Gajic nominated for Mitsubishi Motors Volunteer of the Year

“We’ve had our ups and downs, but to be where we are now, with the first team playing Level 8 rugby, a regular second team and an occasional third team, really is something to be proud of.” Nik Gajic

The club treasurer is in the running for the inaugural Mitsubishi Motors Volunteer of the Year for his tireless efforts for the Griff and Coton-based club.
For 36 years, Gajic has been associated with the club holding almost every role behind the scenes during his years of services as well as amassing more than 650 appearances.
“I’ve loved every minute of it,” said Gajic. “I joined Manor Park in 1981 and I’ve been associated wit the club ever since.
“We’ve had our ups and downs, but to be where we are now, with the first team playing Level 8 rugby, a regular second team and an occasional third team, really is something to be proud of.
“When you stop playing the sport you love, you can miss the buzz, and while nothing replaces playing, doing what you can to help better your club – whether it be something big or small – keeps you in the loop and involved in that special environment of rugby union.
“Especially at a club as unique and diverse as Manor Park RFC.”
As a player, Gajic twice captained the club in 1985/86 and 1993/94. Scoring more than 220 tries in a prolific playing career, he picked up numerous awards such as Most Improved Player and Player of the Year.
Off the field he has continued to be an invaluable contributor to the Manor Park cause, holding roles such as; press officer, secretary, chairman and is the current treasurer and a life member.
Gajic has been invited to Broadstreet RFC on June 23, one of 42 such events taking place around the country – with one representative from each event going through to the national event at Twickenham on Friday, September 15.
Manor Park chairman Matt Marston, who succeeded Nick Bishop at the club’s recent AGM, has been teammates and a fellow clubman with Gajic for 20 years.
He said: “Gaj is a stalwart of this club and someone we have come dependent upon.
“The amount of things he has done for the club during and after his playing days is an example to anyone about commitment and loyalty.
“We wish him all the best with his nomination and hope he is successful.”

Updated 19:07 - 6 Sep 2019 by Bobby Bridge