Young Maori Rugby Player Represents Country After His Grandfather Was Denied the Chance

'I feel like I'm righting a wrong that was done to my family, not just to him'

Brigham Riwai-Couch has traveled to South Africa to play in the Inaugural World Schools Tournament.

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.

Watch videos about Brigham by TVNZ News and Te Karere news program.

Photo Courtesy of One News

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.

"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. Brigham’s great grandfather, also a member of the Church, served a mission with his wife in the Cook Islands where they built the first chapel.

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