There are people who volunteer, and then there are people like Jacqui Smith.
For many years, Jacqui has been the heart and soul of the Raglan Junior Rugby Club. Since taking on the role of President in 2022, she has led our club with unwavering dedication and genuine love for junior rugby and the children who play it.
Jacqui’s journey with the club began long before she became President. She has watched two of her boys proudly wear the green and black jersey, both going on to represent the Southern Bears representative teams. Today, she still stands proudly on the sidelines supporting her youngest son as he plays in our 10th Grade team.
Over the years, Jacqui has managed countless teams, volunteered thousands of hours of her own time, travelled throughout the Waikato for late Sunday night meetings, organised registrations, sorted uniforms, chased sponsorship, applied for funding, coordinated volunteers, solved problems before anyone else even knew they existed, and quietly taken care of the endless behind-the-scenes jobs that keep a club running.
She has personally invested dollars into the club, never seeking recognition or praise—only wanting every child to have the opportunity to play rugby, belong to a team, and create lifelong memories.
Jacqui has always put our players first. Every decision she has made has come from a place of kindness, fairness, and a desire to give every child the best possible experience. Her heart has always been with the kids, and that is what has made her such an inspirational leader.
Many people see what happens on the field each Saturday. Few ever see the countless hours, late nights, phone calls, emails, meetings, fundraising, sponsorship applications, and planning that happen behind the scenes. Jacqui has carried so much of that workload with determination, resilience, and grace.
Calling her an absolute legend doesn’t even begin to describe the impact she has had on Raglan Junior Rugby Club.
As Jacqui steps down as President, we want her to know just how deeply appreciated she is. Her commitment, generosity, leadership, and passion have helped shape our club into what it is today. The lives she has touched and the opportunities she has created for hundreds of young rugby players will leave a legacy that will be felt for many years to come.
From every player, coach, manager, volunteer, parent, and whānau who has been fortunate enough to be part of this club during your time, thank you.
Thank you for believing in our kids.
Thank you for believing in our club
Thank you for giving so much of yourself.
Raglan Junior Rugby Club is stronger because of you, and your legacy will never be forgotten.
Thank you, Jacqui
