The first Indian representative rugby league team, the Indian Jungle Cats, played their first international match against Columbia on Sunday 14th July at WJ Scott Park, Holland Park, Brisbane to which they came away with a 30 – 16 win.

Over half the full 18-man Jungle Cats squad was made up of New Zealand players who play in the Ethnic Rugby League Competition (ERL) including the coach Tony Tietie, who coached the very first Counties Manukau Indian team – a testament to the hard work and dedication that’s gone into growing New Zealand’s ethnic community game.

The Ethnic Rugby League Competition (ERL) was founded by Kasey King, General Manager Counties Manukau Rugby League (CMRL) over six years ago and the development of the competition was largely assisted by the leadership group formed from participating teams and the very first player recruited, Joshua Naidu. The ERL provides a platform for ethnic minorities, i.e. anyone of Indian, Asian, African or Middle Eastern descent, to develop their skills and regularly play the game.

Since 2013, the ERL competition has gone from a two-team, best of three-game series to a four-team, 4 – 6 week competition and 5 team Nine aside tournament with representative teams selected to compete in the annual Cabramatta Nines, held in Sydney Australia.

In 2016 discussion between CMRL and NRL occurred, exploring opportunities of international Indian representation and although it did not eventuate, the seed was planted. The Indian Jungle Cats team was formed by Nick Samra (AUS), Joshua Naidu (NZ) and Shaniyat Chowdhury (USA) upon a suggestion from Queensland Rugby League in September 2018.  In less than a year, they’ve played their first international match against Colombia Rugby League who is ranked 41st in the world and have already played international fixtures.

Nigel Vagana, GM of Football and Well-being at New Zealand Rugby League, says this is a significant milestone for New Zealand’s ethnic community game.

“We’re really fortunate to have people from all walks of life involved in rugby league. The ERL has shaped some impressive players in a very short time, with international representation in several countries such as; Philipines, Thailand, Hong Kong and now India. It’s exciting this talent gets to be showcased at an international level on Sunday.

“We’re looking to further develop Indian Rugby League at both a grassroots and representative level, as well as provide more opportunities for our ethnic players going forward. We’d like to see other minority ethnicities follow suit and front representative teams in the future as well.

“Overall, this is a really exciting time, not only for our Indian players but all involved in the ERL.”

Richard Becht & Photosport.nz

The Warriors have pulled off a huge coup by signing New Zealand sporting superstar, Honey Hireme to headline their 22-strong squad for the second WNRL Premiership starting September.

The double rugby league-rugby union international and current Kiwi Ferns captain has been secured after appearing for the St George Illawarra Dragons in the inaugural WNRL last season.

“We’re absolutely thrilled to have Honey in our squad this year,” said Warriors head coach Luisa Avaiki.

“She’s a great athlete and an outstanding performer in all her sports.

“Honey is a fantastic example with the way she goes about her career, still maintaining the highest standards even after all the years she has been competing at the highest level.”

The 38-year-old Putaruru-born Hireme was again in superb form leading the Kiwi Ferns to a 46-8 win over Fetu Samoa at Mount Smart Stadium on June 22. She scored two tries and made 214 metres from 19 runs.

A disability sport adviser in Hamilton, Hireme is the standout signing in the Warriors’ 2019 squad. One of 11 new faces signed, she’s also one of 16 players who were in last month’s Kiwi Ferns and Fetu Samoa Test squads.

Among the other newcomers are former Fiji rugby union sevens stars Roela Radiniyavuni and Timaima Ravisa who clinched contracts after originally being scouted in Fiji. They’ve both being playing in the Auckland club competition this season.

Another new signing is Canterbury’s Charntay Poko, who made her Test debut in the halves against Samoa, while experienced former Kiwi Ferns winger Atawhai Tupaea makes a return to top-level football after giving birth to her second child.

Mosgiel-born Jules Newman, a 30-year-old cultural strategist, has been signed after she switched to rugby league from rugby union only three months ago. She immediately impressed in the code earning selection in the Kiwi Ferns’ 19-strong Test squad to face Samoa.

Apart from Hireme and Newman, other occupations listed by the squad members include mother, police, fitness co-ordinator, teacher aide, youth justice, student liaison officer, student, community co-ordinator, customer support and freight logistics.

Avaiki, who has Kiwi Ferns head coach Justin Morgan as assistant coach this season, said the squad would assemble in early August to train ahead of the WNRL starting on September 13-14.

She said the players’ focus had been on local club football. A big contingent of the signed players will be involved in the Auckland grand final between the Richmond Roses and Papakura Sisters at Mount Smart Stadium No 2 on Sunday (2.30pm kick-off).

Next on the agenda is the New Zealand Rugby League’s national women’s tournament at Bruce Pulman Park in Papakura from July 26-28.

 

WARRIORS SQUAD | 2019 WNRL

BILLY JEAN ALE (Akarana, Mount Albert Lions)

MADISON BARTLETT (Akarana, Richmond Roses)

GEORGIA HALE (Akarana, Richmond Roses)

HONEY HIREME (Wai-Coa-Bay Stallions, Hamilton City Tigers)

AMBER KANI (Counties Manukau, Manurewa Marlins)

ONJEURLINA LEIATAUA (Counties Manukau, Otahuhu Leopards)

HILDA MARIU (Counties Manukau, Papakura Sisters)

VA’ANESSA MOLIA-FRASER (Akarana, Richmond Roses)

JULES NEWMAN (Akarana, Mount Albert Lions)

APII NICHOLLS (Counties Manukau, Papakura Sisters)

TANIKA-JAZZ NOBLE-BELL (Akarana, Mount Albert)

ANNETTA-CLAUDIA NUUAUSALA (Akarana, Richmond Roses)

KANYON PAUL (Wai-Coa-Bay Stallions, Hamilton City Tigers)

CHARNTAY POKO (Akarana, Richmond Roses)

ROELA RADINIYAVUNI (Richmond Roses)

TIMAIMA RAVISA (Richmond Roses)

KRYSTAL ROTA (Counties Manukau, Papakura Sisters)

TASIA SEUMANUFAGAI (Victoria, Combined Affiliated States)

AIESHALEIGH SMALLEY (Counties Manukau, Otahuhu Leopards)

CRYSTAL TAMARUA (Akarana, Richmond Roses)

ATAWHAI TUPAEA (Counties Manukau, Papakura Sisters)

KATHLEEN WHARTON KEREMETE (Counties Manukau, Papakura Sisters)

NZRL seeking a National Coaching Education Manager

 

PURPOSE OF THE ROLE

The National Coaching Education Manager is responsible for researching and identifying best practice coaching models as well as the overall development and implementation of the NZRL coach development programmes partnering with the coaching and development staff within Zones/Districts to deliver the plan. You will also develop coaching resources to support the NZRL coach accreditation programmes to ensure that a strong pipeline of coaches are progressing from the grassroots through the system.

 

KNOWLEDGE, EXPERIENCE AND CAPABILITIES

  • Previous rugby league coaching experience in a national or professional environment is desirable but not essential.
  • Demonstrated ability to successfully lead, communicate and develop people and apply knowledge and skill in a range of areas.
  • Proven experience in identifying coaching capability gaps and developing development plans to address.
  • Sound skills in Microsoft Office products: Word, PowerPoint and Excel.
  • Demonstrated ability to deliver instructional presentation.
  • Excellent communication skills both verbal and written as well as strong organisational skills and the ability to multitask.
  • Sound interpersonal and people management skills, including the ability to interact with people at all levels from the community game through to HP.

This is an exciting opportunity to identify and develop best coaching models and deliver them through the coaching and development staff within the Zones and Districts.  

 

ABOUT NEW ZEALAND RUGBY LEAGUE

Rugby league has played a significant part in New Zealand sport for over 100 years. Formed in 1910, New Zealand Rugby League (NZRL) is the governing body for the sport of rugby league in New Zealand. The NZRL catchment is divided into seven zones that service the grassroots needs of the game. These zones compete in the National Premiership / Championship, as well as women’s, youth and schools’ competitions.

NZRL is not just about success on the field – Through its “More Than A Game” philosophy, NZRL aspires to transform lives and community wellbeing through Rugby League. Underpinning this philosophy is The Kiwi Way.  We are diverse, we call New Zealand home and therefore we are all Kiwis, We live and play The Kiwi Way –all day/every day.

  • We are inclusive, respectful and humble.
  • We are responsible
  • We are innovative and courageous
  • We are family first

 

APPLICATION CLOSING DATE – Wednesday 24th July, 2019

Download Job Description

Global Elite Sports (www.globalelitesports.com) have been contracted on behalf of New Zealand Rugby League to manage the recruitment for this position. To apply, please click here or send your resume and cover letter directly to richard@globalelitesports.com

By Tony Kemp

An icon on the field, a leading coach and exemplary administrator off the field, and an all-round legend of the game, we celebrate, Matua Kevin Tamati.

Kevin Tamati is approaching five decades of service at the highest level in Rugby League in Aotearoa, making him well-deserving of the most prestigious of awards – A New Zealand Rugby League Life Membership.

Kevin Tamati was born and raised in the Hawke’s Bay. He burst to national prominence when he (along with our President, life member and cousin, Howie Tamati) were selected to represent the Junior Kiwis in 1972, and would go on to earn his full international honors debuting for the Kiwis  in 1979 – the first of 22 tests he accumulated through an international career that lasted until 1986.

As a player Kevin spent time with Wellington clubs the Petone Panthers, Upper Hutt Tigers, Randwick Kingfishers as well as the Northcote Tigers in Auckland before embarking on an international career with Widnes and Warrington in the UK, where he played in excess of 200 top-flight games.

Kevin has made a significant contribution to our domestic game, playing for Auckland, Wellington, and representing Central Districts. There was a stint where Kevin would play for Northcote in the Auckland comp on a Saturday and then fly down to Wellington on Wednesday nights to play for the Kingfishers.  Kevin was known as a tough and uncompromising player throughout his career and was a role model and hero to many players, (including myself and many past Kiwis) during this period as a player.

Once his playing days were over, Kevin remained in the UK and began his coaching career at the helm of teams including, Chorley, Whitehaven, Widnes and Warrington. He also coached the British Army in the mid-1990s.

However, Kevin Tamati was always coming home. Upon his return to New Zealand, Kevin began a career as an administrator in the Hawkes Bay. He took up roles as the Chairman of Hawkes Bay (a position he still holds today) alongside refereeing at all age group levels as well as coaching Hawke’s Bay teams at age group and senior levels.

Even today, Kevin still works in a voluntary capacity and currently serves as Vice Chairman – Mid- Central Zone and is the current Assistant Coach of NZ Māori Women’s team which were the curtain raiser to the NZ Maori – Indigenous All Stars game earlier this year.

In 2006 Kevin was appointed to the NZ Māori Rugby League Board and helped lead the 2008 delegation to the International RL Federation – successfully establishing the inaugural indigenous international match between NZ Māori Rugby League and the Australian Indigenous Rugby League. This pioneer match provided the ground-breaking work to establish the hugely popular annual NRL Indigenous vs Australian All Stars game, promoting indigenous rugby league. Kevin has also coached the NZ Māori Rugby League side in 2007-08.

Kevin Tamati was made a life member of the Wellington Rugby League and named in the Wellington Rugby League Team of the Century in 2012. He was named a life member of Hawkes Bay Rugby League in 2016. Kevin Tamati was also named an Auckland Rugby League Immortal Hall of Famer and was inducted into the NZRL Legends of League for his service to the game.

Few people have had a greater impact on the sport of rugby league, from grassroots to the elite levels from playing, coaching or administrating than Kevin Tamati in the past half-century.

As you have heard, Kevin Tamati has Rugby League running through his veins. Kevin’s legacy of leadership will continue to pave the way for our future leaders of the game, for generations to come.

Congratulations Kevin Tamati on your  New Zealand Rugby League Life Membership, thank you for your years of invaluable service and dedication to our great game. 

Congratulations to Cameron McGregor who has been awarded a New Zealand Rugby League Life Membership.

Following in the footsteps of his father, Cameron McGregor has dedicated his in entire life to the great game of rugby league.

At the age of six he began his rugby league journey playing for Richmond Rovers in 1961. Cameron played through the grades until making the premier team in 1980.

Cameron was the treasurer of Richmond Rovers Rugby League for over five years and also began and ran the Grey Lynn Park Touch tournament. He was the manager of the Marist Rugby League Premier Team and coach of the Reserve grade. On top of this, he was an ARL board member for two years in 1996 & 1997 and Deputy Chair for three in 1998, 1999 and 2000.

He had two tenures as ARL Chairman from 2001- 2013 and again 2016-2018 collectively enjoying 16 years’ of service.

He was instrumental in the sale of Carlaw Park and development of the remainder of the land with a current value of approximately $70 million. He oversaw and was instrumental in the 2/3’s purchase of the NZ Warriors and currently sits on the board, as Deputy Chairman.

Cameron was the previous Chairman of the Auckland Vulcans, Chairman of the Rugby League Development Foundation and Deputy Chairman and Chairman of the Akarana Zone.

Cameron was inducted as a Life member of Auckland Rugby League in 2011 and was awarded the MNZM for Services to Rugby League 2013.

We’d like to congratulate Cameron McGregor on his NZRL Life membership, thank you Cameron, for your years of invaluable dedication and service to the great game of rugby league.

Evelyn Brooker

By Carey Clements

It is with great sadness that the New Zealand Universities and Tertiary Students Rugby League announces the death of one of its former Presidents and Life Members, Wesley Owen ‘Bud’ Lisle MNZM, who died peacefully last night at the Papakura Rest Home and Hospital following a month of declining health. He was aged 88, following his birthday last Thursday on 27 June.

Few people can claim to have been involved in league for more than 80 years, but in the case of Bud, it is very true, from the time he began playing as a five year old with the Aranui and then the Linwood Clubs in Christchurch. A decade later saw him selected into the Canterbury team which competed at the very first New Zealand Schoolboys tournament in Auckland in 1946. The following year he was selected in the first ever NZ Schoolboys team. After leaving secondary school, he then took up employment with the New Zealand Railways, which was to last more than 30 years.

As a result, Bud maintained his enthusiasm with league whenever a train would take him over to the South Island’s West Coast, although whenever he was back in Christchurch he would also be involved, most famously being to get former rugby player and future Kiwi and Kiwi coach Lory Blanchard, into playing league. Bud later transferred up to Wellington and joined the St George Club. Although stocky in physique, Bud played as a winger who was noted for outstanding speed out wide. He represented Wellington between 1953 and 1963

Although he was now very busy with his job with the Railways, Bud still found time in to establish rugby league in Manawatu in 1957 and in doing so became the provincial body’s first Life Member. As his playing days finished in 1965 following 17 years of competitive league, Bud got involved with league as an administrator as well as a coach and referee.

As well as selecting the Wellington provincial side for a number of years, Bud coached the team in 1967 and then again between 1970 and 1973, during which time the black and olds captured and subsequently held onto the Rugby League Cup for a number of challenges between 1970 and 1971.

In 1974, Bud began his involvement with New Zealand Universities as a selector and then within a few years was managing the national side to 7’s tournaments as well as the 1979 tour to Australia, the first internal tours between 1980 and 1983 and the first side which went to England and France in 1984.

A man who never suffered fools and who was always there when it came to the hard yards off the field around areas like fundraising (which seemed to be his specialist), Bud also never forgot the players that played for NZU and for many years, would send them Christmas cards.

Between 1985 and 1992 Bud became the President and Chairman of the NZ Universities Rugby League and in that time, saw it hosted the inaugural Student World Cup, while seeing the side go overseas on three other occasions in addition to more internal tours. He also continued to manage the NZU team. His last involvement in that role came in 1994 when the team played fixtures against Otago, West Coast and Canterbury.

Not one to move on from the game in a happy retirement, Bud was elected onto the NZRL Board during the 1990’s and early 2000’s, where his blunt and frank nature cast him aside from some of his fellow administrators, while at the same time became an unofficial voice of the big league public.

In addition to being Manawatu’s first Life Member, he was also a Life Member of the St George Club, the Wellington provincial body and NZ Universities. He was awarded a NZRL Distinguished Award in 1984 and four years later became a Life Member. In his spare time, he also became a magpie of rugby league memorabilia, which absolutely filled his house in South Auckland, which was where he relocated to in the mid 1970’s.

Bud also continued to attend NZRL Annual Meeting where again his distinctive voice around accountability would keep the officials on their toes, as well as getting out and watching games or simply doing more fundraising.

In short, rugby league was Bud Lisle’s life. He was unique, he was loyal, he was stubborn, but was overall entirely devoted to a game as a servant which he thought he owed and not the game owing him. We thank him for being part of our lives and for being involved in the game for eight long decades.

The annual NZRL National Women’s Tournament sees the best female rugby league talent from across the country come together to represent their zones in Auckland.

This year, the National Women’s Tournament will take place Friday 26th – Sunday 28th July at Pulman Park, Auckland.

THE NZRL NATIONAL WOMEN’S TEAMS

COUNTIES MANUKAU STINGRAYS CANTERBURY WAI-COA-BAY STALLIONS MID CENTRAL VIPERS AKARANA FALCONS AUCKLAND VULCANS DEV

 

DAY 1 – FRIDAY

 

RD Date Team 1 VS Team 2 Field Time
ROUND 1
1 26 July Counties Manukau Stingrays vs Auckland Vulcans Dev 2 11.00 am
1 26 July Canterbury vs Miid-Central Vipers 3 11.00 am
 
1 26 July Akarana Falcons vs Wai-Coa-Bay Stallions 1 12.15 pm

 

RD Date Team 1 VS Team 2 Field Time
ROUND 2
2 26 July Mid-Central Vipers vs Counties Manukau Stingrays 1 14.00 pm
 
2 26 July Wai-Coa-Bay Stallions vs Auckland Vulcans Dev 2 15.00 pm
2 26 July Akarana Falcons vs Canterbury 3 15.00 pm

 

DAY 2 – SATURDAY

RD Date Team 1 VS Team 2 Field Time
ROUND 3
3 27 July Wai-Coa-Bay Stallions vs Mid-Central Vipers 3 09.30 am
3 27 July Counties Manukau Stingrays vs Akarana Falcons 2 09.30 am
 
3 27 July Canterbury vs Auckland Vulcans Dev 1 10.30 am

 

SEMI FINALS
RD Date Team 1 VS Team 2 Field Time
Game 2

SF2

27 July 1st Group B vs 2nd Group A 3 13:00 pm
Game 1
SF1
27 July 1st Group A vs 2nd Group B 1 13:00 pm

 

DAY 3 – SUNDAY-FINALS

FINALS
RD Date Team 1 VS Team 2 Field Time
5th/6th Play off 28 July 3rd Group A vs 3rd Group B 3 10.30 am
3rd /4th Play off 28 July Loser Game 1 vs Loser Game 2 2 11.30 am
Grand Final 28 July Winner Game 1 vs Winner Game 2 1 13.05 pm

 

PLEASE NOTE: DRAW IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE

 


#TheKiwiWay

Two tries from star half Shaun Johnson and a brilliant showing from young hooker Brandon Smith led the New Zealand Kiwis to a 34-14 victory over Mate Ma’a Tonga in the opening game of the Oceania Cup on Saturday.

Smith was in a class of his own for much of the match at Mount Smart Stadium, at times making Tonga’s defence appear second rate with his piercing runs, as he clocked up 10 tackle busts and 126 running metres in less than an hour on the field.

The energetic Melbourne Storm rake was also directly involved in two of New Zealand’s six tries, scoring the opening one with a 35-metre dart before setting up another early in the second half with another long-range run and kick.

There would have been daylight between Smith and the next best Kiwi had it not been for Johnson’s performance, with the playmaker starring in his first game back in Auckland since his dramatic exit from the Warriors at the end of 2018.

It was also his 30th Test for his country.

Johnson crossed twice at the back end of the first half and managed the game well alongside Benji Marshall in what was only the pair’s second Test together.

In front of 23,624 mostly Tongan fans in Auckland, the Kiwis raced out to a 16-4 lead at the break and didn’t look back, going some way to avenging their shock 28-22 loss to the island nation at the 2017 World Cup.

After Smith’s 11th minute try, which Esan Marsters converted, Tonga began to dominate the game and eventually hit back via Solomone Kata, after Daniel Tupou’s clever bat-back of a John Asiata kick.

Up 6-4 with half-time approaching, the Kiwis got a timely injection from Johnson, with the Cronulla Sharks ace twice slicing through Tonga’s left edge to extend the home side’s lead.

Minutes into the second half Smith’s destructive carry through the middle of the park, and well-weighted grubber into the goal-post pad, saw Roger Tuivasa-Sheck pounce on the loose ball for New Zealand’s fourth.

Tonga fought hard to try and get back into the match, but their lack of a genuine play-maker was clear to see and they struggled to build pressure.

With 20 minutes to go the air appeared to have been knocked out of Tonga, and the Kiwis made them pay with tries in quick succession to debutant Jahrome Hughes and centre Joseph Manu.

Back-to-back tries to Sydney Roosters Sio Siua Taukeiaho and Daniel Tupou inside the final 10 minutes saw Tonga reduce the final deficit to 20.

nrl.com

Kiwi Ferns centre Kiana Takairangi followed in her brother Brad’s footsteps by scoring for New Zealand on debut in the comprehensive 46-8 win over Samoa.

But Kiana went a step further and scored a brace at Mt Smart Stadium on Saturday. Coincidently her first Test points were against the same country as older brother, when he scored a try on debut for the Kiwis against Samoa in the 2017 World Cup.

Kiana’s speed and a nifty left-foot step in producing her two four-pointers helped the Ferns jump to 26-0 lead after 29 minutes.

The Samoans were finding it difficult to match the Ferns skills, especially when centre Honey Hireme fends off two players with her right arms on the way to the white line.

The Samoans at least went into half-time with something to show for a hard 40 minutes.

Billy-Jean Ale came off the bench to score in the 38th minute but the road back was still a lengthy one, down 26-4 at the break.

But a good way to start was by being the first to score in the second half, when winger Moana Fineaso-Levi pushed through two defenders to plant the ball in the 47th to make it 26-8.

But the gap quickly widened again as Hireme scored her second (51st), winger Madison Bartlett spun out of a tackle (55th) in the left corner, former NSW Origin utility Nita Maynard (58th) crossed, and suddenly it was 40-8.

Maynard was ineligible for NSW this year due to a rule change on eligibility of Kiwi players playing in the NRLW and Harvey Norman club championships.

Ferns fullback Apii Nicholls scored in the 73rd minute to wrap up the nine tries-to-two victory.

It was Samoa’s first women’s international in eight years – the last was in 2011 against Australia in Apia. They had not played the Ferns since 2008.

nrl.com

Waikato rugby league achieves a special double by providing captains of both the New Zealand Kiwis and the Kiwi Ferns in today’s international double header at Mount Smart Stadium.

Hamilton-born, Ngaruawahia-raised Dallin Watene-Zelezniak’s junior club was College Old Boys in Hamilton.

He captains the Kiwis for the fifth time in today’s Oceania Cup Test against Mate Ma’a Tonga after making his captaincy debut in last October’s clash against Australia at the same ground.

Putaruru-born and raised Honey Hireme brings a Waikato flavour to the Kiwi Ferns’ captaincy today. Hireme, who now lives in Hamilton, played her junior rugby league for the Putaruru Dragons and is playing for the Hamilton City Tigers this year.

 

Kiwi Ferns team changes

Kiwi Ferns head coach Justin Morgan has shuffled his line-up for today’s international against Fetu Samoa at Mount Smart Stadium (3.10pm kick-off).

Debutante Charntay Poko was named in jersey #18 when the team was officially submitted on Tuesday but following the week’s training sessions, Morgan has brought her in to start in the halves with Raecene McGregor.

That sees Raquel Anderson-Pitman (#6) moved to the interchange while there’s also a change in the starting front row with Amber Paris Hall (#15) swapped in for Aieshaleigh Smalley (#8).

The bench is Anderson-Pitman, Smalley, Nita Maynard and Crystal Tamarua with Amber Kani and Jules Newman the 18th and 19th players.

The New Zealand Kiwis are confirmed to line up 1-17 as named on Tuesday with Zane Tetevano and Kieran Foran in #18 and #19.

While Kani has missed the playing 17 for the Kiwi Ferns, eight of her 2018 Warriors WNRL team-mates are in the side. The Vodafone Warriors also provide three members of the coaching staff in Justin Morgan and Luisa Avaiki plus trainer Mark Harvey. The eight players lining up are Apii Nicholls, Hilda Mariu, Krystal Rota, Annetta Nuuausala, Georgia Hale, Anderson-Pitman, Smalley and Tamarua.

