Kronfeld takes audience on ‘rugby journey’

“Never stop listening to learn and be proud of who you are and where you come from” were some of the inspirational words by national sports awards guest speaker Josh Kronfeld.

The former All Black’s speech on his ‘rugby journey’ was filled with hilarious reminiscences from his long love affair with rugby had the packed out Aroa Nui Hall in stitches on Tuesday night.

Before getting into his speech though, Kronfeld said he wanted his 18-month old son Cassius, who was being passed around the hall from aunty to aunty, back in his arms at the end of the night.

In fact, Cassius proved to be a hit with the sports award crowd and had more photos taken of him taken than his famous father did.

Kronfeld encouraged youth to get into sport any sport.

“I love rugby,” says Kronfeld.

“I’ve loved rugby since I started playing when I was 10-years-old. It’s part of what has made me who I am today.”

He said that if he wasn’t broken he’d still be playing the game he loves.

When he was 10-years-old Kronfeld questioned his father as to why his team always lost and never won a game.

“My father said to me, son, no matter how hard you try I’ll still be proud of you.

“And this became a mantra for me in my playing days.”

He also encouraged the wider community to never stop listening and learning.

“You never know when someone might offer up some knowledge that can lift your game.”

He then shared his favourite mantra go hard!

Kronfeld also thanked the sponsors who made is possible for him and his family to be part of the sports awards including good friend David Bridge of Air New Zealand, Edgewater Resort & Spa, Budget Rentals and the Cook Islands Sports and National Olympic Committee.

And for the record yes, Josh and Bronwyn did manage to track down their bouncy baby before they went home.