Farewell Marty Banks
We could always bank on Marty. Mako # 116, Marty Banks played 40 matches for Tasman since 2013, leading the Makos backline with guile while scoring a record 643 points at first five-eighth. A fan favourite, Marty is clearly the best number 10 to play for Tasman and was selected to the Makos Team of the Decade last year.
Looking back did you ever think you would have the Makos and Super rugby career that you have had?
After not initially being selected for the 2013 Makos squad I definitely didn’t think I would end up playing 4 season of NPC and 3 seasons of Super Rugby and have been a part of a couple of Championship teams.
Who are the standout players you’ve played with at the Makos, and who are the real characters?
My first couple of seasons were made a lot easier by having Tom Marshall at inside centre. I learnt heaps from him. Kieron Fonotia at outside centre has been one of my best mates and flat mate. He was always handy to have to send into brick walls when on attack. He has this weird idea that by hassling me pre-game it helps me to play better.
Your career points haul has helped to achieve many wins and contributed to the rise of the Makos, culminating with the 2013 Championship and making the 2014 Premiership final. What efforts particularly stand out in your mind?
Other than the Finals that we made, the two times we beat Canterbury in 2014 in the Premiership were pretty special to be part of. Also the match against Waikato in 2013 when the team played awesomely, some of our best footy ever, and we won by a big score (64 – 28).
This is your final season with the Makos as you depart overseas. What are your plans over there and once your playing days are over?
Playing overseas will allow me to play a few extra seasons in a different brand of rugby while experiencing a new culture. When I stop playing I’m considering coaching as an option.
What has being a Mako meant to you and any last words for the Makos faithful?
Being a Mako allowed me the opportunity to make some childhood dreams come true and play rugby as a job. It also allowed me to meet, play with and against some players I idolised growing up.
I thank the Tasman Union and supporters for making the past few years unforgettable and a time I will treasure for the rest of my life. Once a Mako, always a Mako. Fins up!
