Tribute to Nick Tooth by Ed Nankerville

Nick Tooth Tribute

Nicko burst into our lives in the Quirindi under 6’s.

Wearing the Quirindi blue and white it was famed around the districts.

Bright eyed and bushy tailed a young flanker graced the field.

It was all agreed that the fate of this young team was all but done and sealed.

We lost some games; we won some too then lost a couple more.

Skinny legs, black eyes and our mother’s voices going hoarse.

Skill and talent out the door we were just trying to catch the ball.

 

Fast forward a couple of decades this young flanker has become a man.

From Wallabadah to Woollahra Nick’s presence will forever stand.

A laugh on the lips, wild look in his eye and spring in Nicko’s step.

A mate by his side a beer in his hand where his most common personal effects.

Always primed for adventure this young colleague from Wallabadah.

Cruising around the country races his beloved champagne coloured car.

He’s the life of the party with the jokes coming with pace and precision.

A wild night with great friends was his every weekend tradition.

When those made of weaker stuff had all tottered of to bed.

You can guarantee that Nick will still be up telling yarns instead.

 

Well renowned by the Sydney crowds for his busted nose, cheeky grin and awesome stamina

The perfect gentleman, your mum’s favourite friend and an incredible judge of character.

A family man, a loving brother, your best mate and my partner in crime.

I have never met one so happy, so content so willing to give some one time.

Blessed with patience, kindness, confidence, humility and great wit.

You never feel more valued than when you’re conversing with our Nick.

And on this day of ladies its for all of you I shed a tear.

Because one of Colleagues finest couldn’t make it here.

The world feels significantly more naked as it was stripped of this great soul.

And in this time of sadness we look to friendship and family to fill this gaping hole.

Everyone’s best mate sits up there looking down.

All that comes to mind is, I hope we do him proud.

 

The Quirindi Lions, Colleagues and the Eastern Suburbs Club lost a mighty teammate.

But takes some solace that they received a friendship that no-one else can relate.

As my tribute ends I want all to ponder and consider.

That we uphold and remember him as one of life’s true givers.

One last thought that makes me smile.

There is one thing that I know for sure and completely have no doubt.

Nicko is sitting up in heaven and he’d probably have Ghandi and Elvis in a shout.

So with that happy thought I leave this is audience be.

So grab your champers, beer and cider and raise your glass with me.

And take a minute to remember one of the greatest that has and ever will be.