Fletcher Roy Christian, (10 October 1943 – 19 November 2024) was a New Zealand professional rugby league footballer who played in the 1960s and 1970s. A , he captained New Zealand in the sport. Christian also captained the New Zealand Māori rugby league team.[
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Early life and family
Christian was born in Auckland on 10 October 1943 to Norfolk Island parents, Leaonard Beaumont and Anna Matilda Christian.
In 1966, Christian married Robyn Cheryl Plant, and the couple went on to have two children.
Rugby league
During the 1965 Kangaroo tour of New Zealand Christian played on the wing in both Test matches against Australia. While playing for Otahuhu Leopards in 1966, Christian was awarded the Lipscombe Cup for Premier One sportsman of the year. However, injury caused him to miss the 1968 World Cup.
During the 1969 Kangaroo tour of New Zealand Christian played on the wing in the 2nd Test victory against Australia. He was then part of the Auckland side that defeated the tourists.[ 1969: Referee, and Kangaroos, crash Auckland Rugby League] He was appointed captain of the New Zealand national side in 1970 and played in that year's World Cup.[ Three Kiwi greats inducted into New Zealand Legends of League rleague.com, 17 April 2007]
During the 1971 Kangaroo tour of New Zealand Christian captained New Zealand from centre in the Test match victory against Australia at Carlaw Park.
In the 1972 Queen's Birthday Honours, Christian was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire, for services to rugby league football.
Presbyterian minister
Christian studied at the Presbyterian School of Ministry at Knox College in Dunedin, and became a minister of the Presbyterian Church in 1984.
Death
Christian died on 19 November 2024, at the age of 81.[ Kiwis mourn Roy Christian, legendary captain from historic tour]
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