Havili wins Sportsman of the Year

It wasn't long ago that David Havili nearly lost his entire bowel and his rugby career.

Emergency surgery in 2020 saw David get a 20cm infection removed from his bowel and left his future uncertain.

However, David made a rapid recovery and career best form has elevated him to one of the best midfielders in the country.

David's successes both on and off the field were acknowledged with the New Zealand Community Trust Sportsman of the Year award at the ASB Nelson Sports Awards.

"Pretty blown away, there are a lot of deserving sportsmen out there in our region putting their hand up."

David says he hopes his journey can show other local youth they can stay in Nelson and still succeed in their sport.

"There is a pathway, we have a great system around us here in Nelson and there is no place you'd rather be than home and playing at the top level."

After a three year absence for the All Blacks, Havili was recalled to the national side this season, scoring a double in his return against Fiji.

"To have that time out of the jersey really made me realise how much I wanted to be back in it."

The former Nelson College student has also been a hugely influential member of the Mako, leading the side to back-to-back premiership titles in 2019 and 2020.

Speaking after the historic 13-12 win over Auckland, David said it was a surreal feeling.

"To bring it home to our franchise and our wee city is pretty special.”

It was Havili who would ultimately seal the victory with a penalty and turnover in the final minute.

He let out a roar of emotion as he stood over his defeated opposition.

The reaction was the culmination of a difficult season for Havili.

“I’ve been through a bit of a tough year this year and it just came out in that moment.”