team," Brigham says. 

    "And in relation to my great grandpa, I feel like I'm righting a wrong that was done to my family, not just to him. It's a great honour to be able to do what my great grandpa was denied.

    "I'm really excited to perform the haka there. Being a proud Maori−proud of my culture−I feel I will also be representing my great grandfather, my tipuna and my school."

    Brigham and his family are members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

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    Style Guide Note:When reporting about The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, please use the complete name of the Church in the first reference. For more information on the use of the name of the Church, go to our online Style Guide.