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John Bull and Buck Announce a World Beating Partnership

Mediacom

Monday 25 June 2007, 9:43AM

By Mediacom

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John Bull Footwear is proud to announce today that legendary All Black Wayne

“Buck” Shelford is to be the new face of the John Bull brand in New Zealand.


Shelford, a New Zealand legend, is characterised by his toughness, proven

ability and resilience. Buck’s legendry status on and off the field is

synonymous with the John Bull brand and will be promoted under the slogan

Tried. Tested. Proven.


Phillip Dewis, Blundstone Group Sales and Marketing Manager said of the

partnership “We’re delighted to be working with Buck. He has proven himself in

all walks of life. He is a truly inspiring personality and we are thrilled to

be working with him to make a difference in the community”


The All Blacks were unbeaten throughout Shelford’s illustrious captaincy from

1987-1990. Whilst crucial in building the foundations for an all conquering

team, Buck was also aware of the past, and responsible for teaching the team

the proper way to perform The Haka.


Shelford’s incredible power of endurance is probably best known for the

infamous match against France in 1986 known as the “Battle of Nantes”. During a

bloody game, Buck received a torn scrotum whilst in a scrum. This alone would

leave most men screaming in agony and heading for the nearest hospital, yet

Buck calmly instructed the physio to stitch him up, and he played on. Following

his retirement from international rugby in 1990, “Bring Back Buck” signs

produced by devoted fans appeared at sporting events all over the world, which

continues to this day.


Speaking of the partnership Shelford said “I’m really pleased to be working

with John Bull. Since I’ve hung up my boots, I’ve put on these boots instead!

As well as being a great Kiwi brand they also do a lot of good work in the

community, so I’m very happy to join the team”


The All Blacks will be looking to rekindle the glory days of the Shelford era

in France this September in the 2007 Rugby World Cup where New Zealand are the

run away favourites, and Buck and John Bull will be cheering them on all the

way.