In a reversal of their Kiwi Ferns roles, Avaiki will again coach the Warriors in the WNRL this year while Morgan will be her assistant.

The Vodafone Warriors also provide two of Kiwi head coach Michael Maguire’s assistant coaches in Stacey Jones and Nathan Cayless as well as three players in Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, Ken Maumalo and Leeson Ah Mau.

 

Previous clashes against Tonga

Tonight’s Test will be the sixth between the Kiwis and Mate Ma’a Tonga.

Results since the first in 1995:

1995 | Kiwis 25, Tonga 24 at Wilderspool, Warrington (RLWC)

1999 | Kiwis 74, Tonga 0 at Carlaw Park, Auckland

2008 | Kiwis 56, Tonga 8 at Mount Smart Stadium, Auckland

2009 | Kiwis 40, Tonga 24 at International Stadium, Rotorua

2017 | Kiwis 22, Tonga 28 at Waikato Stadium, Auckland

 

Sir Peter Leitch Challenge Trophy at stake

The Kiwis v Tonga Test is the first in the new Oceania Cup competition.

The Kiwis will meet the Kangaroos at the end of the season and Tonga will play the Australians as well.

Also at stake tonight is the Sir Peter Leitch Challenge Trophy.

This was first contested as the Peter Leitch QSM Challenge Trophy in 2008 when the Kiwis met Tonga at Mount Smart Stadium.

A new version of the trophy was struck after Sir Peter was knighted. It’s at stake whenever the Kiwis play island nations in non-Rugby League World Cup internationals.

 

Marshall not most experienced Kiwi

While the 34-year-old Benji Marshall made his Kiwi Test debut as long ago as 2005, he won’t be the New Zealand side’s most experienced international on the field today.

That honour belongs to halves partner Shaun Johnson who is Marshall’s junior by six years.

Johnson (28) will play his 30th Test today while Marshall, off the international scene for seven years, lines up for the 28th time.

In fact, two other Kiwi players have also made more Test appearances than Marshall. Props Jesse Bromwich and Jared Waerea-Hargreaves both take their Test tallies to 29 in this contest.

Richard Becht & Photosport.nz

New Zealand Rugby League is saddened to hear of the passing of Bill Deacon Kiwi #445.

Bill played for the Ngaruawahia Panthers in the Waikato Rugby League competition representing Waikato. He was first selected for the New Zealand national rugby league team in 1965, the same year he was also named New Zealand Rugby League player of the year.

Deacon was included in the Kiwis squad for the 1970 World Cup and played his last test match for New Zealand in 1971. He finished his career having played 14 tests for New Zealand.

His contribution to New Zealand Rugby League will not be forgotten.

Kiwi Ferns Head Coach Justin Morgan has named two debutantes for Saturday’s test against Fetu Samoa. Madison Bartlett and Kiana Takairangi will take the field in the Black and White jersey for the first time in the inaugural Oceania Cup clash at Mount Smart Stadium.

Sydney-based Takairangi, who plays for the Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks, will join her brother Brad Takairangi as a Kiwi international.

Bartlett, a former New Zealand age-group touch representative and current Richmond Rovers player, will start on the wing with Takairangi joining Kiwi Ferns captain Honey Hireme in the centres.

The much-anticipated match between Samoa and the Ferns will kick off at 3:10pm, this Saturday at Mt Smart Stadium.

GET TICKETS HERE

Kiwi Ferns: 1 Apii Nicholls, 2 Madison Bartlett, 3 Honey Hireme (c), 4 Kiana Takairangi, 5 Hilda Mariu, 6 Raquel Anderson-Pitman, 7 Raecene Mcgregor, 8 Annetta-Claudia Nuuausala, 9 Krystal Rota, 10 Aeishaleigh Smalley, 11 Kathleen Wharton, 12 Teuila Fotu-Moala, 13, Georgia Hale. Interchange: 14 Nita Maynard, 15 Amber Paris-Hall, 16 Amber Kani, 17 Crystal Tamarua, 18 Charntay Poko, 19 Jules Newman.

Benji Marshall and Shaun Johnson have been listed as the starting halves combination for the New Zealand Kiwis’ Oceania Cup Test against Mate Ma’a Tonga at Mount Smart Stadium in Auckland on Saturday, June 22 (5.40pm kick-off).

Head coach Michael Maguire has named Marshall (34) in the No 7 jersey for his 28th Test, seven years after his last. Johnson is listed in the No 6 jersey for his 30th international.

The Kiwis were required to submit their team tonight despite having just their first field session at Mount Smart Stadium today. Of the starting team used in the 34-0 third Test win over England in Leeds last November, four players are missing.

Captain Dallin Watene-Zelezniak has been named on the wing replacing Jamayne Isaako with Roger Tuivasa-Sheck at fullback in his first Test since the 2017 Rugby League World Cup.

Marshall replaces the unavailable Kodi Nikorima while debutant Briton Nikora and Kenny Bromwich – on the interchange in Leeds – come into the starting back row to replace the injured Kevin Proctor and Adam Blair.

The extended bench comprises Jahrome Hughes, Leeson Ah Mau, Nelson Asofa-Solomona, James Fisher-Harris, Zane Tetevano and Kieran Foran.

Kiwi Ferns coach Justin Morgan has also named a strong and clinical team to take on Fetu Samoa on Saturday (3.10pm). It features debutantes Madison Bartlett and Kiana Takairangi.

The Kiwi Ferns also trained at Mount Smart Stadium today.

NEW ZEALAND KIWIS | v MATE MA’A TONGA

5.40pm, Saturday, June 22, 2019
Mount Smart Stadium, Auckland
Referee: Ben Cummins (Australia)

NEW ZEALAND KIWIS

1 ROGER TUIVASA-SHECK
(Vodafone Warriors)
2 KEN MAUMALO
(Vodafone Warriors)
3 ESAN MARSTERS
(Wests Tigers)
4 JOSEPH MANU
(Sydney Roosters)
5 DALLIN WATENE-ZELEZNIAK (c)
(Canterbury Bankstown Bulldogs)
6 SHAUN JOHNSON
(Cronulla Sutherland Sharks)
7 BENJI MARSHALL
(Wests Tigers)
8 JESSE BROMWICH
(Melbourne Storm)
9 BRANDON SMITH
(Melbourne Storm)
10 JARED WAEREA-HARGREAVES
(Sydney Roosters)
11 KENNY BROMWICH
(Melbourne Storm)
12 BRITON NIKORA
(Cronulla Sutherland Sharks)
13 ISAAC LIU
(Sydney Roosters)
Interchange:
14 JAHROME HUGHES
(Melbourne Storm)
15 LEESON AH MAU
(Vodafone Warriors)
16 NELSON ASOFA-SOLOMONA
(Melbourne Storm)
17 JAMES FISHER-HARRIS 
(Penrith Panthers)
18 ZANE TETEVANO
(Sydney Roosters)
19 KIERAN FORAN
(Canterbury Bankstown Bulldogs)

HEAD COACH | MICHAEL MAGUIRE

For full player profiles please click here – https://bit.ly/2KYd6wS

NEW ZEALAND KIWIS | v MATE MA’A TONGA

Player Club Kiwi No Tests for NZ
LEESON AH MAU Vodafone Warriors 812 5
NELSON ASOFA-SOLOMONA Melbourne Storm 804 5
JESSE BROMWICH Melbourne Storm 775 28
KENNEATH BROMWICH Melbourne Storm 796 7
JAMES FISHER-HARRIS Penrith Panthers 801 5
KIERAN FORAN Canterbury Bankstown Bulldogs 757 21
JAHROME HUGHES Melbourne Storm
SHAUN JOHNSON Cronulla Sutherland Sharks 774 29
ISAAC LIU Sydney Roosters 805 7
JOSEPH MANU Sydney Roosters 815 4
BENJI MARSHALL Wests Tigers 717 27
ESAN MARSTERS Wests Tigers 809 5
KEN MAUMALO Vodafone Warriors 810 5
BRITON NIKORA Cronulla Sutherland Sharks
BRANDON SMITH Melbourne Storm 816 4
ZANE TETEVANO Sydney Roosters
ROGER TUIVASA-SHECK Vodafone Warriors 779 16
JARED WAEREA-HARGREAVES Sydney Roosters 755 28
DALLIN WATENE-ZELEZNIAK Canterbury Bankstown Bulldogs 794 11

 

KIWI FERNS v FETU SAMOA

3.10pm, Saturday, June 22, 2019
Mount Smart Stadium, Auckland
Referee: Paki Parkinson (New Zealand)

1 APII NICHOLLS
2 MADISON BARTLETT
3 HONEY HIREME (c)
4 KIANA TAKAIRANGI
5 HILDA MARIU
6 RAQUEL ANDERSON-PITMAN
7 RAECENE McGREGOR
8 ANNETTA-CLAUDIA NUUAUSALA
9 KRYSTAL ROTA
10 AEISHALEIGH SMALLEY
11 KATHLEEN WHARTON
12 TEUILA FOTU-MOALA
13 GEORGIA HALE
14 NITA MAYNARD
15 AMBER PARIS HALL
16 AMBER KANI
17 CRYSTAL TAMARUA
18 CHARNTAY POKO
19 JULES NEWMAN

HEAD COACH | JUSTIN MORGAN

 

 

Photo – photosport

SKY Sport and New Zealand Rugby League have today announced a new partnership for 2019 that is set to further enhance the game of rugby league in New Zealand.

 

This partnership is in addition to the long-standing broadcast agreement that has showcased rugby league in New Zealand and abroad for many years.

 

The SKY Sport logo will be proudly displayed on the jerseys of the Kiwis, Kiwi Ferns and Junior Kiwis, as well as on the Kiwi Ferns’ shorts ahead of the Oceania Cup that kicks off this Saturday with the Kiwi Ferns taking on Fetu Samoa, followed by the much-anticipated rematch between Mate Ma‘a Tonga and the Kiwis.

 

NZRL CEO, Greg Peters, says this partnership with SKY Sport couldn’t have come at a better time.

“Like other codes, we are experiencing an explosion in the women’s game, and this high-profile partnership will shine a brighter spotlight on this.

 

“Their support will enable our Kiwi Ferns and Junior Kiwis to take the field in more fixtures this year than would have otherwise been possible. Our Kiwi Ferns will play in the upcoming inaugural World Nines in Sydney and take the field again against the Jillaroos at the doubleheader in Wollongong on October 25th. Our Junior Kiwis are also set to take on their Australian counterparts towards the back end of the year as well.

 

“We are very grateful to have SKY Sport on board to enable further momentum for these teams. We’re excited about what we can achieve this year as a result, as well as going forward, as we work towards a long-term partnership. Thank you SKY Sport for your ongoing and invaluable support.” Greg concludes.

 

SKY Director of Sport, Tex Teixeira says: “SKY Sport has been a long term supporter of rugby league in New Zealand and we’re thrilled to be able to help increase the number of Kiwi Ferns and Junior Kiwis matches being played in 2019, to have SKY Sport on the jerseys is a proud moment for us.”

 

Veteran halves Benji Marshall and Kieran Foran have tonight been confirmed in the 19-strong Kiwi squad for the inaugural Oceania Cup Test against Mate Ma’a Tonga at Mount Smart Stadium in Auckland on Saturday, June 22 (5.40pm kick-off).

The pair were initially included in a 27-man group named on Thursday night but have now moved a step closer to the prospect of a return to the Test arena.

The 34-year-iold Marshall joined the New Zealand team’s camp in Auckland tonight seven years after last wearing the black and white jersey in the end-of-season Test against the Kangaroos in Townsville in 2012. Marshall was captain that night – the 27th Test of his career – in a match the Kiwis lost 10-18.

Foran returns to a New Zealand squad for the first time since lining up in the 2017 Anzac Test in Canberra, his 21st international. He won’t join the Kiwis until tomorrow following his appearance for the Canterbury Bankstown Bulldogs against the Roosters in Sydney today.

He’ll travel with new Bulldogs team-mate and 2018 Kiwi captain Dallin Watene-Zelezniak along with Roosters players Joseph Manu, Issac Liu, Jared Waerea-Hargreaves and Tokoroa-born Zane Tetevano, one of three players in line to make their Kiwi Test debuts on Saturday night.

Tetevano (28) was originally selected for last year’s end of season campaign against Australia and England before being ruled out with injury following the Roosters’ grand final win. He now has a chance to wear the Kiwi jersey for the first time after previously representing Cook Islands in five Tests.

The other players in line to debut are Wellington-born Melbourne utility Jahrome Hughes (24) and Tauranga-born Cronulla second rower Briton Nikora (21), who made his NRL debut in the opening round this season.

Vodafone Warriors halfback Kodi Nikorima and Canberra’s Jordan Rapana and Joseph Tapine have been ruled out by their clubs while Vodafone Warriors second rower Tohu Harris was also unavailable.

In all 14 of the 19 players were involved in last year’s campaigns and a 15th – Tetevano – was an original selection. As well as Marshall and Foran, Vodafone Warriors captain and fullback Roger Tuivasa-Sheck – who has scored 13 tries in 16 Tests – makes his return to the Kiwis after last appearing in the 2017 Rugby League World Cup.

 

  • The Kiwis v Tonga Test is the second leg of a doubleheader which kicks off with the Kiwi Ferns facing Fetu Samoa at 3.10pm.
  • BUY TICKETS HERE NOW

 

NEW ZEALAND KIWIS | WIDER SQUAD

 

LEESON AH MAU (Vodafone Warriors)

NELSON ASOFA-SOLOMONA (Melbourne Storm)

JESSE BROMWICH (Melbourne Storm)

KENNEATH BROMWICH (Melbourne Storm)

JAMES FISHER-HARRIS (Penrith Panthers)

KIERAN FORAN (Canterbury Bankstown Bulldogs)

JAHROME HUGHES (Melbourne Storm)

SHAUN JOHNSON (Cronulla Sutherland Sharks)

ISAAC LIU (Sydney Roosters)

JOSEPH MANU (Sydney Roosters)

BENJI MARSHALL (Wests Tigers)

ESAN MARSTERS (Wests Tigers)

KEN MAUMALO (Vodafone Warriors)

BRITON NIKORA (Cronulla Sutherland Sharks)

BRANDON SMITH (Melbourne Storm)

ZANE TETEVANO (Sydney Roosters)

ROGER TUIVASA-SHECK (Vodafone Warriors)

JARED WAEREA-HARGREAVES (Sydney Roosters)

DALLIN WATENE-ZELEZNIAK (Canterbury Bankstown Bulldogs) Captain

 

Veteran halves Benji Marshall and Kieran Foran are among 27 players named in a wider Kiwi squad for the inaugural Oceania Cup Test against Mate Ma’a Tonga at Mount Smart Stadium in Auckland on Saturday, June 22 (5.40pm kick-off).

The last of the 34-year-old Marshall’s 27 Tests was in 2012 when he captained the Kiwis in a 10-18 loss to the Kangaroos in Townsville.

Foran (28) last played at international level in the 2017 Anzac Test in Canberra, his 21st outing for the national team.

Another feature of the extended squad is the inclusion of Tauranga-born Sharks second rower Briton Nikora, who made his NRL debut in the opening round this season.

The only other three players named who are yet to make their Kiwi Test debuts are Wellington-born Storm fullback Jahrome Hughes (24). Tokoroa-born Roosters middle forward Zane Tetevano (28) and Tonga-born Vodafone Warriors prop Agnatius Paasi (27). Hughes and Paasi were in the Kiwis’ end-of-season touring squad last year but didn’t appear in a Test while Tetevano, who has played at international level for Cook Islands, was originally selected for the campaign before being ruled out by injury.

“We’re really pleased with the quality and form of the players we’ve been able to select,” said second-year Kiwi head coach Michael Maguire.

“Nearly all of them have come through the Test we had against England in Denver last year and the matches against Australia and England later in the year. As a group we made a lot of progress and now it’s all about building on that.

“This Test against Tonga at Mount Smart is going to be a huge occasion and we can’t wait to be part of it.

“It kicks off what is a tremendous year for the international game with the introduction of the Oceania Cup competition, the Downer Rugby League World Cup Nines and our series against the Great Britain Rugby League Lions.”

In all 22 of the 27 players named in the Kiwis’ wider squad tonight were involved in last year’s campaigns; the exceptions are Marshall, Foran, Tetevano, Nikora and Vodafone Warriors captain and 2018 Dally M Medal winner Roger Tuivasa-Sheck.

NRL competition leader Melbourne provides five players in the Bromwich brothers Jesse and Kenny, front rower Nelson Asofa-Solomona, hooker Brandon Smith and Hughes while there are seven Vodafone Warriors in fullback Tuivasa-Sheck, wing Ken Maumalo, halfback Kodi Nikorima, prop Leeson Ah Mau, hooker Issac Luke, second rower Isaiah Papali’i and Paasi.

The Sydney Roosters boast four players in 2018 New Zealand Rugby League Player of the Year Jared Waerea-Hargreaves, centre Joseph Manu, back rower Isaac Liu and Tetevano.

The final 19-man Test squad will be announced after the NRL’s 14th round finishes with the clash between the Sydney Roosters and the Canterbury Bankstown Bulldogs on Sunday evening.

  • The Kiwis v Tonga Test is the second leg of a doubleheader which kicks off with the Kiwi Ferns facing Fetu Samoa at 3.10pm.
  • BUY TICKETS HERE NOW

NEW ZEALAND KIWIS | WIDER SQUAD

LEESON AH MAU (Vodafone Warriors)

NELSON ASOFA-SOLOMONA (Melbourne Storm)

JESSE BROMWICH (Melbourne Storm)

KENNEATH BROMWICH (Melbourne Storm)

JAMES FISHER-HARRIS (Penrith Panthers)

KIERAN FORAN (Canterbury Bankstown Bulldogs)

JAHROME HUGHES (Melbourne Storm)

JAMAYNE ISAAKO (Brisbane Broncos)

SHAUN JOHNSON (Cronulla Sutherland Sharks)

ISAAC LIU (Sydney Roosters)

ISSAC LUKE (Vodafone Warriors)

JOSEPH MANU (Sydney Roosters)

BENJI MARSHALL (Wests Tigers)

ESAN MARSTERS (Wests Tigers)

KEN MAUMALO (Vodafone Warriors)

BRITON NIKORA (Cronulla Sutherland Sharks)

KODI NIKORIMA (Vodafone Warriors)

AGNATIUS PAASI (Vodafone Warriors)

ISAIAH PAPALI’I (Vodafone Warriors)

JORDAN RAPANA (Canberra Raiders)

BRANDON SMITH (Melbourne Storm)

JOSEPH TAPINE (Canberra Raiders)

MARTIN TAUPAU (Manly Warringah Sea Eagles)

ZANE TETEVANO (Sydney Roosters)

ROGER TUIVASA-SHECK (Vodafone Warriors)

JARED WAEREA-HARGREAVES (Sydney Roosters)

DALLIN WATENE-ZELEZNIAK (Canterbury Bankstown Bulldogs)

 

Photo – Photosport

Kiwi Ferns head coach Justin Morgan has tonight named his 19-strong squad ahead of their clash against Fetu Samoa to launch the inaugural Oceania Cup at Mount Smart Stadium on June 22.

The all-Pacific doubleheader will see the Kiwi Ferns take on Fetu Samoa for the first time in 11 years ahead of the much-anticipated rematch between the New Zealand Kiwis and Mate Ma‘a Tonga.

The Kiwi Ferns will be captained by 2018 Kiwi Ferns Player of the Year and veteran centre Honey Hireme, who first wore the black and white jersey 17 years ago.

She’s joined by a number of stand-out players from last year’s blockbuster Trans-Tasman Triple Header including 2017 Kiwi Ferns Player of the Year and star fullback Apii Nicholls, centre Amber Kani and front rowers Annetta Nuuausala and Aeishaleigh Smalley – all with the Warriors – plus St George Illawarra halfback Raecene McGregor, Sydney Roosters hooker Nita Maynard, Brisbane Broncos second rower Teuila Fotu-Moala and Warriors playmakers Georgia Hale and Raquel Anderson-Pitman.

Four Kiwi Ferns debutantes have been named including Jules Newman (Mt Albert), Madison Bartlett and Charntay Poko (Richmond Rovers) and Sydney based Kiana Takairangi.

“We’re really lucky to have that mix of leadership and young talent in the team,” said Morgan.

“The girls are eager to take the field again in the black and white and a lot of them are following on from last year’s triple header Test, which is a strength for us.

“The narrow loss to the Aussies still hurts and we know Samoa will come out firing, but we’ve got some great leaders who will bring that invaluable experience, coupled with exciting new debutantes, so we’ll be bringing our best game.

“We’re really looking forward to getting into camp and focusing all our efforts on the Test.”

Tickets are still available for the Oceania Cup doubleheader here.

Gates at Mount Smart Stadium will open at 2.00pm on June 22 with the Kiwi Ferns v Fetu Samoa match kicking off at 3.10pm and the New Zealand Kiwis and Mate Ma‘a Tonga match kicking off at 5.40pm.

KIWI FERNS SQUAD

RAQUEL ANDERSON- PITMAN

MADISON BARTLETT

TEUILA FOTU-MOALA

GEORGIA HALE

AMBER PARIS HALL

HONEY HIREME

AMBER KANI

HILDA MARIU

NITA MAYNARD

RAECENE MCGREGOR

JULES NEWMAN

APII NICHOLLS

ANNETTA-CLAUDIA NUUAUSALA

CHARNTAY POKO

KRYSTAL ROTA

AEISHALEIGH SMALLEY

CRYSTAL TAMARUA

KIANA TAKAIRANGI

KATHLEEN WHARTON

Photo – Photosport

Canterbury Rugby League (CRL) is the regional organisation charged with leading, developing, promoting and fostering Rugby League in Canterbury. CRL has built a strong and loyal following across the Canterbury region for over 100 years.  As an organisation CRL plays an important role within the community by delivering on its strategic plan, CRL will continue to build on its rich history and create a bright future for the game.

Job tasks and responsibilities

Lead the development and promotion of rugby league in primary, intermediate and secondary schools.

The primary focus of the Development Officer is the delivery of Canterbury Rugby League’s youth and junior coaching and development plan within the Canterbury District.  They will also be required to assist in the overall planning and delivery of training to all coaches, however, their primary focus will be upon developing and supporting youth coaches in the club setting.

Skills and experience

  • Previous experience in a sport development role (minimum 1-2 years) is preferable but not essential.
  • Relevant tertiary training and/or qualification.
  • Have a passion for delivering sport to youth.
  • An understanding of sport and education settings in New Zealand.
  • Be an outstanding communicator, be able to present to a wide variety of people.
  • Have excellent inter-personal skills.
  • Have strong (and timely) reporting skills.
  • Be able to deliver (high quality) programmes in an educational setting at all levels.
  • A sound knowledge of Canterbury Rugby League, its goals and objectives.
  • Confidence dealing with clubs, youth, volunteers and local authorities and community groups.
  • Good computer skills.

For a copy of the Job Description please email rochelle@crfl.co.nz.

To apply for this job please click here

If you require any further information please contact Duane Fyfe on 021-994-494.

Wellington Rugby League (WRL) is the local sporting body responsible for the administration of rugby league in the Greater Wellington region. The board is responsible for developing and leading the strategic plan, including setting the priorities and performance criteria in order to help maintain and grow the game of Rugby League in Wellington.

WRL currently have three board vacancies for appointed members to complement the current board which is made up of independent and club representatives.

We invite applications from those who have:

  • Experience in governance
  • Good working knowledge of Rugby League in Wellington
  • Leadership qualities to assist the current board and general manager to create opportunities for rugby league to grow in the region.

Additional skills and experience sought are:

  • Strong financial expertise
  • Legal knowledge and experience
  • Demonstrated leadership capabilities
  • Strong commercial and community connections
  • Understanding of the sporting sector

Currently, WRL is an action-oriented board and seek applications from those who have a “roll up your sleeves” attitude to join the team and make things happen for Wellington Rugby League.

Please send applications along with a copy of your CV to Lichelle.Evans@gmail.com or Peterdale@xtra.co.nz

 

 

Congratulations to league legend, Sir Graham Lowe, who headlined NZ sporting identities in the 2019 Queen’s Birthday Honours – becoming a Knight Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit. Firstly known for his dedication to the game, this accolade recognises his important services off the field, as he’s knighted for his work with youth and education.

