In the early days of the 1961 rugby season, a young sports reporter named Gary Frew from the 'Northern Advocate' received a phone call. The caller, a friend, asked Gary to travel to Maromaku on a Saturday to check out the club's new halfback. Gary was asked to bring Ted Griffin, a revered coach, along. This seemingly ordinary request turned into a historic moment for rugby in New Zealand. The player in question was Sidney Milton Going, a name that would become synonymous with brilliance on the rugby field.

From his debut in the early 1960s until his retirement in the late 1970s, Sid Going, affectionately known as 'Super Sid', captivated rugby fans worldwide. His exceptional talent in open running rugby brought excitement and energy to every game he played. Newspapers sold thousands of extra copies whenever his name appeared in match reports, a testament to his immense popularity and impact on the sport.

Sid Going's rugby journey began in earnest when he made his debut for North Auckland in 1962. His path was temporarily interrupted when he served as a missionary for the Church of Latter-Day Saints in the USA, but he returned in 1965 and immediately rejoined the North Auckland side. His career took off, and he soon became a fixture in both the provincial and national teams.

In 1967, Sid earned his place in the All Blacks, debuting against Australia in a memorable Jubilee test. Over the years, he toured extensively, playing in numerous international matches, and becoming known for his tactical brilliance and electrifying style. Sid's performances were so influential that his teammate and future captain, Ian Kirkpatrick, considered him an essential part of the team's success.

The 1970s saw Sid at the peak of his career, leading North Auckland to significant victories and playing crucial roles in international tours. His dynamic partnership with his brothers, Brian, and Ken, led to the famous 'Going triple scissors movement', a spectacular display of passing and side-stepping that left opponents in awe.

Despite facing criticism and challenges, Sid's dedication to rugby never wavered. His contributions extended beyond the field, coaching, and mentoring young players, and remaining actively involved with his club, Mid Northern. Sid's influence on Northland rugby was profound, earning him life membership in the North Auckland Rugby Football Union and solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest players the region has ever seen.

“It has been an absolute privilege and honour to share in the recognition and celebration of a taonga of our game in Northland. To understand the character of Sid beyond his super playing prowess, simply adds more to the mana with which we cherish his legacy. Fiercelessly competitive, yet a man who cherished his wife Colleen, his beautiful whānau and his faith above all else. 

While the weather at Sid’s service reflected the sorrow of our province, and that of the rugby nation, as the sun dawns on Te Tai Tokerau we have the opportunity to celebrate Super Sid’s legacy by playing in a manner and style that celebrates the Going whānau in the seasons ahead – it is what makes Northland rugby so unique.” 
- Cameron Bell, CEO Northland Rugby Union

As we remember Sid Going, we celebrate not just a rugby legend but a man whose character and contributions transcended the sport. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations, and his memory will forever be cherished in the hearts of rugby fans in Northland and beyond.

Rest in peace, Super Sid. Your brilliance and spirit will never be forgotten.

“It is highly doubtful if any other player has had such a profound effect on the rugby fraternity in any area of the country as Sid has had here in North Auckland.”
- Ted Griffin

Article added: Wednesday 22 May 2024