HomeObjectsMen’s Team Interclub Touch Rugby: New Zealand Games for the Deaf

Men’s Team Interclub Touch Rugby: New Zealand Games for the Deaf

Donated by Auckland Deaf Society Inc. 1996 – Northern; 1998 – Northern; 2000 – Northern; 2001 – Northern; 2002 – Northern; 2003 – Northern A; 2005 – Northern; 2006 – Northern; 2007 – Central; 2008 – Northern; 2009 – Southern; 2010 – Northern.

Touch rugby was trialled at the 38th New Zealand Games for the Deaf in Wellington with mixed games on Monday 23 October 1995.

  • Deaf Organisations
  • Deaf Sports
NZSL story – Taonga source: Shona McGhie

Wearing Two Hats: Shona on Leading NZ Deaf Sports

Shona McGhie shares her experience in the 1980s and 90s juggling two roles. She was both Secretary of the NZ Deaf Sports Association and Administrator of the NZ Deaf Games. As Administrator, she ensured the host city met all requirements to run the Sports Convention smoothly. She organised meetings, AGMs, and worked closely with delegates on teams, rules, and bylaws. Shona held the role for three years, helping keep Deaf sport in New Zealand running strong.
NZSL story – Taonga source: Tony Walton

Where NZSL Thrives: The Power of Deaf Sport Gatherings

Tony Walton reflects on the importance of the NZ Deaf Games, once called the Sports Convention, held every Labour Weekend. It was more than just sport. It brought Deaf people together to socialise and sign in NZSL. Local delegates organised the event, while NZDSA awarded the Player of the Year and Aotearoa Turi Shield. A proposal to make the Games biennial was first rejected but later accepted. Looking back, Tony wishes it had stayed annual.
NZSL story – Taonga source: Shona McGhie

From Supporter to Secretary: Shona McGhie’s NZDSA Story

Shona McGhie shares how she became involved with the NZ Deaf Sports Association after attending the 1981 World Deaf Games in Köln as a supporter. Inspired, she accepted an invitation from Norman to observe an NZDSA executive meeting. They were looking for a new secretary, as Margaret Coutts had joined the organising committee for the 1989 Games. Shona was nervous but took on the role. She worked with basic green-and-black screen computers, fax machines, and letters. It was a demanding period, especially with the 1989 World Deaf Games ahead. Shona stayed in the role until 1996.

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Taonga source:
Auckland Deaf Society
Reference number:
SignDNA – Deaf National Archive New Zealand, 072-O-ADS
Note:
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