Sir Graham has enjoyed a distinguished career in the game, coaching the Kiwis to victory over the all-conquering Kangaroos, guiding Manly and Wigan to success in Australian and English professional ranks, and steering Queensland home over NSW at State of Origin.

He previously received a Queen’s Service Medal in 1986 New Year Honours and became an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit in 2013 New Year Honours, but all his titles – including this latest – have recognised his community service.

The 72-year-old was knighted for his services to youth and education, with his Lowie Foundation delivering a literacy and numeracy programme to 12-19-year olds from disadvantaged backgrounds.

“Rugby league and sport are really important and play a big part in our lives, but I’m a believer in supporting, helping and educating disadvantaged young people,” he said.

“I saw many times young people who were oozing rugby league talent, but they lacked a successful pathway because they didn’t appreciate how important literacy and numeracy were in life. So many of them missed out and when I combine that with many of the players I’ve coached, I owe so much to them.

“A lot of them came from these really disadvantaged backgrounds and I wanted to see if I could put something back in that area. That’s what I’ve been really focused on for many years.”

We want to congratulate Graham for epitomising our More Than A Game philosophy and thank him for his hard work and dedication to effecting important change within our communities.

It’s with great sadness that we announce, former New Zealand Secondary School and under-18 representative Zae Wallace, has passed away after being struck down with the flu.

The young sportsman who’s represented New Zealand at age group level returned to Auckland this year following a stint with the Gold Coast Titans under-20 side and had been in an induced coma for four weeks.

At the beginning of the 2017 season, Wallace signed a contract with the Titans to play in the NYC under-20 competition. Wallace spent that season with the Titans then joined the Burleigh Bears in the Intrust Super Cup.

Playing at halfback and being the youngest member of the squad, Wallace was one of the Akarana Falcons star performers in their National Premiership championship victory in 2016. That same year he was named Auckland Rugby League’s College Player of the Year.

He won selection following a standout season with the Mt Albert Lions in Auckland’s Fox Premier Rugby League Competition. He had returned to New Zealand to play with the Northcote Tigers and had only played one game when he became ill.

Wallace is described as a “lovely and cheeky” young man, who had a great sense of humour and a great bunch of friends. A givealittle page had been set up to raise funds in support of his courageous battle, one friend wrote, “Champions don’t stop, they dust themselves off and push on. This young man is all champion.”

Our deepest condolences go out to Zae’s family and friends, not only was he a rising league star with exciting skill and potential, he was loved by many. A young talent that will be sorely missed.

 

Photo – Photosport

The New Zealand Rugby League Museum has unveiled a new cabinet celebrating Physical Disability Rugby League New Zealand (PDRLNZ) and their contribution to the game.

As an associate member of NZRL, PDRLNZ has provided our players with a platform to develop, succeed and grow through rugby league, no matter the barrier. This cabinet showcases PDRLNZ’s contribution to the game on and off the field, as they continue to bridge the gap between disabled and non-disabled athletes, break down social stigmas and effect change within our communities.

Since its launch in 2015, PDRLNZ has worked tirelessly to provide a platform for our disabled athletes to showcase their skills domestically and internationally. In 2017, PDRLNZ hosted the inaugural International tournament – the Auckland PDRL Nines. Following this, the PDRLNZ team went to the 2018 Commonwealth Championships in Brisbane, with the New Zealand squad playing a world first PDRL international Tri-test series against Australia and the Commonwealth All Stars. And just recently, PDRLNZ sent a Kiwis team to the 2018 Rugby League Emerging Nations World Championships in Sydney.

Sandra Hickey, Founder and Chair of PDRLNZ says “We are thrilled to have our journey displayed here at NZRL museum alongside the rest of our Rugby League family. This is a proud moment for all of us here at Physical Disability Rugby League New Zealand as history has been made.”

Greg Peters, CEO of NZRL says “PDRLNZ is a perfect example of how we use rugby league to unite communities of people from all tribes and walks of life – which of course, is the Kiwi Way. Their athletes champion the Kiwi Way every single day, embodying values such as diversity, inclusiveness and courage – to name a few.

“PDRLNZ, it’s players, staff, volunteers and all associated, epitomise our More Than A Game philosophy, they lead by example, acting as role-models to all in our league communities from up and down the country. We want to thank them, not only for their work towards growing the game on the field but for effecting important change off the field as well.” Greg concluded.

Looking ahead, NZRL and PDRLNZ are hoping to have PDRL games as test curtain raisers, providing more opportunities for our athletes to play on the international stage.

 

Players, families and supporters from across the decades will head to Murray Halberg Park this weekend as the Marist Rugby League Club celebrates 100 years of existence.

It all starts with a masters game against Pt Chevalier on Friday night, with a number of the two clubs’ best-known players set to take the field.

Pirates legend Stacey Jones will don the No.7 jersey, with Monty Betham and Wairangi Koopu named on the bench, while current Marist coach Francis Meli heads up a Saints team which also includes Willie Wolfgramm and Henry Turua.

The game will be followed by a mix and mingle night at the club.

On Saturday the morning will be full of mini/mod games, and aside from rugby league the day will feature food stalls and activities for kids.

That evening the club will host a black-tie dinner at Alexandra Park in Epsom, with live entertainment from well-known musician Lapi Mariner and his 20/20 band.

The Saints will end the weekend on Sunday with a family day. Entertainment will be provided by the local community, including the Saints Up Performing Arts Academy and Owairaka Primary School.

 

Some points to note on the history of the club:

  • Marist was formed in 1919, with the membership drawing from Marist Brothers schools.
  • The club won its first championship in 1925 with a team featuring Bill Stormont – in whose memory the Stormont Shield is named.
  • The club has won six championships with the most successful team being the 1966 team featuring six Kiwis.
  • The club has produced 46 Kiwis in total including ARL hall of fame inductee Tony Kriletich, trailblazer Oscar Danielson, Sonny Bill Williams, current NZRL high-performance manager Motu Tony and current NRL superstar David Fusitu’a – to name a few
  • In 2019 the club fields teams from under 6’s to premiers including women and masters.

New Zealand rugby league has lost a legend.

 

It’s with great sorrow that we announce Kiwi #634 and Warrior #52, Quentin Pongia, lost his battle with bowel cancer on Saturday, May 18th, 2019.

 

Originally from the West Coast, Pongia moved to Canterbury at 18 in 1988. He crossed the Tasman in 1993 to play for Canberra, winning a premiership with them the following year. He remained with the club through to the end of 1997 before joining the Warriors in 1998, followed by the Roosters, Dragons and Wigan.

 

The relentless prop played 137 NRL games in his 13-year career, in which he gained a reputation as one of the game’s most feared players. On top of this, he also leaves behind a legacy carved by his black and white jersey.

 

Quentin represented the Kiwis 35 times between 1992 and 2000. He played a monumental role in New Zealand’s back-to-back victories over the Kangaroos at North Harbour Stadium in the 1990s, he then went on to captain the 1998 touring team that remains the only Kiwis side unbeaten from a three-test series in England, also earning himself New Zealand Rugby League player of the year.

 

In 2004, Quentin hung up his boots while signed with Wigan when it was discovered that he suffered from the contagious blood disorder hepatitis B. However, his involvement in rugby league didn’t end there. Pongia remained in the game when his playing days finished, having time on Canberra’s football staff and more recently he worked in the wellbeing area for the NRL, the Rugby League Players’ Association and lastly the Manly Sea Eagles.

 

He was also on the Kiwis’ staff for the 2009 end of season Four Nations campaign in the United Kingdom and France.

 

In an interview with stuff.co.nz last year, Quentin said “I’m a passionate Kiwi. That will never change … I’ve been away for 25 years in Australia, but I’m still black and white…It’s something that’s pretty close to my heart.”

 

A gentleman on and off the field, a legend of the game and a true friend to many. New Zealand Rugby League passes on their condolences to Quentin’s friends and family.

 

 

“Like a number of players who played with him, I have nothing but respect and a wonderful friendship with Quentin and although it saddens me to hear of the news, it comforts me to know he has no pain now. Quentin is the toughest individual I have ever played with and I know how hard he fought to beat this terrible disease. He will be sorely missed right across the rugby league community.” – Current Canberra coach and former teammate, Ricky Stuart.

 

“A legend, an absolute legend of rugby league. He played the game full on all the time, gave no quarter and the same with his cancer, he fought it until the bitter end – a wonderful man.” Sir Peter Leitch.

 

Vodafone Warriors and Kiwis hooker Issac Luke tweeted: “Farrrrrout this has saddened our @NRL and @NZRL_Kiwis  community. Moe mai rā tōku tuakana. Thoughts and love to Q’s whanau. No more pain now brother. Only memories of how tough you were as a player on and off the field. May you rest in Love.”

 

Ex-Kiwi and Vodafone Warriors centre Nigel Vagana tweeted: “My @NZRL_Kiwis debut .. the 1st Anzac Test.. Johnny Lomax got hurt in opening 30secs. Q had to play 80mins in the front row, 1st game back after a long suspension & led us to victory. One of the toughest ever in the Black & White. Ka kite ano Uso.”

 

Very sad to hear the passing of Quentin Pongia. One of the toughest NRL players of modern rugby league, and that reflected especially when he represented the Kiwis” – Kiwi and Manly Sea Eagles player, Martin Taupau tweeted.

 

“Being born in NZ but growing up in Oz, I found myself always following Kiwi players, regardless of the club jersey they wore. Quentin Pongia was one of the toughest to ever wear the black jersey and I’m so grateful to have known him. Rest In Peace Q” – Former Kiwi, Dene Halatau tweeted.

 

We invite you to join us at a luncheon hosted by Sir Peter Leitch, in support of Quentin’s family at the Ellerslie Event Centre on June 7.

 

Photo – PhotosportNZ

As seen on nrl.com by Corey Rosser

 

The promise of a permanent spot in the halves was the key factor in Kodi Nikorima deciding to seek an immediate release from Brisbane and join the New Zealand Warriors.

The Warriors announced the signing of Nikorima through until the end of 2021 on Friday, with the 25-year-old expected to debut for his new club against the Dragons during the NRL’s Magic Round at Suncorp Stadium in round nine on Saturday.

Nikorima said the Broncos made it clear they saw teenager Thomas Dearden as their long-term halfback, at which point the positional security on offer at the Warriors became too good to turn down.

 

“[Brisbane] were pretty up front and honest in saying that Tom was probably their future half there,” Nikorima said.

“The Warriors came to me and said that they want me to play in the halves here … in the end it was the best decision for myself.

“At the end of the day it was just the fact that there’s a lot of security here, there’s a future for myself in a position that I want to play.

“The Broncos couldn’t offer me anything like that. I could have waited until the end of the year, but that contract that was on offer [from the Warriors] might not have become available then.

 

“I am grateful for the opportunity that [Brisbane] have given me [by releasing] me right now, and excited about the new journey and new chapter ahead.”

Nikorima said the Kiwi connection at the Warriors was also a crucial factor in his decision to sign with the Auckland-based club.

He was given his Test debut for the Kiwis by now Warriors coach Stephen Kearney in 2015, and he has strong relationships with a number of the squad through time together in camp with New Zealand.

“Knowing Roger [Tuivasa-Sheck] and Issac Luke, who form part of the spine too will definitely help me in transferring from the Broncos into the Warriors’ system,” Nikorima said.

“And also having that relationship with Steve Kearney should help as well.

“That played a big part too. I have had a pretty good relationship with Mooks [Kearney], we have kept in touch over the years and I am really excited to play under him again.”

Nikorima also revealed he and future halves partner Blake Green had already held discussions about the roles they will play in the side, with Nikorima at pains to insist he wouldn’t be attempting to emulate Shaun Johnson’s style.

“I just spoke to Blake briefly before his game [against the Knights] and he sort of said that he wants me playing both sides and just playing off him, I guess playing more of that six role,” Nikorima said.

 

“Things aren’t going to click straight away … it might take time.

“I don’t really see it as replacing Shaun. What Shaun’s done here has been incredible and I don’t want to compare myself to him, nor will I compare myself to the past players like Stacey Jones.

“I have come here to be who I am. I’m Kodi Nikorima, I’m no one else and I won’t ever try and be anyone else.”

 

 

Sir Peter Leitch invites you to a buffet luncheon in support of Quentin Pongia’s family after he sadly lost his battle with cancer. With our M.C. former Vodafone Warrior and Kiwi Jerry Seuseu, come join us for interviews with Stacey Jones, Ruben Wiki and Stephen Kearney, plus a special auction. All proceeds on the day will go to towards Quentin’s two-year-old daughter, Maia.

Click here for tickets. 

Event details:

  • Friday, 7th June at the Ellerslie Event Centre (Auckland Racing Club)
  • Tickets $200.00 per person; each ticket includes a buffet  meal, beer, wine and soft drinks
  • Doors Open 12.00pm – Mix & Mingle with some of the greats of our game
  • Luncheon commences 1.00pm
  • Dress code is ‘Smart Casual’
  • For any further enquiries contact Natalie Stol at natalie.stol@ellerslie.co.nz or phone 09-522-3805

Thank you for your support.

Sir Peter Charles Leitch KNZM QSM

New Zealand Rugby League is saddened to hear of the passing of Kiwi #373 Duncan MacRae who played three Tests for the Kiwis in 1956.

His contribution to New Zealand Rugby League will not be forgotten.

 

 

Rugby league is a sport for all New Zealanders, played from the grassroots level to the international stage. The sport is ‘more than a game’; it is part of the social fabric of our country and has a critical role in developing young men and women in our communities. 2019 sees a busy international calendar including the new Oceania Cup, Great Britain Rugby League Lions Tour, World Nines, games against Tonga and Australia and the Kiwi Ferns playing Fetu Samoa.

For more information on the organisation, please visit www.nzrl.co.nz

The NZRL Board plays a significant role in the organisation’s success, providing surety to stakeholders both within NZ and internationally. Since the Conference of League held in October 2018, NZRL has conducted a planning process to develop a new strategic blueprint to take it forward to 2025. This is nearing completion and will be rolled out in the coming months. The philosophy of More than a Game – Transforming lives and community wellbeing through Rugby League is central to the new strategy.

The Board comprises seven directors; four appointed and three elected. Of the seven there must be three Rugby League Knowledgeable and three independent directors.  A Board Appointment Panel, comprising of two independent Sport NZ representatives, an individual nominated from the Zones and a nominee of the NZRL board, is convening this appointment process.

Interviews will be held in Penrose, Auckland on the morning and early afternoon of 28 May 2019.

 

Positions

The Panel is seeking applicants for one Appointed (Independent) Director vacancy and one Elected Director vacancy. Incumbents are standing again for both roles.

All board members need to understand confidentiality, work collaboratively, possess sound judgment, have good communication and be able to demonstrate leadership ability.

Candidates who have the skill sets set out below and who can bring an element of diversity, particularly gender, to the current board mix will be looked upon favourably by the Appointments Panel.

The skills the Panel is looking for in the Appointed Director includes:

 

  • Experienced director with 5+ years governance experience on a commercial board
  • Strong strategic thinker
  • Established relationships with the ARLC/NRL as well as the wider International Rugby League community
  • Strong financial background
  • Previous experience on an Audit & Risk sub-committee
  • Broadcasting and sports commercial experience

The skills the Panel is looking for in the Elected Director includes:

 

  • Board (governance) experience – particularly with skills in strategic change
  • Able to distinguish between the separate but complementary roles of governance and management, and the need to act in the best interests of the NZRL at all times
  • A strong connection to the game of rugby league either through playing, administration, management, coaching or other roles within the sport.
  • Zone or district board governance experience is preferred but not essential
  • A strong and professional reputation in their business career
  • Strong networks – linked possibly to commercial experience and/or other sporting organisations

Applications for the Elected Director need to be supported by a nomination letter from an NZRL member (Zone or Affiliate) and written acceptance of that nomination by the nominee. Nomination letter templates are available if required.

Time commitment and term

As a guide, we expect an average time commitment of 1 to 1.5 days each month per director. Full day board meetings are held monthly in Auckland.

We anticipate the roles starting immediately after the AGM on 30 June 2019.  Terms are four years and directors are eligible for re-appointment for one further term.

Remuneration

Directors are paid $12,000 per annum.

Interviews

All applicants must be available for interview in Penrose, Auckland on the morning/early afternoon of 28 May 2019.

To Apply


To apply for this role please do so online at www.appointbetterboards.co.nz/APT13415 (brief registration required)

The closing date for applications is 5.00pm Thursday 16 May 2019.

On the eve of ANZAC Day, New Zealand Defence Force Rugby League the have gifted NZRL with a signed jersey from the charity match played at Iraq’s Camp Taji between the NZDF and Australian Defence Force in 2018.

 

Thank you to the New Zealand Defence Force Rugby League for donating a signed jersey from the charity match played at Iraq’s Camp Taji between the NZDF and Australian Defence Force.#TheKiwiWay ??

Posted by New Zealand Rugby League (NZRL) on Tuesday, 23 April 2019

 

In a charity league match held on a sweltering ANZAC Day in 2018, New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) personnel beat their Australian counterparts 32-20.

“Both teams played with passion, despite the heat and the hard surface they had to play on. It was all good fun and for a good cause, and the camaraderie was great,” Task Group Taji’s Regimental Sergeant Major said.

The charity league match raised US$2,373 (about NZ$3,350) for the New Zealand Fallen Heroes Trust, an organisation that provides support for the families of military personnel killed or injured on operations overseas, and US$2,638(about NZ$3,720) for Legacy Australia, an Australian charity supporting families of service personnel.

About 100 New Zealand and 300 Australian troops comprise Task Group Taji, the combined New Zealand-Australian training mission which has trained around 34,000 Iraqi Security Forces personnel since May 2015.

Today marks what would have been Kiwi #556 Bernard Green’s sixtieth birthday.

Bernard Green was among workers in Roa Mine that were killed when a shaft of a coal mine collapsed just after 11am on September 7th 2006.

Bernie was selected for the New Zealand squad that was touring Great Britain and France, becoming Kiwi number 556.

Bernie was a Kiwi, a great guy, working class, a very popular and well-known sportsperson.

Tuesday 9th April 2019 will signal the end of an era for one of Rugby Leagues longest serving members. The 104th Annual General Meeting of West Coast Rugby League will see Peter Kerridge MNZM stand down from the Presidency/Chairmanship which he has held since 1997, thus completing 22 years as Chair, the longest-serving person in that role. During this time Peter also undertook the role of honorary secretary from 2002, doing both roles for 17 years.

Peter started off his involvement in rugby league in the Kohinoor clubs’ midgets in 1948 and was a ball boy for the senior team which was coached by his father. From there he went on to play for Marist school, Greymouth moving through the ranks and on to captaincy of the Marist U18’s and then the Senior B team. He represented the West Coast in these grades. He also became an executive member and treasurer of the Marist club.

Peter left Marist to join the Referees Association and gave 20 years’ service refereeing every Saturday(schoolboys) and Sunday (adults). He held most of the executive positions in the Referees Association at one time or another and was awarded Life Membership in 1986.

He was secretary/publicity officer of the West Coast Rugby League supporters club for 30 years organising functions, raising funds, launching and organising the annual player of the year award.

Apart from all the work associated with these roles he also has oversight of Wingham Park, headquarters of the game on the West Coast. Peters participation in working bees at Wingham Park started alongside his father back in the 1950’s. Through all of this involvement, Peter has accepted no payment or honorarium for any of his contributions to the game.

In addition to his roles with West Coast Rugby League, Peter has been awarded Life Membership not only of West Coast Rugby League (2006) but NZ Rugby League (2007). He was awarded Member NZ Order of Merit MNZM in the New Year’s Honours in 2007. He was an NZRL Board member from 2007-2009, Chairman of the South Island Rugby Leagues Committee 2005-2006 and a Board member of the Canterbury/West Coast Sports Trust from 2005-2007.

Rugby league in general, and the West Coast in particular have benefitted from the professional skills and personal qualities of a professional who held one of the biggest jobs on the West Coast, for some 20 years managing the regions public hospitals and allied services.  He is in constant demand within the rugby league fraternity and beyond for his professional expertise and deep knowledge of the game and its history.

A longstanding feature of Peters contribution to rugby league is his articles that have been published in programmes, magazines, and newspapers. He has compiled histories from local clubs and West Coast Rugby League. At the present point in time, he is working on the Brunner clubs’ book for their centennial. A major history of West Coast Rugby League awaits completion.

Peter is highly respected for his rugby league input as he is available 24/7 despite other demands on his time as a family man and his wider community roles. Most notable however is the consensus, in and outside of the game, that West Coast rugby league has survived in such difficult times because of the extraordinary contribution by Peter.

Whilst relinquishing the Chairman’s role, Peter will not be lost to the game that he has given so much of his life to. He will continue to support and to offer his time and experience where required. He will however now be able to spend more time working on the many projects that he has wanted to complete.

 

 

As seen on warriors.kiwi by Kelly Armitage

Hundreds of Greymouth school students and locals turned out at New Zealand Rugby League and Vodafone Warriors community events this week, with NRL players Eliesa Katoa and Jackson Frei and the club’s community relations team visiting the South Island town.

Sunday’s skills and drills session at the Greymouth Rugby League Open Day for 5-13 year olds was popular, with more than 100 children attending.  The players took children for different activities, giving them tips and tricks, and practising basic rugby league skills.  Later that day a development training session was held for aspiring rugby league players aged 15-18 years old.

Following Sunday’s session with the players’ involvement, the community team held ACC SportSmart visits at three local schools with more than 300 local school children at Grey Main School, Paroa School and Greymouth High School.  The SportSmart programme teaches children how to do sport well so they can perform well, have fun and avoid injuries, setting them up with the knowledge and skills they need for life-long participation in sport and recreation.

The programme is designed to incorporate important aspects of wellbeing that are vital to professional athletes for top performance and also how our children can include this into their daily routines. The school visits have a focus on hydration, sleep and encouraging a strong sense of belonging.

Community Relations Manager Petrece Kesha said the Greymouth visit was a real success. “We know how much Greymouth locals love their rugby league, and it’s always so great coming down here – we know the Vodafone Warriors have a lot of fans in the town and we always get the warmest of welcomes.

“It’s really special being able to connect with communities like Greymouth and bring players in to the town to encourage young athletes and aspiring rugby league players, not only teaching them skills relevant to the game, but also incorporating really important messages about personal wellbeing too.

“Furthermore, both Jackson and Eliesa have never been to Greymouth and they thoroughly enjoyed the experience, spending time with locals and sharing their knowledge and experience,” she said.

Representatives from New Zealand Rugby League including Community Programme Liaison Manager, Ani Cherrington, and Women’s Development and Welfare Manager Luisa Avaiki, who is also the coach of the Warriors women’s team in the NRL took part in the sessions too. Kesha said NZRL’s West Coast Rugby League Development Officer Paddy Byrne was instrumental in organising the trip.

New Zealand Rugby League is spearheading a new career pathways and wellbeing programme alongside Fire and Emergency New Zealand.

Led by NZRL General Manager of Football and Wellbeing Nigel Vagana, the programme launched this week.

Vagana says finding shared pathways within New Zealand is a key part of the NZRL’s new approach to supporting league players here.

“Between the NZRL, the Vodafone Warriors and Fire and Emergency NZ we identified an opportunity that really showcased the benefits of all of our organisations.”

“We want to provide a pathway for our players, we obviously share some common attributes in regards to fitness but also in the community.

“This is the first of it’s kind in New Zealand and we are very excited to ensure it continues.”

Vodafone Warriors Welfare and Education manager Jerry Seuseu highlighted the importance of ensuring players from all grades were able to find careers outside football.

“This is a vital part of maintaining balance for players and to be able to provide yet another pathway is incredible,” he says.

“It’s great to see how quickly the programme has been able to be set up and we’re already getting players, both men and women, through.”

Vagana credited former Warrior Talite Liavaa for playing a key part in getting the programme set up.
Liavaa, Warrior #71, played 11 games between 1999 and 2000 and is now an accomplished firefighter and station officer.

Georgia Hale, Lorina Papali’i, Luisa Avaiki and Donald Tony attended the first session of the programme alongside Vagana and Seuseu.

Liavaa says it’s great to see the link between football and Fire and Emergency created. Former New Zealand Rugby Black Fern Rochelle Martin MNZM has echoed those sentiments.

“This is something that hopefully has great appeal for more codes and sports, there are obvious links between the sporting and emergency services communities and it would be great to see this expand.”

