The Ben Clarke Memorial Shield will remain in Nelson Bay after the Gropers came out on top in Saturday's muddy clash with University at Bill Strong Oval.
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The match was played in front of a large home crowd at the newly upgraded Groperdome, despite the inclement weather.
The Bay showed plenty of character to win back the trophy after trailing 10-0 at half time. The first half produced some heated clashes with University having one of its forwards red carded, while the Bay lost two players to yellow cards for discretions.
In the second half, however, the Gropers rolled up their sleeves and worked their way back into the contest to post a shield winning score of 22-13.
The heavy conditions did not deter the home side who were happy to play an expansive style of rugby when the opportunities presented.
The Gropers forwards were tenacious throughout, with outstanding No. 8 Ben Pepper and hooker Cameron Rowse showing the way with strong performances in the middle.
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Centre Brenden Suttle was a constant threat out wide, while classy fullback Chad Northcott scored a try and had a strong game all round.
Nelson Bay's reserve grade side continued to be a competitive force before losing a close game 27-15.
Brothers Kade and Jake Redman were impressive while a proud dad looked on. The previously undefeated third grade side lost 24-5 to the competition favourites University. Best in a beaten team were Isaac Kneipp and Blake Fuller.
It was the 18th year the club had celebrated Ben Clarke Day, with friends of the Fingal Bay family, John and Ella Clarke and daughter Jodie, heading into Nelson Bay to watch the Gropers go up against traditional rivals Newcastle University.
The day has become a long standing tradition between the two clubs, and a chance to honour the Clarke family's contribution to the community and Ben's sterling work as a volunteer and his passion for the Nelson Bay club.
Diagnosed as a two-year-old with the rare, incurable genetic disorder, Hunters Syndrome MPS11, Ben was not expected to reach teenage years. He passed away in 2003 having celebrated his 21st birthday and has been honoured each year since with the memorial shield day.
Ben's parents John and Ella Clarke said they felt humbled and greatly appreciative by the support they received throughout the day by family friends and members and players of both Nelson bay and Newcastle university rugby clubs.
"The day was a wonderful expression of the respect that the rugby community continue to have for Ben. We are so thankful," said John.
On Saturday, May 28, the Nelson Bay Gropers will meet Lake Macquarie away at Walters Park Field.
