Our
supporters first cast their eye upon Gavin in October, 2003, when the mightily
impressive Orrell team beat us 48-12 at the Mennaye Field, Penzance. Coached
by Ross Reynolds, with Jim McKay as Assistant, they played some wonderful rugby,
Richard Welding and Wade Kelly also in their line-up, and Gavin notching one of
their seven tries scored in the match. However, at the end of the season Dave
Whelan withdrew his investment in Orrell and not surprisingly most of the personnel
departed, including Gavin. A brief move to Rotherham followed,
but the club had serious financial problems following their relegation from the
Zurich Premiership. The offer of a move to Cornwall was
made, which Gavin wisely accepted, and he made his debut for us away to Pertemps
Bees in September, 2004. He made 17 appearances for us that season, scoring 5
tries in the process. Last season he featured in 24 games, despite missing the
start because of injury, and scored 7 tries – though many would make that
figure 8, remembering his disallowed effort against Exeter! Admired
throughout the division, Gavin was selected in the ‘Rugby Times’ National
1 Dream Team of the Year, a just reward for his honesty, 100 % work ethic, and
his inspiration ability. He was also presented with our
‘Player of the Year’, Sportsman of the Year’, and ‘Travelling
Supporters Player of the Year’ awards – all, of course, richly deserved,
though proving somewhat embarrassing to this most modest of men. |
