HE DID THE REST

(For Barry John - Rugby Legend)

Never a man

To overcomplicate matters

"Chuck me the ball

And I'll do the rest"

His simple philosophy

Retiring before the age of 28

Because he'd had enough

Already a lifetime's worth

Of achievements to contemplate

In the decades that followed.

 

In New Zealand

They called him 'The King'

Back in Wales

A girl curtsied

It didn't feel right

A world class player

It goes without saying

Mention of his name

Guaranteed to raise a smile or tear

Very often both.

 

Farewell King Barry

Never to be forgotten

Hero of the red shirt

And the red dragon

Breaker of opponents hearts

Maker of memories

Magician of the rugby field

As requested

They chucked him the ball

And he did the rest.

 

David Subacchi

February 2024.