The programme itself is an introduction to fire-fighting and the services that Fire and Emergency provides. Ultimately players are able to work with a mentor to go through the recruitment process and, if successful, join the ranks of Fire and Emergency NZ.

NZRL CEO Greg Peters says the vision of the programme is to help find careers for players but also to encourage younger players to see there is a life outside football.

“We want to ensure that our players, through all grades, can see that there are opportunities for them to play football and have a career at the same time,” Peters says.

“Partnering with Fire and Emergency NZ is one initiative we are very proud to have kicked off.

“This is just the beginning, we are constantly working to bring these opportunities to fruition for the betterment of the game and our players across the country.”

The Kiwi Ferns will play the Fetu Samoa women’s team as part of a blockbuster All-Pacific double header on June 22 at Mt Smart Stadium in Auckland.

 

The women’s match will enhance what will be an electric occasion as the New Zealand Kiwis take on Mate Ma‘a Tonga in the second match of the double-header – the highly-anticipated opening match of the Oceania Cup.

 

The women’s match will be the first time the two Pacific rivals have clashed in 11 years, with the Kiwi Ferns winning the last match between the two nations at the 2008 Women’s Rugby League World Cup in Brisbane.

 

New Zealand Rugby League Chief Executive Officer Greg Peters was thrilled to announce the match.

 

“The Kiwi Ferns versus Fetu Samoa match is going to enhance what is going to be a momentous occasion for Rugby League in New Zealand and the wider Pacific.”

 

“We’re really thrilled that players from both teams will have the opportunity to play in front of their friends, families and supporters.”

 

“The women’s game is a real priority and it’s key we give the Kiwi Ferns the opportunity to play in Aotearoa and inspire young girls across New Zealand who dream of pulling on the black and white jersey.”

 

Rugby League Samoa President Tagaloa Faafouina Su’a said he was delighted that Fetu Samoa would get to face top class opposition in the Kiwi Ferns.

 

“It’s great to have Fetu Samoa back playing 13-a-side Test Rugby League on what will be a really special occasion for our team.”

 

“Developing Fetu Samoa is a real focus for us, so to have our women playing on such a big stage is a real boost for the women’s game.”

Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development, Head of Major Events Stuart Turner says the announcement of Fetu Samoa as opponents for the Kiwi Ferns clash is the perfect complement to a blockbuster year of league events taking place in Auckland.

 

“We are excited to be in a position to host such an exciting array of teams, and provide a great platform to highlight women’s sports particularly while the secretariat for the International Working Group on Women and Sport is based here in Auckland,” he says.

 

“This historic double header will attract a strong crowd of supporters from throughout the country and the Pacific in one of our traditionally quieter months.”

 

Tickets go on sale for the double-header at Mt Smart Stadium on April 11. Fans can join the waitlist for early access to tickets at GBOceaniaTour.com.

 

The Kiwis-Mate Ma‘a Tonga clash is the first time the two teams will meet since Tonga shocked the Kiwis in Hamilton during the Rugby League World Cup.

 

Gates at Mt Smart Stadium will open at 4pm on June 22 with the Kiwi Ferns-Fetu Samoa match kicking off at 5pm.

 

The Oceania Cup opener between the New Zealand Kiwis and Mate Ma‘a Tonga will kick off at 7.30pm.

Sir Peter Leitch invites you to a buffet luncheon to support Quentin Pongia to raise funds to help him in his fight to battle cancer. With our M.C. former Vodafone Warrior and Kiwi Jerry Seuseu, come join us for interviews with Stacey Jones, Ruben Wiki and Stephen Kearney, plus a special auction. All proceeds on the day will go to the Quentin Pongia Trust.

Click here for tickets. 

Event details:

  • Friday, 7th June at the Ellerslie Event Centre (Auckland Racing Club)
  • Tickets $200.00 per person; each ticket includes a buffet  meal, beer, wine and soft drinks
  • Doors Open 12.00pm – Mix & Mingle with some of the greats of our game
  • Luncheon commences 1.00pm
  • Dress code is ‘Smart Casual’
  • For any further enquiries contact Natalie Stol at natalie.stol@ellerslie.co.nz or phone 09-522-3805

Thank you for your support.

Sir Peter Charles Leitch KNZM QSM

 

 

As seen on NRL.com by Senior Reporter Margie McDonald

 

Martin Taupau has the chance to do his bit and support his New Zealand brothers and sisters when Manly play the Warriors in Christchurch later in March.

But that is round three. Taupau’s first focus is on the Roosters at Lottoland on Sunday in round two.

However, the scenes and consequences of the mosque shootings in Christchurch last Friday have jolted Taupau into thinking of next week’s visit.

He has been watching and listening at the outpouring of emotion from nations worldwide. And it makes his chest swell.

“It makes me not only proud to be a New Zealander but proud to be a human being,” Taupau said on Monday.

“There’s so much love going on around the world in support that gives me a lot of faith in humanity at the moment.

“It’s a great sign with world leaders, movie stars, other influential people and sporting leaders of every capacity have come out in support. It’s awesome.”

Tapau was born and bred in south Auckland, but events like last Friday immediately unite the South and North islands.

“New Zealanders are New Zealanders. We’re all from one mother.”

 

 

That explains in part his anxiety to get back home for the round three game at Christchurch’s ANZ Stadium.

“It will great for us to get in among the community and show our support not just as a club but also as the NRL.

“It’s hard, it’s a very sensitive subject to talk about, not just for there but for everyone globally.

“It’s very sad and you feel lost for words.”

Manly and the Warriors are sure to make their presence felt in the local community and try to spread some kinship and friendship.

But first, the Roosters. The premiers are coming off a loss, which is never an easy scenario to face.

“It’s perfect for us to play them at Lottoland. It’s our ground so hopefully we get the support out and not the torrential rain,” Taupau said.

The Sea Eagles will be without Addin Fonua-Blake after he copped a one-match ban after being charged for two dangerous tackles in the 20-6 loss to the Wests Tigers last Saturday.

Fonua-Blake was the highest metre-eater for the Sea Eagles with 198 metres.

“It’s hard but we’ve definitely got the muscle with Kelepi [Tanginoa] back [injured knee in Sharks trial] and Jake [Trbojevic] on fire as well. Jake can do a million tackles and get up and not look fatigued at all. Same with Api Koroisau,” Taupau said.

“Our defence was astronomical. It was awesome compared with the last three years. Our defensive structure was there – the intent, just everything. It all came into place.”

 

 

Trbojevic agreed the defence was resolute against the Tigers but it only lasted for three-quarters of the game.

“I guess we put ourselves under too much pressure [with errors] which got us in the end,” he said.

“Our defence was good and that gave us a lot of confidence. But you can’t keep putting yourselves under that sort of pressure and come away with a win.

“They kept getting repeat set, repeat set on our errors and penalties.”

Trbojevic’s clash with Roosters No.13 Victor Radley will be a key head-to-head contest this Saturday.

“He is great to watch and does everything at 100 miles an hour. He has great impact so any team will have to watch him,” he said.

 

 

 

Auckland, New Zealand, March 18, 2018 – Vastly-experienced Justin Morgan has today been confirmed as Kiwi Ferns head coach through to the 2021 Women’s Rugby League World Cup.

The 43-year-old former Parramatta, Canberra and Warriors forward takes on the role after assisting the Kiwi Ferns with their preparation for last year’s one-off Test against the Australian Jillaroos.

His appointment comes at a time when the Kiwi Ferns have been confirmed to line up in end-of-season Tests against the Pacific Islands and the Jillaroos.

“Justin is the ideal coach to lead us forward and develop not only our female players but the coaching and support staff that will be involved in the Kiwi Ferns” said New Zealand Rugby League GM high performance Motu Tony.

“His vast experience as both a coach and player at professional and international level will bring valuable high-performance knowledge which will benefit the Kiwi Ferns and our women’s game in general.

“I look forward to working with Justin to prepare the Kiwi Ferns for the RLWC in 2021, grow the women’s game in New Zealand and prepare the next generation of players and staff capable of representing the Kiwi Ferns in the years to come.”

Tony said the Kiwi Ferns and women’s rugby league are a major priority for the NZRL.

“The 2021 World Cup is an opportunity to add to our three World Cup wins (2000, 2005 and 2008) and regain our status as the best international women’s team in the world,” he said.

After his playing days were ended prematurely, Morgan began a long coaching career which included seven seasons with Hull Kingston Rovers from 2005-2011. He has also been an assistant coach with Canberra, Melbourne and the Warriors as well as the New Zealand Kiwis.

 

 

There are two Selected Executive Committee vacancies for the Masters of Rugby League New Zealand Incorporated as determined by a revised constitution registered with the Incorporated Societies on the 21st February 2019.

 

Please forward your expressions of interest by email to admin@nzrl.co.nz by no later than 4pm on Friday the 29 March 2019. Please include a bio outlining your experience and suitability for the role with your email.

 

 

 

NZRL would like to outline significant recent changes that have been made, or are in the process of being made, to the Governance of Masters of Rugby League NZ (an Associate Member of NZRL). This is to ensure that the communication is consistent on this matter.

Background
In 2018 NZRL responded to feedback from the game, with respect to the current status of the Masters of Rugby League NZ (MoRLNZ).
The NZRL Board discussed this matter on a number of occasions and in early 2019 a letter was sent to MoRLNZ requesting that:

• The current constitution be reviewed and updated to a more modern version, including membership criteria that is more representative of its membership of Masters’ Clubs in New Zealand.

• A Special General Meeting be called to adopt the changes to the Constitution prior to the AGM.

• MoRLNZ disestablish the existing Executive Committee and allow for a democratic process to appoint Executive Committee members in accordance with the new Constitution.

• 2019 annual accounts are prepared.

• The AGM is convened prior to 31 March 2019.

• MoRLNZ and NZRL to work together to agree a Memorandum of Understanding as provided for in NZRL’s Constitution.
Subsequent progress

 

NZRL has received a positive response from MoRLNZ and the Association is working hard to meet all the requirements set out by NZRL. This includes:
• An SGM was held in February, 2019 and the a new Constitution was approved, which is now available online at the Incorporated Societies website.

• Districts Masters Associations will now have the opportunity to become full voting members as part of the new Constitution.

• The revamped Constitution provides a full explanation of the transitional and future membership and Executive Committee structures.

• The new Executive Committee will be made up of four Elected members and three Selected members.

• As part of the three Selected members, NZRL will appoint one NZRL Board representative.

• The remaining two Selected members will be appointed to the Executive Committee by way of an independent appointments panel. This will take place either before or following the AGM, now scheduled for late March/early April.

 

NZRL is committed to continuing to work closely with various Masters’ stakeholders to ensure a positive outcome for all NZ Masters teams, whereby a united approach is achieved with ONE Masters Association.

 

 

 

New Zealand is set to get a massive injection of international rugby league matches in 2019, with the Great Britain Rugby League Lions tour of New Zealand and Papua New Guinea, and the inaugural Oceania Cup getting the green light.

 

The first match of the Oceania Cup has the New Zealand Kiwis going head-to-head with Mate Ma’a Tonga at Mt Smart in the re-match that everyone has been waiting for. The Kiwi Ferns will also take on a Pacific Island team on the same night. This mid-season clash is one of three Tests the Kiwis will play in New Zealand, with the end-of-season Test against the Kangaroos being played in Wollongong.

 

The inaugural Oceania Cup will be made up of Pool A – comprising New Zealand, Australia, and Tonga  – and Pool B – made up of Samoa, Fiji and Papua New Guinea.

 

Organisers also announced that the Great Britain Rugby League Lions will be in action in the southern hemisphere for the first time in 13 years, playing two Test matches against New Zealand (2 November at Eden Park and 9 November at Christchurch Stadium) and Tests against Tonga and Papua New Guinea.

 

New Zealand Rugby League CEO Greg Peters said he was “excited to see all the hard work behind the scenes come into fruition with more international rugby league content locked in for our country and our fans.”

 

“We could not be doing this without the support of New Zealand Government, the host cities and NZRL’s commercial partners so I’m incredibly grateful to all of them for making this possible.”

 

“Our rugby league community in New Zealand has been hoping for more international and Kiwis fixtures in our back yard for a while now so I’m pleased we’re able to deliver on this for them,”

 

“New Zealand Rugby League is also delighted to be bringing such an event to New Zealand that will also benefit the teams throughout the Pacific.”

 

RLIF Southern Hemisphere General Manager Jeremy Edwards was delighted to announce such a packed schedule.

 

“This international program is both exciting and ground-breaking and it is great to see the Great Britain Rugby League Lions following in the historic footprints of previous tours.”

“The Oceania Cup is an important step in creating a full international calendar that fans, players and commercial partners can enjoy.”

 

“It has taken a huge amount of work to deliver this and I commend the efforts of all those who have brought us to this point. It is a great platform for the international game in the Asia Pacific Region.”

Rugby League Players’ Association (RLPA) Chief Executive Officer Ian Prendergast says the Oceania Cup and Great Britain Rugby League Lions are fantastic additions to the International Rugby League calendar.

 

“It is fantastic that there will be significant international content in 2019, including new properties in the Nines and the Oceania Cup, as well as the Great Britain Rugby League Lions touring down under.”

 

“It reflects the enhanced profile, interest and competitiveness of International Rugby League. In particular, the Oceania Cup provides a tremendous new platform for the Pacific nations to compete on the world stage.”

 

“We have enjoyed working through the process with the RLIF and the nations to establish the schedule for 2019 and look forward to continuing these discussions when planning for future matches takes place.”

 

“The international game presents exciting opportunities for our members and through continued collaboration we look forward to further showcasing the wonderful rugby league talent we have in the game.”

 

Rugby Football League chief executive Ralph Rimmer said the return of the Great Britain Rugby League Lions was highly-anticipated.

 

“The return of the famous Great Britain jersey is something people have been talking about for a long time so this is an exciting announcement for us.”

 

“It’s 12 years since Great Britain last played a Test, and 13 since they last travelled to the southern hemisphere, for the Tri-Nations series of 2006.”

 

“There is such history and tradition around that Great Britain shirt, it’s great for the game to have it back and we’ll be committed to respecting and honouring that tradition.”

 

Note: Event organisers are grateful for the support for New Zealand government through the Major Events Development Fund, ATEED, H3 and ChristchurchNZ.

 

2019 Kiwis fixtures:

 

Saturday, 22 June – Kiwis v Mate Ma’a Tonga – Mt Smart Stadium, Auckland, New Zealand

Friday, 25 October – Kiwis v Kangaroos – WIN Stadium, Wollongong, Australia

Saturday, 2 November – Kiwis v Great Britain Rugby League Lions – Eden Park, Auckland, New Zealand

Saturday, 9 November – Kiwis  v Great Britain Rugby League Lions – Christchurch Stadium, Christchurch, New Zealand

 

 

 

By Adam Pearse – Northern Advocate

With the last name ‘Woodman-Tuhoro’ it’s hard to stay out of the spotlight in Northland rugby and league circles.

But Tea-Rani Woodman-Tuhoro is making a name for himself as one to watch for the future, being selected in the New Zealand Rugby League under-16 wider squad for 2019.

After the initial selection, the 15-year-old Whangārei Boys’ High School student made it through the first squad reduction from 40 to 26 players.

The squad would be reduced further to 18 players, but the young winger was hopeful he would make it through the final selection.

“There’s some pretty good wingers there, so hopefully I can be the best winger and get in.”

As well as his national selection, Woodman-Tuhoro signed a four-year contract with the New Zealand Warriors in October last year.

The Auckland-based club were drawn to the young Northlander after his performances at a regional league tournament in Rotorua.

“It was before one of our biggest games against Bay of Plenty and some of the boys started saying I was being scouted,” he said.

The club’s interest was a surprise to Woodman-Tuhoro, who hadn’t known he was being watched by Warriors representatives.

“It kind of put me off, it took my mind out of the game because I didn’t want to make a mistake, but I must have played all right because they called my mum and my coach afterwards, which was pretty cool.”

The contract allowed Woodman-Tuhoro to stay in Whangārei for the remainder of the year, at least.

After turning 16 in December this year, Woodman-Tuhoro’s future in Northland would be unclear as he had the possibility of being selected and could join the Warriors development set-up in Auckland.

For Woodman-Tuhoro, living in Northland and travelling to Auckland for Warriors training camps was the best of both worlds.

“I probably wouldn’t want to live in Auckland, I’d miss my family in Whangārei and all my mates that are here.”

Both sides of Woodman-Tuhoro’s family had been heavily involved in rugby and league. His grandfather on his father’s side, George Tuhoro, formerly managed the under-16 and junior national league teams.

On his mother’s side, Woodman-Tuhoro’s grandfather, Fred Woodman, was an All Blacks winger and is the father of Black Ferns sevens legend Portia Woodman.

While it was big reputation to live up to, Woodman-Tuhoro said he was proud of his family’s history in the two sports.

Woodman-Tuhoro’s grandparents became a big influence in his life when his parents separated when he was a child. He said having an All Black for a grandfather was great for motivation.

“He’s definitely one of my idols, and he’s always at my games.”

Ironically, Woodman-Tuhoro didn’t find his way to league until he was 8 years old.

Once he started playing, he was immediately in multiple age-grade representative teams.

After taking a break from league to play rugby for two years, Woodman-Tuhoro, at age 13, returned to league and was picked in the national age-group squad two years later.

With dreams of playing for either the Warriors or the Brisbane Broncos, Woodman-Tuhoro said he was happy to take things one step at a time and enjoy time with his friends.

“I just want to do my best in rugby league and go hard,” he said.

“My friends always give me a bit of stick and say things like, ‘I’m sitting next to a Warrior’, or they shake my hand and say, ‘I’ve just shaken the hand of a Warrior’.”

Former coach Hori Tuhoro, who is also Woodman-Tuhoro’s uncle, said he knew his nephew had enormous potential from a young age.

“I’ve always known he’s had that talent, and he was quite easy to coach as well.

“He’s been to a lot of camps now with rugby and league so he’s a bit ahead of the rest of the boys in terms of development.”

Tuhoro, who coached his nephew in the Takahiwai rugby league club under-15 team last year, said Woodman-Tuhoro was the whole package on the field, but also had the skills to manage the pressure of the national spotlight.

“He hasn’t had all that pressure yet, so give him time, but he will be able to cope with it because he’s in that frame of mind to want to go all the way.

“It’s always been his dream to make the NRL as a little kid so I’m pretty proud.”

Woodman-Tuhoro will attend more training camps in Auckland with the wider squad in April and July before the final selection of 18 players is confirmed.

As seen on TVNZ Breakfast and the 1 Newsnow website.

Retired Kiwi league player Lewis Brown is using the heartbreak of losing his father to suicide to help him launch a new career as a fashion designer.

Brown retired from the NRL after last season and has since found a new passion to invest his time in – clothing.

“I’ve always been into fashion and I’ve always liked sneakers and street fashion,” he told TVNZ1’s Breakfast.

“My biggest fear while I was playing footy was ‘am I ever going to be passionate about something as much as footy when I finish’, so I found that passion in fashion and decided to bite the bullet, jump in the deep end and launch my own range.”

The result was Earl’s Collection – a street clothing label launched at the start of February.

Despite his limited knowledge on terminologies in the business, Brown is already seeing success, with an excess of 300 orders in two weeks.

The former Kiwis second-rower, who played in the NRL for the Warriors, Penrith and Manly, said he found inspiration for the name from his dad.

“My middle name is Earl and my father’s middle name is also Earl,” he said.

“Unfortunately, two years ago, my father took his own life. I never really had much of relationship with my dad when I was younger – I grew up with my single mum – and it was a bit of a tough time.

“But my dad was styley dude so I kind of just thought, ‘I didn’t really have the relationship I did when I was with him when I was younger,’ so I’m taking him on this journey now.

“When my dad’s stuff happened, it taught me that life is too short and to do something that you love doing.”

Brown says since launching the company, he’s living life with a smile on his face.

“I’m picking and packing orders out of my own lounge and stuff like that so I’m really connected to the brand.”

 

New Zealand Rugby League is pleased to announce the appointment of new Board Member, Grant Stapleton. He fills the Independent Board Director position left vacant by Motu Tony, who joined the NZRL senior leadership team as General Manager of High Performance in June of last year.

Stapleton boasts over 30 years of experience as a director, executive leader and entrepreneur bringing a wealth of knowledge in finance and strategy. He has led numerous businesses to success spanning various different industries including Bakers Delight, Hue, Mariposa Restaurant Holdings (holding company of Mexicali Fresh and Burger Wisconsin), Retail New Zealand, Thermal Solutions Holdings, Collective Hospitality, Laser Group Holdings and ATL Group.

Grant is also managing director of specialist consulting company, Cornell Consulting Group, which assists clients in the areas of financial performance, organisational design and strategy.

NZRL Chairman Reon Edwards welcomes yet another valuable addition to the NZRL team which, led by CEO Greg Peters, enters a new era of change and progression as the national body looks to reinvigorate the rugby league landscape in New Zealand.

“Grant’s track record as a director is exemplary. We as a Board are pleased to have his expertise at the table as we look to solidify our strategic plan for the next four years,”

“There are some exciting prospects in the pipeline for rugby league both in New Zealand and internationally, that could be hugely beneficial for the grassroots game and we know our hard-working communities are really looking forward to another action-packed season ahead,” Edwards said.

When asked what drew him to his new position on the NZRL Board, Stapleton said, “Sport and rugby league are inextricably woven into the fabric of NZ. This is a great opportunity to grow our communities and the interactions they have through the sport of rugby league.”

Alongside the new additions to the NZRL Board, CEO Greg Peters’ senior leadership team is now complete with the recently appointed General Manager of Commercial and Communications, Gordon Gibbons and former Kiwi Nigel Vagana, moving into the General Manager of Football and Wellbeing.

Gibbons has been involved in rugby league for several decades having recently been the New Zealand Warriors Corporate Sales Manager following his 10-year stint as Football Operations Manager at Auckland Rugby League. He was also the Kiwis Team Manager for the infamous 2008 World Cup winning team.

New Zealand Rugby League Board: Reon Edwards (Chair), Elizabeth Richards (Vice-Chair), Hugh Martyn, Tawera Nikau, Bill McEntee, Andrew Fraser, Grant Stapleton.

By Stuff.co.nz – Sam Phillips

It’s all about iwi for the New Zealand Māori All Stars.

Iwi, the Māori word for “people” or “nation”, identifies which tribe a New Zealand native is from and when the official team lists are printed in Friday’s match program, each player will have their iwi next to their surname.

That will mark a proud moment for each of the inaugural Māori All Stars and their families, according to hooker Brandon Smith.

“It’s definitely a proud moment, particularly for my mother’s side of the family,” Smith said in Melbourne.

“She’s a Māori and for her this is massive. Getting to see my iwi next to my name in the team lists – she was super excited.

“This game is for her.”

Many of Smith’s team-mates feel the same way.

While not all are well versed in the intricacies of their heritage, James Tamou pointed to each player’s family roots when asked what the game meant to those taking part.

“It’s what you grow up with as family,” Tamou said.

“That’s why all the Māori players are here, representing that.

“Even still to this day there are parts of my family that are pretty solid foundation, keeping strong within the Māori culture in our family.

“They want to help me out and that’s why I’m here: to represent them.”

Each Māori All Star was presented with a special greenstone upon arrival in camp on Sunday.

The gift will serve as a reminder of the culture the team is representing when they run onto AAMI Park on Friday night.

“It was a gift to take away on your journey so you always remember where you came from,” Tamou said.

“All these players have their own journey in life and they will always be part of the Maori heritage and Maori culture to go with it.

“Some boys will cherish it everywhere we go.”

The energy with which the Maori men have embraced the new All Stars concept leads one to believe the NRL may be onto a winner.

The fan vote, combined with the clash of two iconic cultures, leads Maori coach Stacey Jones to believe the concept would work in New Zealand as well.

“I’m sure it would [do well] anywhere in New Zealand,” he said.

“When you look at the calibre of players on both teams – there would be massive support.

“It’s very special.

“These guys playing in this game are giving back to the game, giving back to the Māori people.

“Hopefully some kids that will be watching will say one day I want to be in that team.”

Tamou echoed Jones’ sentiment.

“As soon as they announced it, I imagined the passion which was going to come out from both teams,” he said.

“It will be unreal. It will be a good showcase for the fans.

“This week we are getting a really good understanding about Māori and I’m sure the Indigenous team are doing the same over there.

“When it all comes together it will show how cultures collide and not only the excitement of football but how passionate the players can all be about it.”

Smith believes that passion would also translate to a potential Pacific Nations team.

