One-test All Black Norman Berryman dead at 42

WELLINGTON, New Zealand (AP) — New Zealand Rugby says Norman Berryman, who played one test for the All Blacks and won three Super Rugby titles with the Christchurch-based Crusaders, died Tuesday aged 42.

Berryman was living in Perth, Australia and the cause of death was said to be a heart attack.

A powerfully-built winger and a fan favorite for his equally large personality, Berryman played his only match for New Zealand as a replacement against South Africa in 1998. He played more than 30 Super Rugby matches for the Crusaders and 70 matches for Northland province.

Northland Rugby Union chief executive said Berryman was a "cult and folk hero" who "showed you can grow up anywhere and make it into the All Blacks."

"He was a shining light in that if you're talented and you persevere, you can succeed," Parkinson said.

-- (c) Associated Press 2015-06-23

Loved watching stormin' Norman when I was younger. A people's hero. Not dissimilar from Jerry Collins in that regard.

In a vague kind of way, I compared Normie with Artie Beetson - both very much their own men, but with charisma to burn and loved by everyone. RIP, Normie.