Auckland Rugby mourns the loss of Sir Fred Allen
Sir Fred Allen. Photo by www.stuff.co.nz
Sir Frederick ‘Fred’ Richard Allen – 9 February 1920- 28 April 2012
The passing of Sir Fred Allen, Patron of Auckland Rugby and one of the rugby’s finest men has deeply saddened the Auckland Rugby community.
Sir Fred ‘The Needle’ Allen passed away earlier today at the age of 92, but his reputation as a player, coach, patron and patriarch of the game will live on for many years to come.
Sir Fred first played forAucklandin 1946 after serving in World War II and was an All Black from 1946-49. He later became a selector/coach ofAucklandfrom 1957-1963. This golden era featured an unbeaten run of 25 matches as holders of the Ranfurly Shield. From 1966-1968, Sir Fred coached the All Blacks for 37 international fixtures including 14 Test wins.
Auckland Rugby Chairman, Glenn Wahlstrom remembers the great man fondly. “Sir Fred was a real stalwart of the game. From the early days right through his twilight years, he attended many Auckland Rugby and later Blues fixtures, always ready with motivational words of encouragement for coaches and players.”
From 1972-1974, Sir Fred was President of Auckland Rugby. In 1981, he became an Auckland Rugby Life Member and was elected Patron of the union in 2003 – a position he held with pride and respect. He became a Life Member of NZRU in 2006 and in 2010, Sir Fred was made a Companion Knight of the Order ofNew Zealand.
“He was such a popular and hugely respected member of the Auckland Rugby fraternity, contributing to the union well beyond his playing and coaching days. Sir Fred coached great names of the game such as Waka Nathan and Sir Wilson Whineray and his legacy both as a coach and player will never be forgotten,” said Mr Wahlstrom today.
On behalf of the Auckland Rugby community, our sincerest condolences are passed on to Sir Fred’s family – he will be sadly missed.
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