At 84, George Wilson remains a giant of Border rugby, not only because of his imposing 6 ft 4 frame, but because of the character and humility that have defined his life both on and off the field.
Wilson’s rugby journey began in 1961 at the age of 12, marking the start of a career that would see him become one of Border’s most respected players.
Beginning as a scrumhalf before switching to flyhalf, he eventually found his calling in the loose forwards, where his toughness, work ethic and determination earned him a place among the province’s finest.
He went on to play about 80 matches for Border during an era when provincial fixtures were few and every game demanded immense physical commitment.
At club level, he became a Hamilton’s Rugby Club stalwart, representing the side from 1961 to 1979.
His career placed him shoulder-to-shoulder with some of rugby’s greatest names. In 1974, he faced the unbeaten British and Irish Lions and played against legends including Gareth Edwards, Phil Bennett, JPR Williams and Colin Meads.
“It was a different game. Every day was a training day,” Wilson said.
While his achievements on the rugby field are impressive, it is his kindness and generosity that have earned him lasting admiration.
Long-time friend Mike Godfrey first met Wilson while serving refreshments in the Border Rugby Union changing rooms.
“George would always come in after the game and order a whole tray of Coca-Colas for the players,” he said.
“He’s always loved his Coca-Cola.”
Their paths later crossed on the field in 1977 when Godfrey played against Wilson’s Hamilton’s side.
“I was honoured to play against him, and we’ve remained friends ever since,” he said.
Godfrey credits Wilson as one of the people who inspired him to reach provincial rugby.
“He was one of my mentors at club level. George always led by example.”
Wilson still reflects fondly on the physical demands of rugby in his era.
“When I played, I weighed about 230 pounds. Today I’m around 114kg.
“I could run 100m in about 14 seconds — now it takes me closer to five minutes,” he joked.
Today, Wilson continues to make an impact far beyond rugby.
Living in Cintsa West, he helped build a pathway to the beach to make it easier for elderly residents to access the shoreline.
His advice to aspiring players remains simple but timeless: “Size does count, especially in the pack, but speed is always your advantage.”
Describing himself as “blessed beyond words”, Wilson says he has no regrets about the life rugby gave him.
