Sgt. Matt Ratana Honoured At East Grinstead Rugby Club, Where He Coached

East Grinstead Rugby Club and the Metropolitan Police have, as one, unveiled a memorial to Matt Ratana, who was killed while on duty in Croydon last September.

The television report you can see by clicking above is how Sgt. Ratana's birth country, New Zealand, heard about Saturday's ceremony.

Lloyd Burr, Europe Correspondent for 'Newshub' (TV3) produced the film (shared here from his Facebook page), after observing the memorial silhouette being unveiled at the club where Matt Ratana was Head Coach.

Sgt. Ratana's partner Su Bushby said:

"I am filled with so much pride and honour to be here, but that also comes with a sense of mourning and deep sorrow that Matt is not with us today and that cannot be forgotten.

"However, we are here to celebrate Matt’s life and achievements and I am absolutely delighted to be part of this commemoration."

“I want to talk about the man I knew and loved and what his beloved game meant to him.

"Since his death I have been overwhelmed by the respect and kindness from his colleagues and players at all levels.

"The guy you loved to work with, a coach on the pitch but a best mate in the club house.

"A role model, a mentor and a friend ... my partner.”

“Matt’s true desire was to inspire people and develop rugby talent within the player.

"I didn’t just see a coach but someone who was knowledgeable, supportive, positive and respectful.”

His Honour Jeff Blackett, President of the Rugby Football Union added:

“As RFU President, it is an honour to be here today with our Chief Executive, Bill Sweeney.”

“We are privileged to be included in this gathering because Matt Ratana represented all that is best in rugby union and epitomised our core values of Teamwork, Respect, Enjoyment, Discipline and Sportsmanship.

"He was a true team player, generous with his time and an inspiration to others.”

“Men, boys, women, girls, all players mattered to Matt who broke down barriers and led in a way that motivated everyone he coached and encouraged.”

“When he was given the BBC Sports Personality 2020 Unsung Hero award, it was a tremendously appropriate recognition.

"That recognition of all he stood for and his importance to this club and our game continues with the unveiling of this statue today.”

“Matt made a real difference and left a huge legacy and I am delighted that his legacy will continue here at East Grinstead and in the wider rugby family.”

Andy Poole, President of East Grinstead RFC said:

“Matt Ratana was an inspiration to us all.

"His approach and passion to community rugby both on and off the pitch will resonate forever as a positive legacy – not just for East Grinstead RFC, but to every person that crossed his path.

"The silhouette not only celebrates Matt’s importance as Head Coach to Su and all his friends at the club but is a fitting tribute which will enrich his memory and remind us all that he is always with us on our journey."

The six-foot life-size steel artwork was commissioned by East Grinstead Rugby Club and positioned on top of the grass bank to the side of the first team pitch, a place where Matt would spend many hours coaching and observing the matches.

Beneath the figure is a granite plaque engraved in silver which reads:

“Here stood our dear friend and Head Coach Matt Ratana who sadly passed away on 25th September 2020.

"Our Unsung Hero who will never be forgotten. Whánau. East Grinstead RFC.”