Touching moment for father-and-son combo
Andrew Walker and his son Dylan became the first father-and-son combination to play in the World Rugby Classic during Australia’s Plate final triumph on Saturday.
Dylan, who has cerebral palsy, enjoyed a ten minute cameo in the second half of the Wallabies’ 36-21 victory over Canada at the National Sports Centre, setting up his father’s second try with a smart pass.
It was a touching moment for Walker, who revealed after the game that it had been the first time he had shared the pitch with his 20-year-old son in 15s rugby.
“It certainly was a nice moment and will go down in history for both of us in our memories,” said Walker, who scored two tries and kicked a conversion.
“We’ve played sevens together but we’ve never played 15s and it was great to have an opportunity to play with him.”
Cerebral Palsy affects movement, posture and co-ordination, but Walker has always encouraged his son to never let his condition hold him back.
“He’s got a real good pass on him. He was born with cerebral palsy and I never took any pity on him and never treated him any differently.
“It was a great honour for the boys to put him on and let him play with his old man.”
Walker, a former duel code international, admitted the Wallabies were relieved to finish the Classic on a high note having suffered a shock defeat against USA in their opening match.
And he didn’t rule out making a return to Bermuda in the future, having “thoroughly loved” his first taste of the annual tournament.
“We started terrible against the USA but we found our feet and finished strong,” said the 39-year-old.
“It’s been my first Classic and I’ve thoroughly loved it. It’s been great playing alongside these blokes.
“I’d love to come back; it’s a great place and it’s been a week of good, competitive rugby. The atmosphere has been superb here all week.”