TJ Perenara’s commitment to the Hurricanes and New Zealand rugby has never been questioned.
The 26-year-old halfback further proved that in 2017 when he extended his contract through until the end of 2021.
Now, one of Porirua’s favourite sons is about to bring up a major milestone when he runs out for his 100th match for the Hurricanes against the Highlanders at Westpac Stadium.
It’s a mark he admits to being really proud of having followed the Hurricanes since he was a young boy.
“The Canes are a team I have always supported,” he said. “Unfortunately I didn’t have the privilege of getting to a lot of their games as a kid but I definitely watched them, week in and week out.”
Growing up, Perenara said the fact that a number of Porirua boys had played prominent roles in the Hurricanes gave him hope that he too could follow in their footsteps and made the milestone even more special.
“They gave us hope that it didn’t matter where you came from, you could achieve your goals and that helped me kick on when I was younger and to give everything I had to make it in the game of rugby.
“Watching the Canes was always exciting, it made you want to be a part of it.”
The Mana College old boy, who has scored more tries than any other halfback in Super Rugby, said it was important to acknowledge the community support he received growing up and was thrilled he could bring up his 100th match at home at Westpac Stadium.
Perenara still remembers the first time he thought he might have a chance to play for the Hurricanes after being drafted into the Wellington Lions.
“Andre Bell gave me a call and asked me to come in and have the week with the boys. Getting that opportunity to play professional rugby at such a young age, it gave me that extra kick in the right direction that my dream could be a reality if I kept working hard.”
Now his focus was on facing the Highlanders who arrive at Westpac Stadium, which will feature an extra ‘0’ on the 10m lines to mark the occasion, unbeaten in 2018.
“At the moment this game is even more important to me than the accolade (of playing 100). When I look back on it I will be really proud of it but in the context of the season winning is more important to me right now.”