Congratulations to all the winners who picked up prizes at the New Zealand Rugby League awards on Saturday night. Special mention must go to Aaron Jolley, who won the domestic player of the year award. Upon arriving on the stage, he said he was very nervous and that he was going to start off with a joke. Here it is: “How does the Mad Butcher introduce his wife? Meet Patty!” I thought it was very funny! Rotorua here I come. Saturday afternoon sees the Vodafone Warriors take on the Melbourne Storm at Rotorua International Stadium at 3pm. Yes, it’s only a trial game but it’s rugby league and I can’t wait. In fact, I’m so keen I’m travelling down on Thursday and I’m definitely looking forward to catching up with our Vodafone Warrior fans in Rotorua. The whole squad is travelling to Rotorua and I will be out signing autographs at the Thursday night markets too, so make sure you stop by and say hi. Lastly our thoughts go out to the people of Tonga and Samoa who have been hit by Cyclone Gita and who have suffered some terrible weather. I’m hearing the club has some big plans to help contribute to the New Zealand Red Cross relief fund. Stay tuned for an announcement soon.