GARY Teichmann will leave at the end of the month with the reception the team received after winning the cup still ringing in his ears. And to ensure the memory never fades, your Argus has presented him with a large framed photograph of himself holding the cup aloft on the shoulders of his teammates.

"I didn't expect it. The cup coming back to the club with that support was something we didn't even get in South Africa because it's not as personal as it is here," said Teichmann.

"The support has been great. I always try to give my best which is the most anyone can ask.

"But it has all been far more than I would have thought and I'll be sad to leave, though it's even harder for my wife.

"It's the rugby player stopping me from staying because I didn't want to push it one more year."

Teichmann admits coming to Newport gave him one final challenge and extended his career, though he warns those who may follow him to Wales that it is no easy ride.

"I would have played maybe one more Super 12 season and called it a day, but this has given me an extra two years," he said.

"It's worked out well, but it's unreal if you arrive and think it's going to be a cruise.

"I'd say to any overseas player, it's hard work. We've been through tough times at Newport, but come through, and winning the cup is something to show for it.

"It's always nice to go home having won something. When you've got a bit of silverware it's great, but more importantly it takes the pressure off the team next year."

And, pouring scorn on suggestions he is returning to Newport or anywhere else to coach, he added: "I'd hate to see the team go backwards. I've made good friends with a lot of players and the management, but that's not saying I'll come back to coach.

"I'll stay involved and I'd like to think I'll do some coaching. You never know, a year out of rugby is a long time, we'll just wait and see."

Newport chief executive Tony Brown, who brought Teichmann to Rodney Parade, pays him a glowing tribute.

"I do believe many, many great players have been at Newport and done wonderful things, but Gary has got to be up there with the all time greats," he said.

"Knowing Gary as I do he'll look to see what the Newport results are and I'd be very disappointed if we don't see him pay a visit to Newport a couple of weekends next season.

"I had a huge feeling of sadness the last time I saw Gary wearing the Newport shirt, but thank God we won the cup for him.

"I'd like to pay tribute to him for the credibility he brought to Newport which means everyone now takes us much more seriously."