BEN CLARKE SHIELD
The Ben Clarke Shield, played for annually between the Gropers and University was created by Ben's father John 'Stinker' Clarke, along with University player Paul Smith and University coach Tony Hogg. The picture shows Ben (d 2003) with Tana Umaga and Jonah Lomu (d 2015) at the SFS.
FORMATION OF GROPERS
Formed in 1978 as part of Port Hunter Rugby (Stockton), the Gropers were formally established in 1983 and celebrated 25 years in 2008. Photograph shows the original 1983 1st XV.
BEN CLARKE SHIELD
The Ben Clarke Shield, played for annually between the Gropers and University was created by Ben's father John 'Stinker' Clarke, along with University player Paul Smith and University coach Tony Hogg. The picture shows Ben (d 2003) with Tana Umaga and Jonah Lomu (d 2015) at the SFS.
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