Should Friday’s match prove a success, the Storm hooker suggested a Tri Nations type tournament should be looked at in the near future.

But first, Smith believes stamping this fixture as an annual event should be top priority.

“It showcases the two cultures and the ability that they have, so I think it’s a really good idea,” he said.

“The way the NRL is pushing it at the moment … hopefully it goes really well.

“What the Tongans have done for rugby league is really good for the Pacific Nations.

“Hopefully one day we could get a Pacific team as well in there – a tri series – something like that.”

Smith also likes the notion of taking the match to New Zealand but with Storm-Warriors games often drawing 50-50 crowds, he cheekily suggested it may feel like a home match on Friday anyway.

“I think we will have a lot of home support. When we played the Anzac test at AAMI Park there were a lot of Kiwis there,” he said.

“Melbourne has a lot of Kiwi fans, so hopefully they all turn up on the weekend.”

NZRL are now open to receiving applications of interest for the roles of Head Coach, Assistant Coach and Head Trainer for the Kiwi Ferns and the Junior Kiwis.

Applications close at 5pm on Monday 25 February 2019.

Kiwi Ferns Head Coach Job Description, click here.

Kiwi Ferns Assistant Coach Job Description, click here. 

Kiwi Ferns Head Trainer Job Description, click here. 

Junior Kiwis Head Coach Job Description, click here.

Junior Kiwis Assistant Coach Job Description, click here. 

Junior Kiwis Head Trainer Job Description, click here. 

For any enquiries about the roles or if you are interested in applying, please send your covering letter and coaching CV to: motu.tony@nzrl.co.nz before the allocated time and date.

By NRL.com Reporter, Chris Kennedy

After a one-year hiatus, a revamped NRL Harvey Norman All Stars fixture is back on the calendar with the New Zealand Māori to take on the Indigenous All Stars for the first time.

The move is a positive one with the Māori to present a welcome – and no doubt passionate – addition to the fixture.

Both teams will boast some huge names as well as some scintillating young talent.

While the Indigenous side will be without the likes of Ryan James and Greg Inglis (both knee), and Ben Barba (deregistered) and the Māori team has lost Jordan McLean (Townsville floods), their absences present opportunities to other players.

They won’t have an easy time of it against a Māori side boasting a stack of Test talent including Jesse and Kenny Bromwich, Dane Gagai, Peta Hiku, Adam Blair, Tohu Harris, Kevin Proctor, James Tamou and Dean Whare.

What you need to know

Key Match-up

Cody Walker and Tyrone Roberts v Kalyn Ponga and Jahrome Hughes. The two halves pairings in this match have boundless ability. For the Indigenous side, Walker and Roberts bring plenty of experience, calm heads and, in Roberts, the most developed kicking game from either team.

While Walker is one of the code’s most dangerous running halves the Māori team still has the edge in this department with Ponga and Hughes both still better-recognised as dangerous running fullbacks despite each spending time in the halves last season.

With the squads having so little time to gel there is a chance the game plan goes out the window – which would play into the Māori pair’s hands – but any extra control and polish Roberts and Walker can add could well prove the difference in even an unstructured contest.

For the Indigenous All Stars to win

The injury to Ryan James leaves the Indigenous squad a little light on for props. They have one of the most dangerous big men on the planet in Andrew Fifita but for the Indigenous side to triumph, he will need some good support from the likes of promising but uncapped rookie Kerr and journeymen Leilani Latu and Chris Smith to match it with a powerful Māori pack that has five middle forwards with Test experience in the squad.

For the Māori All Stars to win

You can all but guarantee that potent pack will create some attacking sets for the Māori side. While none of their playmakers (which also includes fullback Peta Hiku and hooker Brandon Smith) is playing out of position as such, each is playing in a jersey number which has not been their regular one at NRL level. The question is whether something of a makeshift spine can come together in time to create enough point-scoring opportunities to win the match – if they can do that they’ll go a long way towards claiming the trophy.

Indigenous Stat Attack

Players from the Indigenous squad were near the top of some significant stats in the Telstra Premiership last season. Winger Blake Ferguson finished best for total and average metres with 4862 at 203 per game. Andrew Fifita’s 70 offloads were the second-best of all players while his 105 busts were the second-most of any forward.

When it comes to line breaks, Ferguson (19), Walker (18), Mitchell (17) and Addo-Carr (16) were all in the top 10 of the competition. There’s no doubt this squad contains some of the most dangerous ball-runners in the game right now.

Māori Stat Attack

The weight of Test experience in favour of the Māori side is startling. In total the Indigenous squad has 33 Test caps shared among five players. The Māori team has a whopping 223 Test caps among 17 players. In fact, from the entire squad only the two halves and Corey Harawira-Naera are yet to represent their nation in a Test and even then it’s probably just a matter of time.

These numbers include starts for Tier 2 nations but the gulf only gets wider if you trim it to just Tier 1 caps – the Indigenous squad have nine Tongan caps between Fifita and Latu while the Māori team have four Cook Islands jerseys between Brad Takairangi and Esan Marsters. The remaining 219 Test starts for the Māori side are all for Australia (Dane Gagai and James Tamou) and New Zealand. Adam Blair’s 47 Kiwi Test caps outnumber the entire Indigenous squad’s Test experience.

Maroons and Kangaroos back Dane Gagai is one of a handful of players in the NRL to qualify for both teams and this year becomes the first player to represent both the Indigenous and Māori All Stars. Gagai’s cousin and one-time Indigenous All Star Josh Hoffman could potentially become another in future

Televised

Live on Nine, Fox League

Indigenous All Stars

Bevan French (Eels); Blake Ferguson (Eels), James Roberts (Broncos), Latrell Mitchell (Roosters), Josh Addo-Carr (Storm); Cody Walker (Rabbitohs), Tyrone Roberts (Titans); Andrew Fifita (Sharks), Nathan Peats (Titans), Josh Kerr (Dragons), David Fifita (Broncos), Adam Elliott (Bulldogs), Tyrone Peachey (Titans). Interchange: Will Chambers (Storm), Leilani Latu (Titans), Chris Smith (Bulldogs), Alex Johnston (Rabbitohs), Jesse Ramien (Knights), Tyrell Fuimaono (Panthers), Kotoni Staggs (Broncos).

New Zealand Māori All Stars

Peta Hiku (Warriors); Dane Gagai (Rabbitohs), Esan Marsters (Wests Tigers), Dean Whare (Panthers), Jordan Kahu (Broncos); Kalyn Ponga (Knights), Jahrome Hughes (Storm); Jesse Bromwich (Storm), Brandon Smith (Storm), James Tamou (Panthers), Kevin Proctor (Titans), Tohu Harris (Warriors), Adam Blair (Warriors). Interchange:Danny Levi (Knights), Brad Takairangi (Eels), James Fisher-Harris (Panthers),  Gerard Beale (Warriors), Corey Harawira-Naera (Bulldogs), Joseph Tapine (Raiders), Kenny Bromwich (Cowboys)

After a highly successful 2020 Talent Development Programme held in Cambridge last month, New Zealand Rugby League wishes to announce and congratulate those players who have been selected in the New Zealand Resident 16s and 18s, 26-man squads.

80 of the best 16s and 18s players in the country were put through their paces both on and off the field at the three-day camp, with everything they learnt culminating in two trial matches on the final day. The talent on display left selectors with some difficult decisions to make as players battled it out in hopes of catching the coaches’ eyes.

These squads will assemble on the first Monday of the school holidays, 15 April and 8 July, with a game in October to be announced in the coming months.

New Zealand Resident 16s Wider Squad 2020

AKARANA; Benaiah Ioelu, Zion Maiu’u, Paaua Papuni-Abbott: AUCKLAND; Nathaniel Tangimataiti, Nathaniel Cama, Stanley Iongi, Heneli Luani, Sione Vaihu, Filipo Whitehouse-Opetaia Tovio, Sione Fotuaika: COUNTIES MANUKAU; Ali Leiataua, Ben Peni, Carlos Tarawhiti, Salesi Ataata, Francis Manulelua. MID CENTRAL; Arama Kite, Fatiauma Moeahu-Leota: NORTHLAND; Tea-Rani Woodman-Tuhoro: SOUTHERN; Felix Fa’atili, Jaedon Wellington, Ethan Faitaua, Nikau Waikato, Uriah Tuli: UPPER CENTRAL; Manaia Ngataki-Matthews, Cassius Cowley: WELLINGTON; Joshua Williams.

Head Coach: Bejay Hewitt

Assistant Coaches: Eugene Davis and Chris Langley

Trainers: Sean Witanga

New Zealand Resident 18s Wider Squad 2020

AKARANA; Caleb Pese, Luani Tavake Naufahu Whyte, Moala Graham-Taufa, Jyris Glamuzina, Lani Graham-Taufa, Matthew Palu, Temple Kalepo, Totive Junior Tuileisu: AUCKLAND; Eteru Ropati: COUNTIES MANUKAU; Otukinekina Kepu, Peesi Vailangi Kepu, Semisi Sikei, Taniela Otukolo, Paea Fotu, Quinnlan Tupou, Semisi Tapa, Sione Moala, William Fakatoumafi: MID CENTRAL; Brooklyn Herewini, Tyson Chase: SOUTHERN; Jordan Coleman, Levi Pascoe, Caius Fa’atili. UPPER CENTRAL; Sean Field, Tukimihia Simpkins. WELLINGTON; Dallas McEwan.

Head Coach: Tusa Lafaele

Assistant Coaches: Cody Walker and Daniel McEwan

Trainers: Lee Paru and Jasen McCarthy

Manager: Tania Harris

Physio: Allan Horn

Taranaki Masters Rugby League invite expressions of interest from any rugby league players 35 years and over or league legends who are wanting to be part of this 2019 Masters Rugby League event in Taranaki, New Zealand on 16 March at Hickford Park, Bell Block.

To register or for more information, please contact Sam Pullen on 0274485358 or email sam.pullen@jci.com.

It was a trip down memory lane for Kiwis hooker Brandon Smith, and a once in a lifetime experience for 48 kids at the Waiheke Island Holiday Blast.

A Waiheke Rams junior, Smith has in recent years become a key part of the Melbourne Storm’s NRL side and a capped Kiwi international.

This week marked the first time the Auckland Rugby League has taken its school holiday programme to the island, and Smith said as soon as he found out it coincided with his visit to Waiheke, he was keen to be part of it.

“What stood out to me was the attendance, to see so many happy faces, it reminded me of when I was a junior,” Smith said.

“I loved being here at the rugby league club when I was younger, so just seeing the amount of kids with smiles on their faces, you can tell they are having a really good time.”

Smith spoke to the attendees and took part in activities with them, and believed the programme was a great way to grow rugby league.

“This is something that can help grow the sport moving forward on the island,” he said.

“I gave up my time because I really want to help rugby league grow here in New Zealand, not just on Waiheke, and I believe it starts from grassroots rugby league.”

Auckland Rugby League CEO Greg Whaiapu said it was great to see a local player giving back to his community.

“For Brandon to do this and spend his free time helping the next generation of Auckland footy players, speaks volumes about the person he is,” Whaiapu said.

“It’s always special to meet your sporting heroes, and even better when they come from the same club you are playing at.

“We are very grateful for Brandon’s time and effort – he’s left a bunch of kids with an experience they will never forget.”

Team Fisher-Harris proved too good for Team Papali’i at the final hooter of the 16s trial, final score reading 24-16.

16s selectors will have their hands full separating the talent after a hard fought battle where the players put their best foot forward.

Ben Peni from Team Fisher-Harris put the first four points on the board off the back of some outstanding forward momentum from the props. That was converted by Benaiah Ioelu, the beginning of what turned out to be a stellar performance from the Akarana representative.

It didn’t take long for Team Papali’i to add to the scoreboard with their captain Stanley Ionga, stand-out player from the 2018 National Youth Tournament and TDP, crossing the try line, which was then converted by Francis Manuleleua.

It was clear there was a lot of defensive work done alongside specialist coaches, Ben Gardiner and Nathan Cayless, with line speed looking impressive also.

Ben Peni’s strong efforts were evident, him identifying the holes in his opposition’s defensive line, and capitalising with his second try.

Another name that was on the lips of spectators was stand-off from Team Papali’i, Francis Manuleleua, his footwork turning heads as he tip-toed around anyone that tried to take him on.

Some players copped the wrath of Zion Maiu’u’s force as he ran over the defensive line to earn some much needed metres.

Both teams were guilty of several errors in their own 10 metre zones, and it was the team who took advantage of this that won out.

His boot was on form today, and so were Benaiah Ioelu’s try-scoring abilities, coming up successful for Team Fisher-Harris inching their lead ahead once again followed by a successful conversion from Esmonde Parangi.

A kick chase from Team Papali’I looked like more points were imminent but a fumble sealed their fate and they were back on the offensive – but, not for long.

A sniff of the try-line was all Francis Manuleleua needed scoring in the right-hand corner for Team Papali’i. His teammate Te Wano Ngamotu-Tahana got his slice if the pie too scoring before Manuleleua converted again closing the gap in the scoreline to 18-16.

However, one more converted try from Team Fisher-Harris sealed the fate of the game, Zion Maiu’u having the last say – the final score being 24-16 to team Fisher-Harris.

Team Lauiti’iti take the win at the Talent Development Programme 18s trial

Semisi Tapa was always going to be a strong contender in the 18s trial, and a try in the first few minutes only confirmed that.

Minutes later Elijah Tuhura joined the party, with another try for Lauiti’iti. Successfully converted the score read, 10-0.

Kicking would be a crucial part of the game given the talent going head-to-head in a tight clash – Brooklyn Herewini the MVP of the TDP last year making the conversion.

A penalty to Team Wiki, threw them the lifeline they needed, the blue team struggling to make it past the half way mark. But, the opportunity was missed with several rogue passes.

Team Wiki fired up though, Semisi Sikei scoring with Brooklyn Herewini making it two from two with the boot after his first conversion of Naufahu Whyte’s try earlier. However, a fumble on their try-line resulted in the ball going dead and perhaps, not the most desirable restart after their try, a line drop out to follow.

But, Team Lauiti’iti came up with an error too giving Team Wiki a sigh of relief.

It was only a matter of time before Tuki Simpkins would make it over the line, and he did just that  – successfully converted by Sione Moala.

Team Wiki fought and fought, and Sean Field finally got through the brick Lauiti’iti defence levelling the scoreboard, 16-16, with a kick to come – Tyrone Waipouri making it look like clock work pushing Team Wiki out in front for the first time, 18-16.

Team Wiki didn’t have time to kick themselves for the error on their try-line, with an absolutely outstanding 100 metre intercept try from Daeon Amituanai, the heat proving no obstacle for the boys in blue. That was converted by Tyrone Waipouri right before the second quarter break.

At the beginning of the final quarter was an error for Team Wiki, of course, well received by Team Lauiti’iti who were looking to get more points on the board. And, it was Paea Fotu who took one for the team and Caius Fa’atili who converted taking the score to 22-22. But Fotu wasn’t finished, minutes later he scored again and Fa’atili followed suit with the boot, the score reading 28-22.

The goalkicker Fa’atili, was also the one taking the first hit-ups being one of a few props in the game who also have a reliable boot.

Sean Field then hit back for Team Wiki with his second try of the day but the conversion bounced off the posts.

Konrad Tu’a worked his way around the field nicely in the halves but he also found himself scoring under the posts, the conversion being unsuccessful, 32-26.

Elijah Tuhura struck for his second try of the day also, right before the final whistle with a conversion from Quinnlan Tupou, the final score reading 38-26.

New Zealand Rugby League would like to send their condolences to the family and friends of Emile Vollenhoven who tragically passed away in Bolivia this week following a mountain biking accident.

Emile was a very talented and humble physio who was a valued member of the New Zealand Rugby League whanau, as the 2018 phsyio for the New Zealand 16s team.

Rest in peace Emile.

The final day of the Talent Development Programme in Cambridge sees the 16s and 18s battle out on the field, in hopes of catching the eyes of the NZ team selectors.

Both the 16s and 18s trials will be livestreamed on the New Zealand Rugby League Facebook page at 10am (16s) and 12pm (18s).

Team Fisher-Harris proved too good for Team Papali’i at the final hooter of the 16s trial, final score reading 24-16.

16s selectors will have their hands full separating the talent after a hard fought battle where the players put their best foot forward.

Ben Peni from Team Fisher-Harris put the first four points on the board off the back of some outstanding forward momentum from the props. That was converted by Benaiah Ioelu, the beginning of what turned out to be a stellar performance from the Akarana representative.

It didn’t take long for Team Papali’i to add to the scoreboard with their captain Stanley Ionga, stand-out player from the 2018 National Youth Tournament and TDP, crossing the try line, which was then converted by Francis Manuleleua.

It was clear there was a lot of defensive work done alongside specialist coaches, Ben Gardiner and Nathan Cayless, with line speed looking impressive also.

Ben Peni’s strong efforts were evident, him identifying the holes in his opposition’s defensive line, and capitalising with his second try.

Another name that was on the lips of spectators was stand-off from Team Papali’i, Francis Manuleleua, his footwork turning heads as he tip-toed around anyone that tried to take him on.

Some players copped the wrath of Zion Maiu’u’s force as he ran over the defensive line to earn some much needed metres.

Both teams were guilty of several errors in their own 10 metre zones, and it was the team who took advantage of this that won out.

His boot was on form today, and so were Benaiah Ioelu’s try-scoring abilities, coming up successful for Team Fisher-Harris inching their lead ahead once again followed by a successful conversion from Esmonde Parangi.

A kick chase from Team Papali’I looked like more points were imminent but a fumble sealed their fate and they were back on the offensive – but, not for long.

A sniff of the try-line was all Francis Manuleleua needed scoring in the right-hand corner for Team Papali’i. His teammate Te Wano Ngamotu-Tahana got his slice if the pie too scoring before Manuleleua converted again closing the gap in the scoreline to 18-16.

However, one more converted try from Team Fisher-Harris sealed the fate of the game, Zion Maiu’u having the last say – the final score being 24-16 to team Fisher-Harris.

Team lists for the 16s teams, Team Papali’i and Team Fisher-Harris are below:

16s – Fisher-Harris – 10am

Ali LEIATAUA
Salesi ATAATA
Faitiauma MOEAHU-LEOTA
Uriah TULI (C)
Kavan THOMPSON-CAMPBELL
Benaiah IOELU
Nikau WAIKATO
Arama KITE
Ethan FAITAUA
Ben PENI
Carlos TARAWHITI
Paaua PAPUNI-ABBOTT
Tavita TAFEA
Esmonde PARANGI
Jack CAMPBELL
Zion MAIU’U
Sione LATOA VAIHU
Sione FOTUAIKA
Portman PAUL

16s – Team Papali’i – 10am

Poto AVAKI
Unaloto UASI
Filipo WHITEHOUSE-OPETAIA TOVIO
Nathaniel CAMA
Tea-Rani WOODMAN TUHORO
Francis MANULELEUA
Cassius CAMA
Pita WILSON
(C) Stanley IONGA
Felix FA’ATILI
Heneli LUANI
Nathaniel TANGIMATAITI
Manaia NGATAKI-MATTHEWS
Tome POONA
Demitric SIFAKULA
Te Wano NGAMOTU-TAHANA
Tuhokairangi MILLER
Jaedon WELLINGTON
Joshua WILLIAMS

Team Lauiti’iti take the win at the Talent Development Programme 18s trial

Semisi Tapa was always going to be a strong contender in the 18s trial, and a try in the first few minutes only confirmed that.

Minutes later Elijah Tuhura joined the party, with another try for Lauiti’iti. Successfully converted the score read, 10-0.

Kicking would be a crucial part of the game given the talent going head-to-head in a tight clash – Brooklyn Herewini the MVP of the TDP last year making the conversion.

A penalty to Team Wiki, threw them the lifeline they needed, the blue team struggling to make it past the half way mark. But, the opportunity was missed with several rogue passes.

Team Wiki fired up though, Semisi Sikei scoring with Brooklyn Herewini making it two from two with the boot after his first conversion of Naufahu Whyte’s try earlier. However, a fumble on their try-line resulted in the ball going dead and perhaps, not the most desirable restart after their try, a line drop out to follow.

But, Team Lauiti’iti came up with an error too giving Team Wiki a sigh of relief.

It was only a matter of time before Tuki Simpkins would make it over the line, and he did just that  – successfully converted by Sione Moala.

Team Wiki fought and fought, and Sean Field finally got through the brick Lauiti’iti defence levelling the scoreboard, 16-16, with a kick to come – Tyrone Waipouri making it look like clock work pushing Team Wiki out in front for the first time, 18-16.

Team Wiki didn’t have time to kick themselves for the error on their try-line, with an absolutely outstanding 100 metre intercept try from Daeon Amituanai, the heat proving no obstacle for the boys in blue. That was converted by Tyrone Waipouri right before the second quarter break.

At the beginning of the final quarter was an error for Team Wiki, of course, well received by Team Lauiti’iti who were looking to get more points on the board. And, it was Paea Fotu who took one for the team and Caius Fa’atili who converted taking the score to 22-22. But Fotu wasn’t finished, minutes later he scored again and Fa’atili followed suit with the boot, the score reading 28-22.

The goalkicker Fa’atili, was also the one taking the first hit-ups being one of a few props in the game who also have a reliable boot.

Sean Field then hit back for Team Wiki with his second try of the day but the conversion bounced off the posts.

Konrad Tu’a worked his way around the field nicely in the halves but he also found himself scoring under the posts, the conversion being unsuccessful, 32-26.

Elijah Tuhura struck for his second try of the day also, right before the final whistle with a conversion from Quinnlan Tupou, the final score reading 38-26.

18s – Team Wiki – 12pm 

Moala GRAHAM-TAUFA
Daeon AMITUANAI
Naufahu WHYTE
Maui CARROLL
Soakai TAUFA
Tyrone WAIPOURI
Brooklyn HEREWINI
Te Oranga HAIKA
Dallas McEWAN
Otukinekina KEPU
Semisi SIKEI
Peesi Vailingi Pasi KEPU
Caleb PESE (C)
Sean FIELD
Jordan COLEMAN
Tyson CHASE
Levi PASCOE
Maui WALLACE
Taniela OTUKOLO

18s – Team Lauititi – 12pm 

William FAKATOUMAFI
Lani GRAHAM-TAUFA
Paea FOTU
Eteru ROPETI
Albert TALAKAI
Konrad TU’UA
Sione MOALA
Jyris GLAMUZINA
(C) Temple KALEPO
Caius FA’ATILI
TJ DEVERY
Matthew PALU
Elijah TUHURA
Semisi TAPA
Quinnlan TUPOU
Josiah KARAPANI
Thomas McKENZIE
Tukimihia SIMPKIN
Totive Junior TUILEISU

If you’re a young player that’s ever dreamed of ‘making it’ as a professional rugby league player, St Peter’s School in Cambridge was the place to be today.

The best 16s and 18s players in the country were lucky enough to be coached by Kiwis Assistant Coaches Ben Gardiner and Nathan Cayless in a series of field sessions on day two, in preparation for the final day of trials on Friday. Hookers and halves started their day with a video analysis session run by Ben Gardiner. There, they were challenged, questioned and tested on the role of a half and hooker, and their key duties within a game scenario were established.

That information was then put into practice on the field, as Gardiner and Cayless took the players through a number of skills and drills to hone their technique in their position of choice.

After the mahi was done out in the sun, players heard from Brisbane Broncos Game Development Manager, Paul Dyer, and Elite Player Development Manager, Simon Scanlan, about personal brand and how it can help or harm their careers. Former Kiwi, Paul Whatuira then spoke to the players about mental health and the way he navigated mental illness throughout his journey in professional rugby league.

The rest of the day was dedicated to preparations for trials on Friday. 18s players will be split into two teams, Team Wiki and Team Lauititi and 16s players, Team Fisher-Harris and Team Papali’i, as they take each other on, in attempts to impress NZ 16s and 18s selectors.

Final Day Trials – Friday, 25 January 2019

16s Trial – 10am

18s Trial – 12pm

Day one of the NZRL National Talent Development Programme saw the best 80 youngsters in New Zealand arrive at St Peter’s School in Cambridge ready to find out exactly what it takes to make it as a professional footy player, both on and off the field.

Following a welcome and briefing from NZRL National Talent Manager, David McMeeken, Kiwi #692 Jerry Seuseu took the New Zealand 16s and 18s hopefuls through the NRL Careerwise workshop which encourages players to plan for life after rugby league. Whether it’s the trades or studying at University that is most appealing, the key message was ‘if you fail to prepare, you prepare to fail.’

