At an HKRU Awards event over the weekend, Richard “Cookie” Cooke was recognised as an outstanding contributor to rugby in Hong Kong when he received a Services to the International Game award.
Richard has been an instrumental figure both in international and domestic rugby for at least 24 years. He played scrum half, believe it or not, for the original Aberdeen Premiership team way back in 1996 and has lead the way through transitions into HKCC and now HKU Sandy Bay RFC.
It was a proud moment for Richard and likewise for all his friends, family and clubmates.
Expressing his gratitude on Facebook with a rare public post, Cookie gushed, “I am incredibly honoured and humbled to have received this award from the HKRU and most especially from Dai Rees, a very loyal and close friend. Thanks to everyone that I have worked with over the years. It's never occurred to me, not to help wherever and whenever I can. I count myself incredibly fortunate to have had such great role models like, Mick Hempstead, who inspired me when I was 15 years old to simply give what you can. Thanks again, first 24 years in Hong Kong have been a blast, let's hope the next 24 are half as good again”
Richard stands as a shining beacon for others to aspire to when it comes to selflessness, contribution and leadership. Globally, rugby still depends on characters that continue “putting in”, long after their boots have been found in the bins at their home ground.
On behalf of Sandy Bay RFC, we also salute and very much appreciate the time, consideration, contribution and sweat that Cookie has put into this club as well as the international game.
Richard Cooke, a brief summary:
2 stints as HKRU Director totalling 8 years achievements beyond normal duties
Outside the Board
At Club level