Te Wānanga o Aotearoa Acknowledges the Passing of NZ Rugby League Great
 
Date: March 25, 2012

For Immediate release
 
Te Wānanga o Aotearoa today joined with many from around Aotearoa and the world in mourning the passing of “Tank” Anthony Ralph Gordon.
 
“Tank” was a former New Zealand rugby league coach, and player. He represented the Bay of Plenty in Rugby League and also the King Country in Rugby Union, playing at Full Back or Wing.
 
His coaching career also included stints in the UK where he coached the London Crusaders and Hull, and the Bay Of Plenty Rugby league side in New Zealand.
 
In recent years Tank was head of Tuia the union representing the majority of Te Wānanga o Aotearoa academic staff.
 
Te Wānanga o Aotearoa Pouhere (chief executive) Bentham Ohia said today was a sad day and marked the loss of an exceptionally talented man.
 
“Tank was a man who was hardworking, humble, and was committed to helping others.”
 
Mr Gordon had suffered declining health in recent years, but continued to advocate strongly for the staff he represented.
 
“Tank continued to use his range of skills to advocate for the best outcomes for those he represented. He remained passionate about his whanau and sport. His good humour and gentle warm nature will be greatly missed.
 
“Our aroha and support goes to the Gordon whanau at this very sad time.”
 
ENDS

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