Hi ,

On Monday, we lost one of the real ones — Adam Vardey. 

Former Northern United, Paramata Plimmerton, and Tawa rugby player for the ages. 

So many knew him as the machine in the gym or the bloke who’d always have your back on the rugby field. But what not everyone saw, was the way he gave so much of himself to others — especially the younger ones.

He had this quiet way of helping kids believe in themselves, whether it was through training, on the rugby field, or just in the way he carried himself — always backing the underdog, always lifting others up. 

That’s the thing about Adam — he saw things in people, in teams, that others missed. Like when he came across this rough-around-the-edges Tawa 80/80 side… we had heart, but not much direction. He couldn’t help himself — had to get stuck in. Not in a loud or showy way, just that classic Vardey approach: straight-up, a bit cheeky, but with real purpose behind it. 

A year later, after chasing it for a decade, we finally won the title. 

He was always good for a laugh, and never missed the chance for a cheeky jab — but it was always wrapped in love. He didn’t care who you were — if you needed a game plan, a gym session, or just someone to tell you to pull your head in — he was there. I know I copped a few of those “sort your shit out” chats over the years… and I’m better for every one of them. 

He just got people. Knew when to push, when to praise, and when to just shut up and let you find your way. And somehow, he always made you feel like you could do more — because he genuinely believed you could. 

Adam left his mark on so many of us. That smile, the banter, the energy — that’s not going anywhere. It’ll echo around then Porirua basin, and in the hearts of those of us lucky enough to have known him for ever. 

Love to his beautiful family and friends Rest easy, brother.

You were known by many, felt deeply by a few, and loved by more than you could ever imagine. 

Your Tawa Titan brothers - will never forget you. 

Much love always, xo

Sam Butters

Tawa Rugby Football Club