Kiwi #783 Ben Henry also educated the players about the seriousness of concussion and how to deal with concussion if either themselves or their teammates receive a head knock on the field.

The players were then able to get into their on-field game tactics with coaches, before taking to the field in their first training session of the camp. It was clear they were trying to put their best foot forward knowing their work ethic, attitude and performance would be on display for the selectors of the New Zealand 16s and 18s teams.

After dinner and a debrief, players rest up in preparation for tomorrow’s specialist coaching sessions where Kiwis Assistant Coaches Ben Gardiner and Nathan Cayless, as well as Paul Dyer and Greg Boulous will take them through their paces.  There will be a specific focus on developing halves and hookers while enhancing their attack and defence skill sets.

Check out some of the action from trials day of the Talent Development Programme #TDP2019 #thekiwiway

Posted by New Zealand Rugby League (NZRL) on Tuesday, 22 January 2019

The 2019 New Zealand Rugby League (NZRL) season kicks off tomorrow with the 16s and 18s Talent Development Programme (TDP) at St. Peters College in Cambridge.

The TDP camp brings together the most talented 16s (16-years-old or under) and 18s (18-years-old or under) age-group rugby league players from around New Zealand, as they work towards a professional career, while also keeping them in New Zealand playing in local competitions longer.

This year’s TDP consists of a three-day camp during the January school holidays which aims to enhance the development of players and management staff in attendance, through a series of coaching sessions and well-being seminars that prepare the players to showcase their skills in a trial on the final day (Friday, 25 January). One of the objectives for this camp is to ensure the players are better prepared for the rigours of the NRL, not only on the field, but in their educational and career aspirations.

The TDP will provide those who dream of playing in the NRL and for the Kiwis, with resources and tools that encourage players to develop in New Zealand through rugby league, and in their academic studies with the support of their families and friends.

With specialist coaches coming into the camp including Kiwis Assistant Coaches Ben Gardiner and Nathan Cayless, Paul Dyer and Greg Boulous, the camp will have a specific focus on developing halves and hookers as well as coaching and management. These coaches will also assist the up and coming players in enhancing their attack and defence skill sets.

Trials on the final day (Friday 25 January) will assist in selecting the 2019 New Zealand Resident 16s and 18s teams.

NZRL TALENT DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME OUTLINE

Wednesday 23 – Friday 25 January 2019 (Three-day camp)

St. Peters College, Cambridge

Note: This is a closed camp between Wednesday 23 and Thursday 24 January however, the trial day will be open to all and is free of charge. Details below:

Trial Day Schedule: Friday 25 January 2019

10.00am – 16s Trial Commences

11.45am – 18s Trial Commences

 

2019 TDP 16s players

Akarana: Paaua Papuni-Abbott; Benaiah Ioelu; Tevita Tafea; Pita Wilson, Zyon Maiu’u; Counties Manukau: Ali Leiataua; Kavan Thompson-Campbell; Francis Manuleleua; Ben Peni; Carlos Tarawhiti; Salesi Ataata; Mid Central: Arama Kite; Tuhokairangi Miller; Fatiauma Moeahu-Leota; Northland: Esmonde Parangi, Tea-Rani Woodman Tuhoro; Southern: Felix Fa’atili; Jaedon Wellington; Jack Campbell; Uriah Tuli; Nikau Waikato; Unafato Uasi; Ethan Faitaua; Auckland Vulcans: Nathaniel Cama; Filipo Whitehouse-Opetaia Tovio; Nathaniel Tangimataiti; Stanley Iongi; Heneli Luani; Michael Angelo Taufau; Sione Fotuaika; Sione Latoa Vaihu; Demitric Sifakula; Upper Central: Tome Poona; Cassius Cowley; Te Wano Ngamotu-Tahana; Manaia Ngataki-Matthews; Wellington: Poto Akavi; Joshua Williams

 

2019 TDP 18s players

Akarana: Caleb Pese; Jyris Glamuzina; Lani Graham-Taufa; Matthew Palu; Moala Graham-Taufa; Luani Tavake Naufahu Whyte; Temple Kalepo; Tj Devery; Totive Junior Tuileisu; Counties Manukau: Albert Talakai; Eteru Ropati; Feao Tongia; Josiah Karapani; Otukinekina Kepu; Paea Fotu; Semisi Sikei; Simisi Tapa; Sione Moala; Soakai Taufa; Tyrone Waipouri; William Fakatoumafi; Quinnlan Tupou; Peesi Vailangi Pasi Kepu; Mid Central: Brooklyn Herewini; Daeon Amituanai; Tyson Chase; Southern: Caius Fa’atili; Elijah Tuhura; Jordan Coleman; Levi Pascoe; Thomas McKenzie; Auckland Vulcans: Konrad Tu’ua; Upper Central: Sean Field; Tukimihia Simpkins; Maui Carroll; Wellington: Dallas Mcewan; Maui Wallace

Amongst those sports stars recognised in the New Year’s honours list was women’s rugby league legend Luisa Avaiki.

Avaiki has been involved in rugby league for more than three decades, dating back to when she first played for the Kiwi Ferns in 1995. She’s lifted the Women’s Rugby League World Cup three times (2000, 2003, 2008), two of them as captain and she continues to inspire the next generation of wahine toa to reach such heights as she did.

She went on to hold development and welfare roles at the Melbourne Storm and is currently the Women’s Wellbeing and Development Manager at New Zealand Rugby League, also coaching the women’s Warriors team in the WNRL.

“I was shocked but grateful,” Avaiki said. “I felt honoured because I have been in the game for a long time, and you go about doing your work because you’re passionate about it.

“I’m grateful I can still be a part of this game and help give back and contribute.”

New Zealand's Favourite Sporting Moment finalists for 56th ISPS Handa Halberg Awards

Nine sporting highlights from 2018 have been shortlisted for New Zealand’s Favourite Sporting Moment – the only category voted for by the public at the 56th ISPS Handa Halberg Awards. For info on how to vote and to be in to win a trip to the #56thISPSHandaHalbergAwards go to https://www.halbergawards.co.nz/favourite-sporting-moment/

Posted by ISPS Handa Halberg Awards on Monday, 14 January 2019

This is your chance to have your say on the sporting moment that excited you the most in 2018. The winner of the Favourite Sporting Moment of the Year will be announced at the 56th ISPS Handa Halberg Awards, televised live on SKY SPORT on Thursday 21 February 2019.

The full list of New Zealand’s Favourite Sporting Moment of the Year finalists are:

  1. Nico Porteous and Zoi Sadowski-Synnott medaling at the Olympic Winter Games within two hours of each other (Pyeongchang)
  2. David Liti breaking a Commonwealth record and winning gold in the men’s 105kg+ weightlifting division at the Commonwealth Games (Gold Coast)
  3. Kelly Brazier scoring a long range solo try in extra time to secure gold for the Black Ferns Sevens against Australia at the Commonwealth Games (Gold Coast)
  4. Vantage Black Sticks Women penalty shootout over Olympic champions England in semifinal at the Commonwealth Games (Gold Coast)
  5. Amelia Kerr blasting a record breaking 232 not out against Ireland for the White Ferns, achieving the highest score in women’s ODIs (Dublin)
  6. Roger Tuivasa-Sheck receiving an impromptu haka after winning the Dally M Player of the Year (Sydney)
  7. Auckland Rugby winning the Mitre 10 Cup Premiership final after a dramatic finish in extra time against Canterbury (Auckland)
  8. Black Caps winning the first test against Pakistan by four runs (Abu Dhabi)
  9. Anna Leat’s successful penalty shootout against Japan, leading New Zealand into the semifinal of the Fifa Under-17 Women’s World Cup (New Zealand vs Japan, Uruguay)

How to vote:

Voting is now open for the Sporting Moment of the Year award.  You can vote once a day from now until 9.00pm on Thursday 21 February 2019, vote either online or by text.

1.            Online 

Vote at www.sportingmoments.co.nz

2.            TXT

Text your Sporting Moment’s unique code to 556 (standard txt charges apply):

  1. Txt SM1 to 556 to vote for Nico Porteous and Zoi Sadowski-Synnott
  2. Txt SM2 to 556 to vote for David Liti
  3. Txt SM3 to 556 to vote for Kelly Brazier
  4. Txt SM4 to 556 to vote for Vantage Black Sticks Womens Team
  5. Txt SM5 to 556 to vote for Amelia Kerr
  6. Txt SM6 to 556 to vote for Roger Tuivasa-Sheck
  7. Txt SM7 to 556 to vote for Auckland Rugby
  8. Txt SM8 to 556 to vote for Black Caps
  9. Txt SM9 to 556 to vote for Anna Leat

Everyone who votes for the Sporting Moment by 4 February 2019 goes in the draw to win a trip for two including flights and accommodation to the 56th ISPS Handa Halberg Awards at Spark Arena, Auckland on Thursday 21 February 2019.   Visit www.sportingmoments.co.nz to read the competition terms & conditions.

The Awards, held annually since 1963, are the brainchild of Olympic athletics champion Sir Murray Halberg (ONZ) to honour sporting excellence and as a major fundraiser for the Halberg Foundation – his charity which aims to enhance the lives of physically disabled young New Zealanders by enabling them to participate in sport and recreation.

The core work of Halberg Foundation includes a team of Advisers around the country who connect physically disabled young people to sport and recreation opportunities. The Halberg Advisers also deliver an inclusion training course on adapting physical activity and assist clubs, schools and organisations to provide inclusive events and programmes. The Foundation also hosts the Halberg Games – an annual national three-day sports competition for physically disabled young people. 

 

 

New Zealand Rugby League is saddened to hear of the passing of Kiwi #415 Reginald George Hart who played one Test for the Kiwis against France, a 23-2 win at Perpignan.

The West Coast representative passed away suddenly at Christchurch Hospital, on January 18, 2019, in his 84th year.

In addition to the Test match he played against France, Hart also took the field in black and white on seven occasions (Non-Test matches) against Oldham/Rochdale, Wakefield, Leigh, US Villeneuve, Basque XIII, French XIII and Provence during the Kiwis’ 1961-62 tour of Britain and France.

A Celebration of Reginald’s life was held in his family’s Chapel, 12 High Street, Rangiora, on Monday, January 21, at 1.00pm.

By David Beck – Bay of Plenty Times

When his rugby league career was cut short by an ACL injury in 2015, Bay of Plenty man Paki Parkinson was justifiably upset.

However, rather than sulk or feel sorry for himself, he found a way to stay as close to the action as possible – as a referee. He completed his level one refereeing course later that year and an eagerness to constantly learn and improve has seen him rise rapidly up the ranks.

This week his passion and dedication was recognised when he was named Match Official of the Year at the New Zealand Rugby League Awards.

Raised in Rotorua, Parkinson is a student of the game and first played for Ngongotaha, just as his father and grandfather did. He also spent time playing in Huntly, where he was born, before moving back to the Bay and playing for Otumoetai, for whom he was playing when he suffered his injury.

Since becoming a referee he has not looked back. He is a regular whistle-blower in the Bay of Plenty/Coastline Premier competition, has refereed in a range of national tournaments and in October was the main man in the transtasman women’s test match at Mt Smart Stadium.

Parkinson said he was surprised, but honoured and humbled to win the award.

“I’ve played league my whole life, it’s in the blood really. After the injury I was coaching my son’s league team at the Papamoa Bulldogs and I thought I’d give refereeing a go, just for the junior leagues.

“After that I was invited to referee at the national rangatahi tournament, which was in Hawera that year, and from there I got the bug.”

Paki Parkinson runs the sideline during the National Secondary Schools Rugby League finals day. Photo / Photosport NZ
Paki Parkinson runs the sideline during the National Secondary Schools Rugby League finals day. Photo / Photosport NZ

Being a referee allowed him to stay fit and give back to the game he loves.

“I also enjoy being able to give players better opportunities to get on the field and play.

“The highlight this year would definitely be the transtasman test, that was a major highlight. The Maori Tuakana finals are always a major for me as well, because it’s players you don’t normally get to referee at club level, they’re a lot higher up in New South Wales Cup and even NRL.”

Parkinson said before a game he focused on the job at hand and did not often suffer from nerves.

“You have to be confident in your own ability and game preparation is big for me. Going through scenarios and issues that might come up, that helps me be ready and not nervous.”

The 34-year-old said his ultimate goal was to referee in the NRL.

“Obviously any aspiring referee wants to be in the NRL, age would be a factor in my situation, but I just need to keep putting my hand up for opportunities and nailing them when I do get the chance,” he said.

The man who nominated Parkinson, Bay of Plenty Rugby League referees chairman Graeme Hill said his greatest strength was his constant desire to improve.

“Paki works extremely hard at what he does. He has transitioned from a player to a referee, he’s done that extremely well, and in a short space of time he has basically excelled at the craft. His work ethic and his man management skills are second to none.

“He will continually analyse and review his own performances every week, he’s always trying to learn, always trying to better himself. He made us aware as an association that he wanted to get to the top of refereeing in New Zealand and be able to do it from the Bay of Plenty.

“We’re all extremely proud, it’s quite humbling, I was happy to nominate him and get him in there,” Hill said.

Here’s what went on behind the scenes in England when the Kiwis had free time…

Jared Waerea-Hargreaves and Honey Hireme reign supreme at the 2018 New Zealand Rugby League Annual Awards announced on Sky Sport’s Kiwi League Show tonight.

Waerea-Hargreaves (Kiwi #755) had one of his best seasons in the black and white jersey, accumulating over 130 run metres for all four end-of-season Test matches in England, and proved crucial in the Kiwis historic 26-24 win over Australia.

Michael Maguire says: “As a senior player within the Kiwis camp, Jared put a lot of time into discussing the growth of the Kiwi team. He has immense passion towards where he wants to see the black and white jersey and this is a real quality of his,”

“Off the back of his brilliant season in club land, he was in a good position to play his best footy for the Kiwis and that’s exactly what he did. His experience has been invaluable in mentoring younger players to step up into international rugby league,” Maguire says.

The powerhouse prop capped off his 2018 NRL season with his second NRL premiership win, a title he was able to share with Kiwis teammate Joseph Manu (finalist for Kiwis Rookie of the Year).

In one of the biggest years to date for women’s rugby league, Honey Hireme was hard to go past when it came to crowning the Kiwi Ferns Player of the Year, an award she won back in 2012. As co-captain of the Kiwi Ferns alongside veteran teammate Laura Mariu, she crossed the ditch to play for the St George Illawarra Dragons in the inaugural NRL Women’s Premiership, an experience she says has benefitted her game.

“The addition of this year’s NRL competition was great for the women’s game. The fact that we could all come together in Kiwi Ferns camp following four weeks of competing in the elite space, was hugely beneficial when it came to pulling on the black and white jersey against the Jillaroos,”

“The more we can play at the top level, the better our game gets. I’m grateful for receiving this award but would also like to recognise the efforts of the other finalists (Kimiora Nati and Aieshaleigh Smalley) and our Kiwi Ferns teammates, my family for their undying support, management and coaching staff,” she says.

The Kiwis Rookie of the Year award was picked up by Kiwi #810 Ken Maumalo, a player who earnt his Kiwis call-up in June at Mile High Stadium before going on to play in all five 2018 Kiwis Test matches, scoring four tries. His impressive season with the Warriors and Kiwis attracted high praises from coach Michael Maguire and rightfully so, given he amassed 15 tackle breaks and 801 run metres over the three Tests he played against England.

“Both Ken and Jared are two players that are hungry for the Kiwis jersey to reach new heights and that’s pleasing,”

“It has been really enjoyable coaching Ken, the more he plays, the more he grows so I look forward to seeing what he does next year,” Maguire says.

Joining Maumalo in playing her first Test at international level, Onjeurlina Leiataua has been rewarded for her break out season with the Warriors women’s team, and the stellar part she played in the Kiwi Ferns narrow loss against the Jillaroos at Mt Smart Stadium this year. These achievements saw her pick up Kiwi Ferns Rookie of the Year.

Promising youngster, Isaiah Papali’i wins Junior Player of the Year for the second consecutive year, having been awarded Warriors Rookie of the Year and receiving his Kiwis debut in England after leading the Junior Kiwis in their match-up against the Junior Kangaroos in October.

This year’s award winners showcase players and match officials performing at the pinnacle of rugby league, as well as community representatives and volunteers who prove to be the backbone of grassroots rugby league in New Zealand.

New Zealand Rugby League wishes to congratulate the award winners from all 13 categories below:

Pirtek Female Volunteer – Karen Gibbons Karen Gibbons (Akarana, Auckland)

Pirtek Male Volunteer – Lawrence Erihe (Mid Central, Manawatu)

Grassroots Club of the Year – South Pacific Raiders (Southern, Otago)

Domestic Coach of the Year – Keith Hanley (Akarana, Auckland)

Match Official of the Year – Paki Parkinson (Upper Central, Bay of Plenty)

NZ 16s Player of the Year – Sione Moala (Counties Manukau, Auckland)

NZ 18s Player of the Year – Tyler Slade (NZ Warriors)

Domestic Premier Player of the Year – Francis Leger (Akarana, Auckland)

Kiwi Fern Rookie of the Year – Onjeurlina Leiataua (NZ Warriors)

Kiwis Rookie of the Year – Ken Maumalo (NZ Warriors)

Kiwis Fern Player of the Year – Honey Hireme (St George Illawarra Dragons)

Kiwis Player of the Year – Jared Waerea-Hargreaves (Sydney Roosters)

The 2019 New Zealand Rugby League (NZRL) season will kick-off in January with the 16s and 18s Talent Development Programme (TDP) at St. Peters College in Cambridge.

The TDP brings together the most talented 16s (16-years-old or under) and 18s (18-years-old or under) age-group rugby league players from around New Zealand, as they work towards a professional career, while also keeping them in New Zealand playing in local competitions longer.

In 2018, the TDP consisted of a 10-week programme with over 200 players from the age of 14 through to 18 participating. This saw 13 ‘satellites’ across the country centralised around four ‘hubs’.

With NZRL undergoing a number changes both structurally and internally, the organisation is now in a better position to strengthen the game nationally, reviewing how it operates to enhance the overall experience of rugby league for its people and wider communities.

Alongside these exciting changes taking place and the recent appointment of NZRL’s General Manager of High Performance, Motu Tony, the 2019 TDP has evolved into a revised programme.

Next year’s TDP will consist of a three-day camp during the January school holidays which aims to enhance the development of players and management staff in attendance, through a series of coaching sessions and well-being seminars that prepare the players to showcase their skills in a trial on the final day (Friday, 25 January). One of the objectives for this camp is to ensure the players are better prepared for the rigours of the NRL, not only on the field, but in their educational and career aspirations.

The TDP will provide those who dream of playing in the NRL and for the Kiwis, with resources and tools that encourage players to develop in New Zealand through rugby league, and in their academic studies with the support of their families and friends.

New Zealand is a natural breeding ground for talented league players with NRL clubs recruiting from across the country, now also with the inclusion of female players with the inaugural NRL Women’s competition. NZRL have therefore been granted funding from the NRL for the 2019 TDP continuing their support towards the development of player, management and match officials’ pathways in New Zealand.

In 2018 both the New Zealand Resident 16s and 18s teams completed successful campaigns. Both management teams established a great environment for the players which connected these individuals with the ‘kiwi way’.  Based on a review of the feedback from both the players and management in each of these teams, NZRL have offered the management of these teams a second year in their respective roles, creating continuity going into the TDP.

Trials on the final day will assist in selecting the 2019 New Zealand Resident 16s and 18s teams.

NZRL TALENT DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME OUTLINE

Wednesday 23 – Friday 25 January 2019 (Three-day camp)

St. Peters College, Cambridge

Note: This is a closed camp between Wednesday 23 and Thursday 24 January however, the trial day will be open to all and is free of charge. Details below:

Trial Day Schedule: Friday 25 January 2019

10.00am – 16s Trial Commences

11.45am – 18s Trial Commences

 

2019 TDP 16s players

Akarana: Paaua Papuni-Abbott; Benaiah Ioelu; Tevita Tafea; Pita Wilson; Counties Manukau: Ali Leiataua; Kavan Thompson-Campbell; Francis Manuleleua; Ben Peni; Carlos Tarawhiti; Salesi Ataata; Mid Central: Arama Kite; Tuhokairangi Miller; Fatiauma Moeahu-Leota; Northland: Esmonde Parangi; Southern: Felix Fa’atili; Jaedon Wellington; Jack Campbell; Uriah Tuli; Nikau Waikato; Unafato Uasi; Ethan Faitaua; Auckland Vulcans: Nathaniel Cama; Filipo Whitehouse-Opetaia Tovio; Nathaniel Tangimataiti; Stanley Iongi; Heneli Luani; Michael Angelo Taufau; Sione Fotuaika; Sione Latoa Vaihu; Demitric Sifakula; Upper Central: Tome Poona; Cassius Cowley; Te Wano Ngamotu-Tahana; Manaia Ngataki-Matthews; Wellington: Poto Akavi; Joshua Williams

 

Management 16s:

Head Coach: Bejay Hewitt (Akarana)

Assistant Coaches: Chris Langley (Upper Central), Eugene Davis (Upper Central), Archie Jacobs (Southern), Pete Butler (Mid Central)

Managers: Ben Vaipaata (Aorere College); Marty Brown (Akarana)

Trainers: Adam Jones (Southern); Haze Rewiti (Mid Central); Iripa Rangi (Nz Warriors); Sean Whitanga (Counties)

 

2019 TDP 18s players

Akarana: Caleb Pese; Jonah Palota-Kopa; Jyris Glamuzina; Lani Graham-Taufa; Matthew Palu; Moala Graham-Taufa; Luani Tavake Naufahu Whyte; Sefa Roache; Temple Kalepo; Tj Devery; Totive Junior Tuileisu; Counties Manukau: Albert Talakai; Eteru Ropati; Feao Tongia; Josiah Karapani; Otukinekina Kepu; Paea Fotu; Semisi Sikei; Simisi Tapa; Sione Moala; Soakai Taufa; Tyrone Waipouri; William Fakatoumafi; Quinnlan Tupou; Peesi Vailangi Pasi Kepu; Mid Central: Brooklyn Herewini; Daeon Amituanai; Tyson Chase; Southern: Caius Fa’atili; Elijah Tuhura; Jordan Coleman; Levi Pascoe; Auckland Vulcans: Konrad Tu’ua; Upper Central: Sean Field; Tukimihia Simpkins; Wellington: Dallas Mcewan; Maui Wallace

 

MANAGEMENT 18s:

Head Coach: Tusa Lafaele (Counties)

Assistant Coach: Cody Walker (Akarana), Daniel McEwan (Wellington), Phil Gordon (Akarana)

Managers: Junie Shelford (Northland); Tania Harris (Counties)

Trainers: Lee Paru (Southern); Jasen Mcarthy (NZ Warriors)

“My heart is black and white, it’s always been like that” – Quentin Pongia talks with us about his rugby league career.

"My heart is black and white, it's always been like that." Quentin Pongia talks with us about his rugby league career #TeIwiKiwi ??

Posted by New Zealand Kiwis on Sunday, 25 November 2018

He’s known to most as ‘The Mad Butcher,’ but what many may not know about Sir Peter Leitch, is just how much he has done for rugby league and the sport’s community in New Zealand.

It’s hard to remember a Kiwis Test match where Sir Peter Leitch wasn’t present and when it comes to Warriors games, he’s basically a walking billboard who pulls people from all walks of life into the game to get a taste of being a part of the rugby league whanau.

Many can recognise the unique ability rugby league has to unite and empower communities, and those people who make that possible very rarely want the accolades to show for their hard work. Sir Peter Leitch is one of those special people who inject rugby league with life and purpose but he is quick to point out that he “doesn’t do it for the awards.”

At the Kiwis reunion recently, NZRL Chairman Reon Edwards presented Sir Peter Leitch with a special recognition pounamu taonga to honour his tireless contributions to rugby league that dates back to the 1970s.

“Sir Peter has touched the lives of so many people within the NZRL community,”

“Whether it’s assisting league communities with fundraising or helping individuals who may not otherwise have the resources to reach their goals, he generously gives his time and money to support those in need without expecting anything in return and has done for many years,” Edwards says.

Leitch began his association with league through the Mangere East Hawks in Auckland during the 1970s before becoming involved with NZRL, the Kiwis and Warriors.

He was NZRL patron from 2011 to 2017, manager of the Kiwis’ successful 2005 Tri-Nations campaign and the Warriors have even retired the No. 19 jersey in his honour.

