Have you ever watched the test match rugby and heard commentary around how the backs should be running the ball and attacking different lines? This ex Wallaby is renown as an astute tactical thinker and one of the best technical readers of the game.
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For those who haven't guessed our guest speaker yet, the Grenfell Rugby Club is proud to welcome Rod Kafer to our town. Rod will join an exclusive list of guest speakers we've had which include Peter Fitzsimmons, Nick Farr-Jones, Phil Kearns and Eddie Jones among others.
After starting off in the ACT junior grades at West's in Canberra, Rod progressed through the senior grade ranks quickly and was soon the West's first grade fullback.
This team also included one Stephen Larkham as halfback on occasions. Locals may also remember our own Brook Butler who also played at the Lions.
Rod then made his way to the ACT Kookaburras team. The ACT Kookaburras were the precursor to the six time finalists and two time winning Super Rugby team, the Brumbies.
Rod's ability from fullback to organise defensive lines and arrange attacking raids saw him spoken about for Wallaby selection.
After making his test debut in 1999 Rod was selected in the Wallabies RWC squad the same year in which they were victorious over France. Rod scored a try in the romp over Romania in the group stage.
Across 1999 and 2000 Rod was capped 12 times for the Wallabies.
Rod then played in England with the Saracens club and after the sudden exit of the head coach he retired and took on the position.
It was then he ended up behind the mic and he can be heard giving sideline commentary and expert views on Fox during the year.
Without spoiling any stories he may have, come along and join the Grenfell Panthers on Saturday, March 14 at the Grenfell Bowling Club and hear Rod speak.
The night begins at 6pm and will cost $50 a head which includes a two course meal, plenty of fellowship and a chance to hear some behind the scenes stories from a Wallaby great.
As there are limited seats available, organisers urge people to RSVP as soon as possible.
Grenfell Rugby Union Club Secretary Joshua Taylor said this is a one off fundraising night for the club which was organised with the help of their sponsors.
Mr Taylor said the money raised will go towards the club's running costs throughout the year and improvements around the ground such as the new lights.
To RSVP for the night or for general inquiries call Joshua Taylor on 0427 951 125.
The 2020 rugby union season is expected to start around the middle of April.
Mr Taylor said they will publish the season's draw when it is finalised and for people to keep an eye on the Grenfell Rugby Union Club's website.
The Panthers' first grade finished last season in seventh place after a 27 to 24 win against the Harden Red Devils.
In the 2020 season, Grenfell Rugby Union Club will also be fielding a team in the women's tackle rugby in the Central West Competition.
According to an information session held on Sunday November 10 the games will be played on Saturdays before the men's competition.
Anyone turning 16 and older in 2020 are eligible to be a part of the Pink Panthers team.
