One of New Zealand Greats to celebrate 100 Games

New Zealand rugby is acknowledging one of New Zealand and Wellington rugby’s favourite sons Rodney So’oialo who will mark his 100th Super Rugby game in front of his home crowd in Wellington tomorrow night.

The experienced and popular loose forward will make his 100th appearance in his 10th season for the Hurricanes against the Reds tomorrow night as they chase a semifinals spot in the Rebel Sport Super 14.

Fans are encouraged to stay behind at the conclusion of the match at Westpac Stadium for a special presentation for So’oialo.

So’oialo, 30, will become only the second to reach his 100th Super Rugby cap for the franchise, behind former Hurricanes and All Blacks Captain Tana Umaga who reached the milestone in 2005.

Coincidentally, So’oialo made his Super Rugby debut against the Reds in 2001, a year before he made his All Blacks debut. He has scored ten tries in his Super Rugby career which also includes 49 matches as Hurricanes captain. So’oialo has been a key figure in the Hurricanes’ campaigns which include a Final in 2006, and semifinals in 2003, 2005, 2008 and 2009.

New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRU) Chief Executive Steve Tew congratulated So’oialo.

“One hundred matches in this competition is a significant achievement for any player. This is a very special occasion as Rodney becomes the 12th New Zealand centurion joining Tana Umaga, Justin Marshall, Anton Oliver, Caleb Ralph, Greg Somerville, Reuben Thorne, Doug Howlett, Leon MacDonald, Justin Collins, Keven Mealamu and, most recently, Richie McCaw.

“Rodney’s commitment to the game, to New Zealand, and to the Hurricanes is admirable and I congratulate him on this fantastic new mark in his rugby career,” Mr Tew said.

Hurricanes Chief Executive Greg Peters said So’oialo’s strength and loyalty was a great asset to the franchise.

“Rodney shows his strength as a leader every time he pulls on the Hurricanes jersey. He has been an inspiration to his team-mates and a whole generation of young players who look up to him and what he has achieved. We congratulate him on his century and look forward to celebrating with a win tonight,” Mr Peters said.