It’s safe to say his efforts go beyond the usual life membership criteria, his kind gestures purely done for the love of rugby league and its people.

“My newsletter (Mad Butcher’s Club weekly newsletter) has been going for almost 20 years now and just like everything I do, it’s for the game and the people within it,”

“I was humbled to receive the pounamu in front of the 2018 Kiwis team and a room full of Kiwis legends that have also given their lives to the game,” Leitch says.

His passion for rugby league is infectious and New Zealand Rugby League wishes to thank Sir Peter Leitch for all that he has done for the game of rugby league in New Zealand.

By Will Evans

John Coffey has documented the rich history of rugby league in Canterbury and New Zealand more extensively than any other person, but he has also become part of its fabric himself.

In addition to Coffey being named a Life Member of New Zealand Rugby League earlier in the year, he was also recognised last night at the New Zealand Sports Journalism Association Awards with an NZSJA Life Membership.

New Zealand’s most prominent rugby league journalist, historian and author, West Coast-born Coffey covered rugby league, cricket and other sports for The Press for 44 years (1963-2007).

He authored, among many other books and sporting biographies, the seminal work The Kiwis: 100 Years of International Rugby League (2007), which was part of a trio of tomes he and the late Bernie Wood painstakingly put together along with the histories of Maori Rugby League and Auckland Rugby League; New Zealand Rugby League Greats (1991); the brilliantly researched Strike! The Tour That Died of Shame (2012); Canterbury XIII: A Rugby League History (1987); and The Hard Yards: Rugby League in Canterbury 1912-2012 (2012).

A keen club rugby league player and cricketer who played in the 1971 CRL grand final for Marist, Coffey covered the 1974 Commonwealth Games and many Kiwis tours to Australia, and Great Britain and France, as well as grassroots footy during its Canterbury heyday. Coffey was bestowed with the Queen’s Service Order in 2012 for services to sports journalism and history, and still resides in Christchurch.

A long-time correspondent for iconic Australian magazine Rugby League Week, the esteem Coffey is held in beyond these shores was perfectly illustrated by the NRL inviting him to be on the voting panel for the recently revamped Hall of Fame this year.

Coffey has covered (and continues to, through his weekly contributions to the Mad Butcher’s Newsletter) rugby league with integrity, style, humour and passion that earned him scores of fans but also the respect and friendship of the players and coaches he wrote about.

His journalistic example should be held up as a beacon for young scribes to follow.

As a historian Coffey’s contribution cannot be understated. Without his immense dedication, as well as the efforts of the likes of Wood, Bud Lisle Carey Clements, and the NZRL Museum team, there would be cavernous gaps in our knowledge of the game’s narrative.

 

ABOUT NEW ZEALAND RUGBY LEAGUE:

Rugby league has played a significant part in New Zealand sport for over 100 years. Formed in 1910, New Zealand Rugby League (NZRL) is the governing body for the sport of rugby league in New Zealand. The NZRL catchment is divided into seven zones that service the grassroots needs of the game. These zones compete in the National Championship, as well as women’s, youth and schools’ competitions.

NZRL manages the Kiwis and Kiwi Ferns who are both currently ranked number two in the world. NZRL is not just about success on the field – it is also charged with caring for a community off-field, promoting the values of integrity, respect, leadership, courage and passion. The “more than just a game” philosophy has seen NZRL establish innovative social development programmes using rugby league to help communities improve their lives off the field.

PURPOSE OF THE ROLE

You will be the key driver in supporting the community / grassroots game through adopting a proactive can-do approach to assisting the Zones and Districts in the delivery of the game as well as ensuring regular communication from NZRL to the game on Community Programmes and initiatives which you will be responsible for developing and implementing.

You will develop resources and implement sustainable best practice processes with the objective of increasing overall participation and consumers of the game of rugby league in New Zealand as well as building strong relationships with the zones / district personnel to inform and maintain national alignment and consistency across all NZRL Community Programmes.

You will also be the primary contact within NZRL for the operational relationship with external funders and Government agencies as well as helping to secure funding from potential new funding partners for the Community Game.

KNOWLEDGE, EXPERIENCE AND CAPABILITIES

  • A fundamental understanding of Community Sport and ideally experience within Rugby League.
  • Outstanding relationship management skills and experience with diverse stakeholders.
  • Proven background with successfully managing internal and external stakeholder relationships that have been critical to the achievement of targets.
  • Understanding of community sport funding processes and developing programmes that can attract investment from external agencies is preferred.
  • Experience developing and delivering both strategic and operational plans.
  • A team player who can work in a collaborative and supportive manner.
  • Excellent project management and administrative competency
  • Willingness to take ownership and be accountable for results

This is an exciting opportunity to support the community / grassroots game and increase overall participation and consumers of rugby league in New Zealand.

Download Job Description

APPLICATION CLOSING DATE – Friday 14th December, 2018

Click here to apply 

Global Elite Sports (www.globalelitesports.com) have been contracted by New Zealand Rugby League to manage the recruitment process for this appointment. Please contact Richard Stenhouse – Managing Director (richard@globalelitesports.com) for more information or to submit your application here.

ABOUT NEW ZEALAND RUGBY LEAGUE

Rugby league has played a significant part in New Zealand sport for over 100 years. Formed in 1910, New Zealand Rugby League (NZRL) is the governing body for the sport of rugby league in New Zealand. The NZRL catchment is divided into seven zones that service the grassroots needs of the game. These zones compete in the National Championship, as well as women’s, youth and schools’ competitions.

NZRL manages the Kiwis and Kiwi Ferns who are both currently ranked number two in the world. NZRL is not just about success on the field – it is also charged with caring for a community off-field, promoting the values of integrity, respect, leadership, courage and passion. The “more than just a game” philosophy has seen NZRL establish innovative social development programmes using rugby league to help communities improve their lives off the field.

PURPOSE OF THE ROLE

The NZRL The Football Operations Manager will be responsible for managing day to day operations and logistics for all NZRL Competitions, Tournaments and Events to ensure they comply with the NZRL rules and regulations as well as ensuring they are delivered to the very highest standard.

This includes managing all Football aspects of events including coordinating various requirements (match management, match officials etc) as well as arranging all logistical aspects such as flights, transport, accommodation, venues, fields, pre & post-match requirements etc.

You will develop and maintain relationships with key external partners and providers, various venue staff, Zone / District liaisons, local authorities as well as working closely with appropriate Zone, Districts and Associates personnel to ensure all football activities, initiatives and KPI’s are constantly driven and are of the highest standard.

KNOWLEDGE, EXPERIENCE AND CAPABILITIES

  • A proven background in operations, logistics and / or event management.
  • Ability to develop strong working relationships with diverse groups of participants and stakeholders.
  • Be able to demonstrate innovative thinking, manage priorities and maintain performance under pressure.
  • Ability to work independently as well as influencing and leading others.
  • Relevant qualification or experience in sport development, project management, operations, logistics and / or business.
  • A Passion for Rugby League and growing the sport in New Zealand.
  • An understanding of the sports wider importance to New Zealand communities.

 

This is an exciting opportunity to develop, manage and deliver outstanding events and match day experiences for consumers of rugby league in New Zealand.

 

Download Job Description

APPLICATION CLOSING DATE – Friday 14th December, 2018

Click here to apply 

Upper Central Zone Rugby League is seeking to employ a Kiwisport WBOP Rugby League Development Officer for up to 20 hours per week for the period February – October 2018, based in the Tauranga area.

The successful applicant will be a self-starter who is passionate about rugby league, an effective communicator, computer literate with a high level of initiative, commitment with strong planning and organisational skills.

The role will be responsible for the delivery of programmes into targeted schools and clubs in the Sport Bay of Plenty geographical region.

You will also be involved with further promotion and development of the game in the Upper Central Zone region through the junior programmes already in place. Night and weekend availability is essential.

A job description is available on request.

Applications close at 12.00pm, Friday, 14th December.

Interviews will take place at Sport Bay of Plenty, Tauranga on Wednesday 19th December.

Please apply by sending a covering letter and CV to:

Mel Bennett

General Manager

Upper Central Zone Rugby League

Email: mel.b@nzrl.co.nz

NZ Kiwis skipper Dallin Watene-Zelezniak (Kiwi #794) is up against NRL Premiership winning forward, Jared Waerea-Hargreaves (Kiwi #755) and Kiwi #771 Kevin Proctor for the 2018 Kiwis Player of the Year Award.

Finalists have been selected in all 13 NZRL Awards categories, including Kiwi Ferns Player of the Year which will be hotly contested by Kiwi Ferns co-captain Honey Hireme, NRL Grand-Final Player of the Match Kimiora Nati and powerhouse prop Aieshaleigh Smalley.

Kiwis debutants Joseph Manu, Ken Maumalo and Dally M Rookie of the Year, Jamayne Isaako will face-off for the Kiwis Rookie of the Year award – all three having had outstanding seasons with their respective clubs and thriving in their Kiwis career debut seasons.

Roger Tuivasa-Sheck took home the top Kiwis award last year but the 2018 Dally M Award winner was out of contention for this year’s Kiwis end of season campaign in New Zealand and England due to injury.

Last year’s Junior Player of the Year, Isaiah Papali’i won the award as a 19-year-old and is still eligible this year following a stellar season with the Warriors and as captain of the Junior Kiwis. He faces challenges from the South Sydney Rabbitohs and Taranaki-born Mawene Hiroti, as well as Warriors youngster Joseph Vuna.

The Pirtek Volunteer of the Year awards also shine light on the incredible efforts of grassroots volunteers from around the country. These finalists have contributed to their clubs and communities in ways that are invaluable to the game of rugby league in New Zealand.

Award winners will be announced on 12 December on a special edition of Sky Sport’s Kiwi League Show at 7.30pm and NZRL’s website & social media channels.

Below is the full list of NZRL Awards finalists:

Kiwis Player of the Year 2018

Finalists:

  • Dallin Watene-Zelezniak (Penrith Panthers)
  • Kevin Proctor (Gold Coast Titans)
  • Jared Waerea-Hargreaves (Sydney Roosters)

 

Kiwi Ferns Player of the Year 2018

Finalists:

  • Honey Hireme (St George Illawarra Dragons)
  • Kimiora Nati (Brisbane Broncos)
  • Aieshaleigh Smalley (NZ Warriors)

Kiwis Rookie of the Year 2018

Finalists:

  • Joseph Manu (Sydney Roosters)
  • Ken Maumalo (NZ Warriors)
  • Jamayne Isaako (Brisbane Broncos)

Kiwi Ferns Rookie of the Year 2018

Finalists:

  • Onjeurlina Leiataua (NZ Warriors)
  • Masuisuimatama’alii Tauasa-Pauaraisa (NZ Warriors)

Junior Player of the Year 2018

Finalists:

  • Mawene Hiroti (South Sydney Rabbitohs)
  • Joseph Vuna (NZ Warriors)
  • Isaiah Papali’I (NZ Warriors)

Pirtek Female Volunteer of the Year 2018

Finalists:

Debbie Neylon-Kennedy (Southern, Canterbury)

Michelle Harding (Southern, Canterbury)

Hana Kakoi (Southern, Canterbury)

Denise Proctor (Northland, Nga Tama Toa)

Junie Shelford (Northland, Takahiwai)

Sariah Matautia (Counties Manukau, Auckland)

Agnes Koti (Counties Manukau, Auckland)

Karen Gibbons (Akarana, Auckland)

Rose Nahu (Upper Central, Bay of Plenty)

Ally Tamihere (Mid Central, Gisborne Tairawhiti)

 

 

Pirtek Male Volunteer of the Year 2018

Finalists:

David Field (Southern, Canterbury)

Tony Grenfell (Southern, Canterbury)

Chris Perriam (Southern, Southland)

Peter Kerridge (Southern, West Coast)

Josh Cleaver (Mid Central, Taranaki)

Lawrence Erihe (Mid Central, Manawatu)

Frank Proctor (Northland, Nga Tama Toa)

Nick Waihi (Northland, Marist Brothers)

Tim Tapaki (Counties Manukau, Auckland)

Stephen Purcell (Counties Manukau, Auckland)

Carl Gribble (Akarana, Auckland)

 

Grassroots Club of the Year 2018

Finalists:

Wairau Taniwha (Southern, Tasman)

Lonestar Cowboys (Southern, Southland)

South Pacific Raiders (Southern, Otago)

Rolleston Warriors (Southern, Canterbury)

Takahiwai Warriors (Northland)

Otahuhu Rugby League Club (Counties Manukau, Auckland)

Manurewa Rugby League Football & Sports Club Inc (Counties Manukau, Auckland)

 

Domestic Coach of the Year 2018

Finalists:

Rusty Matua (Counties Manukau, Auckland)

Tusa Lafaele (Counties Manukau, Auckland)

Keith Hanley (Akarana, Auckland)

 

Match Official of the Year 2018

Finalists:

Gary Smallridge (Southern, Canterbury)

Owen Harvey (Southern, Canterbury)

Chris McMillan (Counties Manukau, Auckland)

Paki Parkinson (Upper Central, Bay of Plenty)

 

NZ 16s Player of the Year 2018

Finalists:

Sione Moala (Counties Manukau, Auckland)

Quinnlan Tupou (Counties Manukau, Auckland)

Lani Graham-Taufa (Akarana, Auckland)

 

NZ 18s Player of the Year 2018

Finalists:

Kayal Iro (NZ Warriors)

Tyler Slade (NZ Warriors)

Mahuta Ngataki-Matthews (Upper Central, Waikato)

 

NZRL Premier Player of the Year 2018

Finalists:

Drew Radich (Counties Manukau, Auckland)

James Baxendale (Southern, Canterbury)

Francis Leger (Akarana, Auckland)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By Richard Becht, Vodafone Warriors

Auckland, New Zealand, November 28, 2018 – Vodafone Warriors CEO Cameron George today announced halfback Shaun Johnson has requested and been granted a release from the last year of his contract in 2019.

George said the release was effective immediately.

“Yesterday (head coach) Stephen Kearney, (recruitment manager) Peter O’Sullivan and I met with Shaun and his manager Peter Brown,” he said.

“During the meeting Shaun clearly demonstrated to us that he didn’t want to be at the club in 2019.

“While it’s disappointing it has come to this, we must acknowledge the contribution Shaun has made to the Vodafone Warriors. We’re proud of what he has achieved at the club and wish him the best for the future.”

 

Johnson finishes his Vodafone Warriors career with 917 points from 162 appearances.

The New Zealand Rugby League would like to thank the Southern Trust for its recent funding towards the roll out of the nationwide sideline behavior campaign, ‘Be a Good Sport’.

By supporting this campaign, the Southern Trust is helping NZRL to create positive rugby league experiences for players, parents and volunteers both on and off the field.

NZRL CEO Greg Peters “couldn’t thank the Southern Trust enough for their financial support.”

“With the financial backing of the Southern Trust, we are able to support rugby league clubs and venues throughout the country to enable an environment where everyone is able to enjoy just how great the game of rugby league can be,”

“We know our rugby league community is extremely passionate about the game, and campaigns such as ‘Be a Good Sport’, encourage supporters to harness their enthusiasm in a positive way that encourages young people to develop their skills and have fun,” Peters said.

This significant round of funding ensures rugby league venues throughout New Zealand are supplied with current branded equipment and resources such as vests and sandwich boards, increasing the visibility of messaging that supports smoke, alcohol and abuse free sidelines.

The education resources and workshops developed in 2018 have focused on creating conversations around the role adults play in the delivery of sport, through the use of the ‘Good Sports Spine’. These workshops have also been embedded into coaching and managers’ courses conducted throughout the country.

Securing this funding is a testament to the work that the recently departed NZRL Legacy Manager, Kirsty Sharp, has done in driving these community initiatives at various national tournaments and fixtures in New Zealand for which feedback has been positive.

To read more about the ‘Be a Good Sport’ campaign, click here.

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Every year NZRL recognises those who have gone above and beyond with awards for Volunteer of the Year and Grassroots Club plus awards for players, referees and coaches.

Complete your nomination form online to acknowledge someone you think has done an outstanding job for rugby league this year.

Roger Tuivasa-Sheck and Apii Nicholls picked up the top two Kiwis and Kiwi Ferns awards last year, while 76-year-old Hornby Panthers legend, Jack Newson and Northland’s Chantez Connor were recognised for their stand-out voluntary contributions to rugby league. Who will be this year’s award winners?

Want to add your two cents? Submit your nominations by clicking here.

For all other information including awards criteria click here.

Nominations close 5pm Wednesday, 21 November, 2018.

By Alicia Newton, nrl.com

 

New Zealand have avoided a series whitewash in dominating fashion with a crushing 34-0 victory over England in the third and final Test at Elland Road in Leeds on Sunday (Monday morning AEDT).

 

Kodi Nikorima was everywhere for the Kiwis to help guide the side to an 18-0 lead at half-time and the one-way traffic continued into the second with the record-breaking crowd of 32,186 silenced for most of the contest.

 

Despite conceding the series in the second Test, the Kiwis’ attitude was on song from the opening set on Remembrance Day and with England having three disallowed tries, New Zealand’s lead never looked under threat.

 

The early onslaught started in the fourth minute with a late offload from Jared Waerea-Hargreaves putting pressure on England’s defence for Ken Maumalo to step inside Jake Connor and Jonny Lomax to the line.

 

England were denied the chance to hit back through Golden Boot winner Tommy Makinson with John Bateman ruled to have obstructed Kevin Proctor in the lead-up.

 

New Zealand had a try of their own disallowed three minutes later with Jamayne Isaako getting a foot on the line in a try-scoring opportunity.

 

A third disallowed try – this time to England – continued the stop-start flow to the game but the Kiwis put an end to the disoriented period with Nikorima timing a pin-point pass for Isaac Liu to dive over next to the posts untouched.

 

The Kiwis’ dominance in the first half was sealed when Nikorima shrugged away from Chris Hill in the middle of the paddock to link with Shaun Johnson for an 18-point advantage at the break.

 

Any thoughts of a comeback were extinguished early by the Kiwis with Nikorima placing a cross-field kick for Maumalo to outleap Jermaine McGillvary for his second try of the afternoon.

 

England lost Jake Connor to a head knock in the process to compound a disappointing end to the series despite retaining the Baskerville Shield.

 

New Zealand’s ill-discipline has been a weakness under Michael Maguire this series and that notion continued despite the lop-sided result with Waerea-Hargreaves sin-binned in the second half for repeated offences.

 

England were next to be reduced to 12 with McGillvary binned for a professional foul and the Kiwis pounced with a further two tries.

 

Jesse Bromwich capped a solid return to the international game with a try under the sticks, before Joseph Tapine crashed over the line in near identical fashion.

 

Kiwis debutant Isaiah Papali’i got on the field in the 68th minute for an afternoon to remember with the Warriors forward converting Tapine’s try moments before the siren.

 

The crowd found their voices late in the game with the 2018 season coming to a close but the result ultimately put a halt to England’s recent run of success against the Kiwis.

 

Both sides were a part of a spine-tingling Remembrance Day service in the pre-game ceremony and came together linked arm-in-arm during the ode and minute silence to cap off a series that produced everything for the international game.

 

Nikorima was named man of the match while Makinson added the George Smith Medal for player of the series to his Golden Boot triumph.

Armistice Day commemorations are a poignant focus as the New Zealand Kiwis prepare for the third and final Test against England today.

Earlier this morning New Zealand Rugby League chairman Reon Edwards and CEO Greg Peters joined other Rugby League International Federation members and delegates at an Armistice Day service at the York Minster commemorating the centenary of the end of the First World War.

There will also be a strong focus on the 100th anniversary of Remembrance Day in the build-up to the third Test at Elland Road this afternoon.

Kiwi head coach Michael Maguire and England counterpart Wayne Bennett will lay a wreath during a pre-match commemoration while both teams will be wearing special jerseys bearing a poppy in recognition of the day.

The Rugby League International Federation Board has approved in principle a rolling calendar of matches for the next eight years. The calendar will see a mix of world events, regional events and bilateral tours starting in 2019. The meeting was held as a part of the RLIF Congress in York.

A highlight of the 2019 plan is the creation of the Oceania Cup featuring Australia, New Zealand and Tonga in one group and Samoa, Fiji and Papua New Guinea in the other group. The nations also agreed that the Great Britain Rugby League Lions will visit the Southern Hemisphere to face New Zealand, Tonga, Samoa, Fiji and Papua New Guinea subject to consultation with the major playing leagues and the players’ representatives.

There are ongoing discussions to ensure that the programme for the women’s game and for wheelchair rugby league are advanced at a similar rate to the men’s game.

The Board has also approved financial support for the Americas Championship and a new competition for nations in the Middle East and Africa, the MEA Championship. RLIF investment will be annual, commencing in 2019, underlining the strategic significance of and recent growth in these territories.

Australia will host the inaugural RLIF Nines World Cup in 2019 which will see teams from across the world gather to compete in this innovative and exciting form of the game. This will feature both men’s and women’s competitions.

The programme will be punctuated every four years with the World Cup and will include the repeat of the Oceania Cup in 2020 and 2022 which will mirror the European Championship in the Northern Hemisphere. With space created for the bilateral arrangement of games and tours by the individual member nations.

Chief Executive Nigel Wood has welcomed the outcome saying:

“The whole international rugby league world has looked to us to complete this important piece of work. The discussions this week have been extremely collaborative and positive.

“This is a complex process and if we can put all the pieces of the jig-saw into place we will have a very exciting programme.”

“There is some further consultation to be undertaken with leagues and playing groups together with some important commercial evaluations before we could make final announcements, however we are confident that we can complete these discussions before Christmas.”

New Zealand Rugby League CEO Greg Peters said:
“We are delighted to have the support of the RLIF and member nations for a significant calendar of rugby league events in New Zealand. This will be the first time in the history of the sport that this number of international games has been hosted in New Zealand. We still have work to do, however, but we are very encouraged by the commitment of all parties to work towards making this a reality.”

Sandis Tsaka, President of Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League, said: “It’s a great boost for us in Papua New Guinea to have a reliable calendar of games that we can promote to our fans, players and stakeholders.”

Todd Greenberg, CEO of the Australian Rugby League Commission, welcomed the collaboration shown in the discussions: “It was refreshing to see the way in which we were all able to work together, particularly the Pacific nations, to deliver the framework for this calendar.”

Ralph Rimmer, CEO of the Rugby Football League, was pleased with the opportunities provided by the calendar: “These are exciting times for the sport in general and particularly the chance we have to both take a Great Britain team to the Southern Hemisphere next year and then welcome the Kangaroos in 2020. There is still some discussion to complete on 2019 but everything looks to be moving in a positive direction.”

RLIF Southern Hemisphere General Manager Jeremy Edwards said: “This programme will give us all a framework that we can work with. The Oceania Cup gives the Pacific nations the ideal platform to continue the immense progress that they have made over the past few years.”

Head coach Michael Maguire has confirmed 20-year-old back rower Isaiah Papali’i will debut for the Kiwis in the third Test against England at Elland Road in Leeds on Remembrance Day on Sunday (3.15pm kick-off local time; 4.15am Monday NZT).

After initially indicating he would name his final line-up an hour and a half before kick-off, Maguire has revealed Papali’i will become Kiwi No 817 coming off the interchange in the New Zealanders’ final outing of the year.

Named the Vodafone Warriors’ 2018 NRL Rookie of the Year, Papali’i captained the Junior Kiwis against the Junior Kangaroos in Auckland last month. He comes onto a bench which also includes utility forward Kenny Bromwich, front rower Leeson Ah Mau and second rower Joseph Tapine. Tapine returns to the line-up after being used in the first Test in Hull while Marty Taupau and James Fisher-Harris make way.

The other change to the line-up sees Jamayne Isaako re-introduced on the right wing to replace the experienced Jordan Rapana, who has returned to Australia after being ruled out of the tour with a shoulder injury. Isaako, the Dally M NRL Rookie of the Year, will make his second Test appearance after his debut against England in Denver.

Maguire has included three players in his extended squad with Jahrome Hughes and Fisher-Harris joined by Vodafone Warriors utility back Gerard Beale, whose last Test was in the Kiwis’ opening match of the 2017 Rugby League World Cup against Toa Samoa.

The 32-year-old Adam Blair will edge closer to becoming just the eighth player in history to play 50 or more Tests when he makes his 48th appearance on Sunday.

The build-up to the Test will centre on a Remembrance Day commemoration marking the centenary of the end of the First World War.

