Keith Davis facts for kids

Quick facts for kids
Keith Davis

Davis c. 1951
Date of birth	(1930-05-21)21 May 1930
Place of birth	Whakatane, New Zealand
Date of death	2 March 2019(2019-03-02) (aged 88)
Height	1.70 m (5.6 ft)
Weight	73 kg (161 lb)
School	Sacred Heart College, Auckland
Rugby union career
Position(s) Half-back Amateur team(s) Years Team Apps (Points) Provincial / State sides Years Team Apps (Points) 1952–58 1952–59 Auckland Auckland B 54 () National team(s) Years Team Apps (Points) 1952–58 1952–59 New Zealand Māori All Blacks 25 12

Keith Davis was a famous New Zealand rugby union player. He was born on May 21, 1930, and passed away on March 2, 2019. Keith played for both the main New Zealand team, known as the All Blacks, and the Māori All Blacks. He was a very talented player who made a big impact in rugby.

Keith Davis: A Rugby Star

Keith Davis played a special position called half-back. This player helps link the forwards and the backs on the field. He was known for his skill and dedication to the game.

Starting His Rugby Journey

Keith Davis started his rugby journey playing for the Auckland team. This was a big step in his career. In his very first game for Auckland, he helped his team win the Ranfurly Shield. The Ranfurly Shield is a very old and important trophy in New Zealand rugby. Teams challenge each other to win and hold onto it. Winning it in his first game was a fantastic start!

Playing for New Zealand

Keith Davis played for the All Blacks from 1952 to 1958. He also played for the Māori All Blacks during the same time. The Māori All Blacks is a special team made up of players with Māori heritage. Playing for both teams showed how skilled and important he was in New Zealand rugby.

During his time with the All Blacks, Keith played in many important matches. These included games against the strong South Africa team. He also played against the British Lions, a famous team from the United Kingdom and Ireland. These were some of the biggest games in rugby.

Awards and Retirement

Keith Davis was recognized for his amazing talent. He won the Tom French Cup three times in a row! This award is given to the best Māori rugby player of the year. He won it in 1952, 1953, and 1954. Winning it three times shows he was one of the top players of his time.

Keith Davis retired from playing rugby in 1959. He had a great career, making a lasting mark on New Zealand rugby. He passed away on March 2, 2019, at the age of 88.