A man who was instrumental in building the sport of rugby in Newfoundland will be honoured by the national sport governing body this weekend.

The Rugby Canada Chair’s Award will be presented to Noel Browne at the Swilers Club tomorrow night. The award is given to individuals or groups who have made exceptional contributions to the sport in Canada.

Rugby Canada Chair Tim Powers says that without Dr. Browne, the sport may never have taken root in the province.

He told VOCM Open Line with Darrell Power that Dr. Browne is the heart and soul of Newfoundland rugby.

He says Browne started rugby with Mike Luke, Frank Deacy and some others in the 1970s. He captained a team which won a silver medal at a national championship, he went on to play for his country on two occasions, and he coached the team which won a silver medal in the nationals in 1987.