Ben began playing rugby at Perth-Bayswater in the Under 6's back in 1997. As he progressed through the years into the older junior grades after playing in the mornings he then ran water for the Premier Grade team including the 2007 Premiership. This helped to instill a determination in Ben to one day achieve becoming a premier grade player himself.
Ben's talent as a hooker saw him selected for the Under 16 State Representative team in 2010. He went on to be selected for both the Under 18's State side and the Under 20's but unfortunately had to pull out through an ACL injury during the final state training. After recovery and returning to play Ben made his debut for the Premier Grade in May of 2015.
In 2017 Ben represented the club for the Foxtel Kick and Chase Gauntlet Challenge nailing it with his throwing expertise.
This Saturday will see Ben running out for his 100th Premier Grade Game and the Club could not be prouder of this thoroughly loyal Baysie man. He will join an elite group of 100 Gamers which includes older brother and captain Jake Buist.
One of Ben’s coaches Damien Wainohu had the below to say when asked to comment for Ben’s 100th:
I had the absolute pleasure of coaching Ben as a young determined Championship winning junior under 16s and Under 18s back in 2008 to 2011, as well as working with both Ben and Jacob in the premier grade in 2016 / 2017.
My first contact with Ben was an impressionable one, that not only resignated with myself as Coach but also continues to resignate with anyone who has had the absolute fortune of making Ben's acquaintance, from Ben's team mates to club members to his friends and loving supportive family.
Ben has a strong quietly confident, positive determined demeanor and dispostion to lead from the front to succeed and to lead by example both on and off the field that builds a natural comradary with team mates, family and friends that want to love and support him in all his endeavours. He is a leader of men and an positive example to all, and a testament to Ben's character and family that has placed him in good stead all these 100 games.
I feel I can speak on many peoples behalf when I say it has been an absolute pleasure to have had the opportunity to work with such a great individual on the field as a player, and off the field as a good friend.
I am sure Ben has made plenty of great long lasting memories and friends over the 100 games which he will cherish forever.
And as such I wish Ben all the very best and congratulate him on his 100th game for the club.
Whaia te iti kahurangi ki te tuohu koe he maunga teitei
- Seek the treasure you value most dearly; if you bow your head let it be before a lofty mountain.
• This whakatauki is about aiming high or for what is truly valuable, but its real message is to be persistent and do not let obstacles stop you reaching your goals.