 

NEW ZEALAND KIWIS v ENGLAND

 

3.15pm, Sunday, November 11, 2018

Elland Road, Leeds

Referee: Gerard Sutton (Australia)

 

NEW ZEALAND KIWIS

 

1 DALLIN WATENE-ZELEZNIAK (Penrith Panthers) captain

2 KEN MAUMALO (Vodafone Warriors)

3 ESAN MARSTERS (Wests Tigers)

4 JOSEPH MANU (Sydney Roosters)

5 JAMAYNE ISAAKO (Brisbane Broncos)

6 SHAUN JOHNSON (Vodafone Warriors)

7 KODI NIKORIMA (Brisbane Broncos)

8 JESSE BROMWICH (Melbourne Storm)

9 BRANDON SMITH (Melbourne Storm)

10 JARED WAEREA-HARGREAVES (Sydney Roosters)

11 KEVIN PROCTOR (Gold Coast Titans)

12 ISAAC LIU (Sydney Roosters)

13 ADAM BLAIR (Vodafone Warriors)

Interchange:

14 KENNY BROMWICH (Melbourne Storm)

15 LEESON AH MAU (St George Illawarra Dragons)

16 ISAIAH PAPALI’I (Vodafone Warriors)

17 JOSEPH TAPINE (Canberra Raiders)

 

Extended squad:

18 JAHROME HUGHES (Melbourne Storm)

19 JAMES FISHER-HARRIS (Penrith Panthers)

20 GERARD BEALE (Vodafone Warriors)

 

HEAD COACH | MICHAEL MAGUIRE

 

 

NEW ZEALAND KIWIS | END OF SEASON CAMPAIGN

(includes first Test v England, KCOM Stadium, Hull)

 

Player Club Kiwi No Tests for NZ
LEESON AH MAU St George Illawarra Dragons 812 4
GERARD BEALE Vodafone Warriors 767 11
ADAM BLAIR Vodafone Warriors 732 47
JESSE BROMWICH Melbourne Storm 775 27
KENNEATH BROMWICH Melbourne Storm 796 6
JAMES FISHER-HARRIS Penrith Panthers 801 5
PETA HIKU Vodafone Warriors 781 11
JAHROME HUGHES Melbourne Storm
JAMAYNE ISAAKO Brisbane Broncos 808 1
SHAUN JOHNSON Vodafone Warriors 774 28
ISAAC LIU Sydney Roosters 805 6
JOSEPH MANU Sydney Roosters 815 3
ESAN MARSTERS Wests Tigers 809 4
KEN MAUMALO Vodafone Warriors 810 4
KODI NIKORIMA Brisbane Broncos 790 12
AGNATIUS PAASI Vodafone Warriors
ISAIAH PAPALI’I Vodafone Warriors
KEVIN PROCTOR Gold Coast Titans 771 20
JORDAN RAPANA Canberra Raiders 798 11
BRANDON SMITH Melbourne Storm 816 3
JOSEPH TAPINE Canberra Raiders 800 9
MARTIN TAUPAU Manly Warringah Sea Eagles 785 24
JARED WAEREA-HARGREAVES Sydney Roosters 755 27
DALLIN WATENE-ZELEZNIAK Penrith Panthers 794 10

 

 

PROGRAMME

Saturday, October 13 | v Australia, Mount Smart Stadium, Auckland | Won 26-24

Saturday, October 27 | v England, KCOM Stadium, Hull | Lost 16-18

Sunday, November 4 | v England, Anfield, Liverpool | Lost 14-20

Saturday, November 11 | v England, Elland Road, Leeds

 

Former Kiwi captain Ruben Wiki was among seven rugby league greats presented with golden caps at the Rugby League International Federation’s Golden Boot awards dinner in Leeds last night.

The presentation of golden caps for players who appeared in 50 or more Tests was a feature of the night which saw England winger Tommy Makinson win the men’s Golden Boot while Australian Jillaroos centre Isabelle Kelly was awarded the inaugural women’s Golden Boot.

When rugby league legend Wiki retired from international football in 2006, he had played a world record 55 Tests, a mark which stood until Kangaroos captain Darren Lockyer (59) overtook him. Cameron Smith ended his representative career this year with a total of 56 Tests.

Wiki’s golden cap was collected on his behalf by his former Kiwi team-mate Motu Tony, who is in England with the touring New Zealand team.

Players awarded golden caps were:

Jim Sullivan (1921-1934) 54 internationals for Wales, England and Great Britain

Mick Sullivan (1954-1962) 50 internationals for England and Great Britain

Ruben Wiki (1994-2006) 55 internationals for New Zealand

Adrian Morley (1996-2012) 53 internationals for England and Great Britain

Darren Lockyer (1997-2011) 59 internationals for Australia

Petero Civoniceva (2001-2014) 51 internationals for Australia and Fiji

Cameron Smith (2006-2017) 56 internationals for Australia

As well as Tony, the Kiwis’ representatives at last night’s dinner included Kiwi head coach Michael Maguire, captain Dallin Watene-Zelezniak – who was on the short list of four for the Golden Boot – former Kiwi Daryl Halligan, New Zealand Rugby League chairman Reon Edwards and CEO Greg Peters.

Watene-Zelezniak has had an outstanding year at international level, performing impressively against England in Denver, in the one-off Test against Australia last month and in each of the first two matches of the current series against England.

Kiwi Ferns centre Honey Hireme was on the short list for the women’s Golden Boot.

Three greats were inducted into England’s Rugby League Hall of Fame – Wakefield’s Derek Turner, Hull’s Johnny Whiteley and Andy Gregory, whose club career included stints with Widnes, Warrington and Wigan.

As well as Morley, Whiteley, Gregory the dinner at the Centerary Pavilion was attended by a cast of rugby league greats, among them the incomparable Billy Boston – now 84 – Garry Schofield, Mal Reilly and Neil Fox while there was also a table including former Great Britain internationals George Nicholls, Jimmy Thompson, Brian Lockwood, Alan Smith and Keith Bridges.

 

The New Zealand Rugby League is saddened to hear that former NZRL CEO Michael ‘Mike’ Knowles has passed away.

Mike became CEO under George Rainey’s chairmanship replacing Ross Williams the previous incumbent, and continuing on whilst  Trevor Maxwell and Graham Carden were the NZRL chairmen.

Knowles was well known for his impressive efficiency leading New Zealand Rugby League in the 80s and 90s era.

After he moved to Taupo, he retained his extreme interest in rugby league affairs, attending Ex-Kiwis annual meetings following his tenure at the organisation having largely contributed to the landscape of rugby league in New Zealand. Mike was a well-respected figure in the sport’s community and we thank him for that he has done to better the game of rugby league.

The funeral will be in Taupo on Thursday.

The Rugby League International Federation is proud to announce the short lists for the 2018 Golden Boot. The award recognises the most outstanding performances in both men’s and women’s international matches and covers all fully sanctioned international games played from the final of RLWC2017 to the England v New Zealand game played today.

The first ever Women’s Golden Boot will go to one of five nominees:

Ali Brigginshaw (Australia)
Brittany Breayley (Australia)
Georgia Roche (England)
Honey Hireme (New Zealand)
Isabelle Kelly (Australia)

The Men’s Award will be selected from the short list of 4, which was narrowed down from a long list of 10, by the panel drawn from rugby league media in both the northern and southern hemisperes.

Dallin Watene-Zelezniak (New Zealand)
Elliott Whitehead (England)
James Tedesco (Australia)
Tommy Makinson (England)

The winner will be announced at the Hall of Fame & RLIF Golden Boot Dinner which will be held at Elland Road, Leeds on Wednesday November 7th.

By Alicia Newton, nrl.com reporter on tour in England

England have fought back from an eight-point deficit in the second half to score three tries and seal the series win with a 20-14 victory over the Kiwis in the second Test at Anfield on Sunday.

Tommy Makinson crossed for a hat-trick of tries in the dramatic win after the Kiwis jumped out to a 14-6 advantage midway through the second half.

Makinson broke the 14-14 deadlock with six minutes left on the clock with a sharp and weaving effort coming back inside the Kiwis’ ruck to charge over the line, using fingertip control to ground the ball, which was reviewed by the video referee.

Two errors midway through the second half swung the momentum for England with opposite Makinson’s second try and Jake Connor’s four-pointer ensuring the game was set up for a grandstand finish with a strong effort down the short side.

The Kiwis will rue their inability to score points in the opening half with the scores level at 6-6 at the break. The visitors had three disallowed tries and had a weight of possession and territory behind them.

The tone of the clash was set from the start as both teams came together in the early stages after Jesse Bromwich was penalised for a tackle on Sam Tomkins. enabling Connor to put England 2-0 ahead.

When the game eventually got into a groove, the Kiwis looked the strongest early to dominate in most areas but failed to convert enough opportunities into points after their first try.

The visitors made light work of England’s defence in the eighth minute with a back-line movement finished off by Watene-Zelezniak, who split Tomkins and Oliver Gildart on the left edge.

New Zealand went close to adding to their four-point advantage minutes later with Jordan Rapana denied twice through some desperate England defence.

England toiled and struck before the interval in similar fashion to last week’s clash in Hull with Makinson finishing off a slick cut-out pass from George Williams for his first of the afternoon.

Kiwi back rower Kevin Proctor was next to be denied by some brutal England defence as three disallowed tries failed to offer a true reflection of the dominance Michael Maguire’s side generated in the opening half.

The Kiwis skipped ahead with a converted try and penalty goal nine minutes into the second half.

Kodi Nikorima linked with Watene-Zelezniak to split the defence and send Ken Maumalo over in the corner, before an offside call on the line enabled the Kiwis an additional two points.

But England rallied, as they did in Hull with the Anfield crowd sniffing a comeback.

They went delirious as a Tomkins kick was fumbled in-goal but the Kiwis held their nerve to deny a charging Tom Burgess, who spilled the ball over the line.

Another error allowed England to level the scores with a short-side play from Canberra pair Hodgson and Whitehead sending Connor over in the corner.

The comeback was complete late, handing England a 2-0 series win and the Baskerville Shield.

Adam Blair will move to outright second on the Kiwis’ all-time appearances list when he starts at loose forward in today’s second Test against England at Anfield in Liverpool (2.30pm kick-off local time; 3.30am NZT).

After missing last week’s first Test through injury, the 32-year-old Vodafone Warriors forward comes into the starting side with James Fisher-Harris switched to the interchange bench.

Joseph Tapine, who replaced Blair in Hull, is 19th man.

This will be Blair’s 47th Test, moving him one ahead of Stacey Jones and Gary Freeman with only Ruben Wiki ahead on 55 Test appearances.

Other than Blair coming in for Fisher-Harris, the starting line-up is unchanged from the one used against the Kangaroos in Auckland on October 13 and in the first Test against England last week.

 

NEW ZEALAND KIWIS v ENGLAND

 

2.30pm, Sunday, November 4, 2018

Anfield, Liverpool

 

NEW ZEALAND KIWIS

 

1 DALLIN WATENE-ZELEZNIAK (Penrith Panthers) captain

2 KEN MAUMALO (Vodafone Warriors)

3 ESAN MARSTERS (Wests Tigers)

4 JOSEPH MANU (Sydney Roosters)

5 JORDAN RAPANA (Canberra Raiders)

6 SHAUN JOHNSON (Vodafone Warriors)

7 KODI NIKORIMA (Brisbane Broncos)

8 JESSE BROMWICH (Melbourne Storm)

9 BRANDON SMITH (Melbourne Storm)

10 JARED WAEREA-HARGREAVES (Sydney Roosters)

11 KEVIN PROCTOR (Gold Coast Titans)

12 ISAAC LIU (Sydney Roosters)

13 ADAM BLAIR (Vodafone Warriors)

Interchange:

14 KENNY BROMWICH (Melbourne Storm)

15 LEESON AH MAU (St George Illawarra Dragons)

16 MARTIN TAUPAU (Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles)

17 JAMES FISHER-HARRIS (Penrith Panthers)

 

Extended bench:

18 JAHROME HUGHES (Melbourne Storm)

19 JOSEPH TAPINE (Canberra Raiders)

 

HEAD COACH | MICHAEL MAGUIRE

 

 

NEW ZEALAND KIWIS | END OF SEASON CAMPAIGN

(includes first Test v England, KCOM Stadium, Hull)

 

Player Club Kiwi No Tests for NZ
LEESON AH MAU St George Illawarra Dragons 812 3
GERARD BEALE Vodafone Warriors 767 11
ADAM BLAIR Vodafone Warriors 732 46
JESSE BROMWICH Melbourne Storm 775 26
KENNEATH BROMWICH Melbourne Storm 796 5
JAMES FISHER-HARRIS Penrith Panthers 801 4
PETA HIKU Vodafone Warriors 781 11
JAHROME HUGHES Melbourne Storm
JAMAYNE ISAAKO Brisbane Broncos 808 1
SHAUN JOHNSON Vodafone Warriors 774 27
ISAAC LIU Sydney Roosters 805 5
JOSEPH MANU Sydney Roosters 815 2
ESAN MARSTERS Wests Tigers 809 3
KEN MAUMALO Vodafone Warriors 810 3
KODI NIKORIMA Brisbane Broncos 790 11
AGNATIUS PAASI Vodafone Warriors
ISAIAH PAPALI’I Vodafone Warriors
KEVIN PROCTOR Gold Coast Titans 771 19
JORDAN RAPANA Canberra Raiders 798 10
BRANDON SMITH Melbourne Storm 816 2
JOSEPH TAPINE Canberra Raiders 800 9
MARTIN TAUPAU Manly Warringah Sea Eagles 785 23
JARED WAEREA-HARGREAVES Sydney Roosters 755 26
DALLIN WATENE-ZELEZNIAK Penrith Panthers 794 9

 

 

PROGRAMME

Saturday, October 13 | v Australia, Mount Smart Stadium, Auckland | Won 26-24

Saturday, October 27 | v England, KCOM Stadium, Hull | Lost 16-18

Sunday, November 4 | v England, Anfield, Liverpool

Saturday, November 11 | v England, Elland Road, Leeds

Liverpool, England, November 2, 2018 – Seasoned campaigner Adam Blair has been included in a 19-man New Zealand Kiwis squad for Sunday’s second Test against England at Anfield in Liverpool (2.30pm kick-off local time; 1.30am Monday NZT).

The 32-year-old was a late withdrawal for last Saturday’s first Test in Hull but head coach Michael Maguire has today confirmed Blair has fully recovered from a minor knee injury to be in contention this week.

Easily the most experienced player in the touring party, Blair is in line to make his 47th Test appearance.

Maguire has named the same 19 players originally selected for the opening encounter of the series. He will confirm his final 17 an hour and a half before kick-off.

“Adam has got through training well this week to put himself back in the frame for what is a critical match for us,” said Maguire.

“The players are all aware of the areas we need to improve in and they’ve put in the work this week to address where we need to be better.

“It’s also going to be a special experience playing at such a great stadium like Anfield, one we’re really looking forward to.”

This will be only the second rugby league international played at the Liverpool Football Club’s home.

The first was the 2016 Four Nations final between the Kangaroos and the Kiwis. The only survivors from that match named today are wing Jordan Rapana, halfback Shaun Johnson, props Jesse Bromwich and Blair, second rower Kevin Proctor and interchange forwards Martin Taupau and Joseph Tapine.

There have been four other rugby league matches played at Anfield previously, the first of them between Widnes and Wigan in 1989 followed by the 1991 World Club Challenge when Wigan faced Penrith.

The Kiwis’ preparation so far this week has centred on field sessions at Liverpool FC’s base at Melwood and the Wigan Warriors’ training centre in Orrell. They’ll have their first look at Anfield tomorrow when they have their final field session there.

 

 

NEW ZEALAND KIWIS v ENGLAND

2.30pm, Sunday, November 4, 2018

Anfield, Liverpool

 

NEW ZEALAND KIWIS

 

DALLIN WATENE-ZELEZNIAK (Penrith Panthers) captain

LEESON AH MAU (St George Illawarra Dragons)

ADAM BLAIR (Vodafone Warriors)

JESSE BROMWICH (Melbourne Storm)

KENNY BROMWICH (Melbourne Storm)

JAMES FISHER-HARRIS (Penrith Panthers)

JAHROME HUGHES (Melbourne Storm)

SHAUN JOHNSON (Vodafone Warriors)

ISAAC LIU (Sydney Roosters)

JOSEPH MANU (Sydney Roosters)

ESAN MARSTERS (Wests Tigers)

KEN MAUMALO (Vodafone Warriors)

KODI NIKORIMA (Brisbane Broncos)

KEVIN PROCTOR (Gold Coast Titans)

JORDAN RAPANA (Canberra Raiders)

BRANDON SMITH (Melbourne Storm)

JOSEPH TAPINE (Canberra Raiders)

MARTIN TAUPAU (Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles)

JARED WAEREA-HARGREAVES (Sydney Roosters)

 

HEAD COACH | MICHAEL MAGUIRE

 

 

NEW ZEALAND KIWIS | END OF SEASON CAMPAIGN

(includes first Test v England, KCOM Stadium, Hull)

 

Player Club Kiwi No Tests for NZ
LEESON AH MAU St George Illawarra Dragons 812 3
GERARD BEALE Vodafone Warriors 767 11
ADAM BLAIR Vodafone Warriors 732 46
JESSE BROMWICH Melbourne Storm 775 26
KENNEATH BROMWICH Melbourne Storm 796 5
JAMES FISHER-HARRIS Penrith Panthers 801 4
PETA HIKU Vodafone Warriors 781 11
JAHROME HUGHES Melbourne Storm
JAMAYNE ISAAKO Brisbane Broncos 808 1
SHAUN JOHNSON Vodafone Warriors 774 27
ISAAC LIU Sydney Roosters 805 5
JOSEPH MANU Sydney Roosters 815 2
ESAN MARSTERS Wests Tigers 809 3
KEN MAUMALO Vodafone Warriors 810 3
KODI NIKORIMA Brisbane Broncos 790 11
AGNATIUS PAASI Vodafone Warriors
ISAIAH PAPALI’I Vodafone Warriors
KEVIN PROCTOR Gold Coast Titans 771 19
JORDAN RAPANA Canberra Raiders 798 10
BRANDON SMITH Melbourne Storm 816 2
JOSEPH TAPINE Canberra Raiders 800 9
MARTIN TAUPAU Manly Warringah Sea Eagles 785 23
JARED WAEREA-HARGREAVES Sydney Roosters 755 26
DALLIN WATENE-ZELEZNIAK Penrith Panthers 794 9

 

 

 

 

 

PROGRAMME

Saturday, October 13 | v Australia, Mount Smart Stadium, Auckland | Won 26-24

Saturday, October 27 | v England, KCOM Stadium, Hull

Sunday, November 4 | v England, Anfield, Liverpool

Saturday, November 11 | v England, Elland Road, Leeds

The New Zealand Rugby League (NZRL) and Physical Disability Rugby League New Zealand (PDRLNZ)  have teamed up to spread the word of inclusiveness and diversity in sport with rugby league as the vehicle.

The NZRL welcomes PDRL on board as an official affiliate of the organisation, a partnership NZRL CEO Greg Peters is in full support of.

“We are delighted to officially welcome PDRLNZ into the New Zealand Rugby League whanau,”

“Sandra Hickey (founder of PDRLNZ) and her team have done a brilliant job of getting PDRLNZ to where they are today, recently returning from the 2018 PDRL Emerging Nations World Championships with a silver medal,”

“Listening to the stories of the PDRLNZ athletes is truly inspirational and we are so lucky to officially have them on board as an NZRL Affiliate,”

“I look forward to working alongside PDRLNZ to make the game of rugby league accessible to everyone,” Peters said.

Physical Disability Rugby League is a modified version of the game for players with a physical disability who wouldn’t otherwise be able to play. It does not shy away from the impact, collision and physicality of league, but has full contact, partial contact and touch elements, so that it caters for a wide spectrum of impairments, including amputees, cerebral palsy, neuromuscular disorders, limb deficiencies and acquired brain injuries. The rules allow two able bodied players a team, and provide for both male and female players.

When speaking with Sandra Hickey, it’s hard not to buy into her passion for Physical Disability Rugby League in New Zealand and the difference it is making to the lives of their athletes.

“I am absolutely wrapped for our organisation to be affiliated with the National Governing Body as it is not something we take lightly,”

“This partnership creates the opportunity for our PDRL athletes to stand hand-and-hand with their able-bodied peers on the world stage, just as the Kiwis and Kiwi Ferns do,”

“The New Zealand Rugby League is very much entering a fresh new era and we are very proud to be a part of that journey,” Hickey said.

Hickey also says rugby league is helping to break down the stigma of being disabled and encourages people to embrace all participants for who they are.

The partnership between the NZRL and PDRLNZ reinforces the organisation’s commitment to the ‘Sport for Everyone’ framework. This agreement saw sports organisations in New Zealand collaborate in a joint initiative to ensure all codes foster a welcoming and inclusive environment for anyone and everyone to enjoy.

Ever wondered how the Te Iwi Kiwi haka came about? Cultural Advisor Ora Kihi talks us through the meaning of the haka and why it has a special place in the hearts of all our Kiwis players, and their biggest supporters.

TE IWI KIWI HAKA WORDS

TUKUA TE KAWAU MARO

BATTLE FORMATION, PREPARE OF WAR,

 NGA KIWI O TE AO

A call to all Kiwis of the world

 TENA HUAKINA

Unleash the spirit within.

TENA POUA

Prepare the post for our house.

POU TUTURU

The Maori Pou, indigenous people    

RUURUU ANA

Let the earth shake and ground rumble.

POU TUUHONO

The Pou that links all cultures.    

TUMATAUENGA

The God of War

TE OPE TAUA

Who is this war party      

KO TE KAPA KIWI E

It is the Kiwi war party

TAU MAI TAKU MANA

I draw my power.        

NO TUAWHAKARERE

From the beginning of time

TAU MAI KO TE IHI

I draw my strength.      

NO OKU TUPUNA

From my ancestors.

HIINEI TAKU WHARE

Here stands my House.  

KIA TUPATO

Be careful

KEI MATE

For I will defend it        

HI HAA

The breath of LIFE.

 

 

The long-list for the Rugby League International Federation Golden Boot awarded to the players who have produced the most outstanding performances in international games throughout the year has been extended after the weekend’s games.

Five players have been added to the men’s list and one player to the women’s list.

England has supplied John Bateman, Tommy Makinson and Elliott Whitehead all of whom had stand-out games in the first test match against New Zealand.

In turn the panel has added Kiwi players, Shaun Johnson and Dallin Watene-Zelezniak to the list which already includes Tonga’s Jason Taumololo and Sio Siua Taukeiaho and from Australia, Valentine Holmes, James Tedesco and Boyd Cordner.

Georgia Roche can celebrate her England debut plus a nomination for the prestigious BBC young sports personality of the year by adding a nomination to be the inaugural Women’s Golden Boot winner. She joins New Zealand star, Honey Hireme and Australians Isabelle Kelly, Ali Brigginshaw and Brittany Breayley.

The panel, drawn from the rugby league media in both hemispheres will meet again on Sunday November 4th to select the final short-lists

The RLIF Golden Boot 2018 will be awarded to the winners at a special dinner at Elland Road, Leeds on November 7th.

RLIF Men’s Golden Boot 2018                                RLIF Women’s Golden Boot 2018

 

James Tedesco (Australia)                                                Honey Hireme (New Zealand)

Boyd Cordner (Australia)                                                   Ali Brigginshaw (Australia)

Jason Taumalolo (Tonga)                                                  Brittany Breayley (Australia)

Valentine Holmes (Australia)                                             Isabelle Kelly (Australia)

Sio Siua Taukeiaho (Tonga)                                                 Georgia Roche (England)

Dallin Watene-Zelezniak (NZ)

Shaun Johnson (NZ)

John Bateman (England)

Tommy Makinson (England)

Elliott Whitehead (England)

Expressions of interest are now being called for the following Senior team positions.

Coaches, managers, trainers and other support staff for Premier 1st and Premier 2nd and trainer for Premiers.

All candidates for coaching positions must have:

  • NZRL Senior Coaching Level 2 accreditation or be in the process of acquiring this
  • Previous coaching experience
  • Knowledge of local rugby league talent
  • Strong communication skills to deliver effective coaching and development plans in conjunction with the head coach

Please register your interest by Friday, 9 November 2018 to Club Captain, Mike Phillips at mclcphillips@gmail.com

 

Hull, England, October 27, 2018

Kiwis head coach Michael Maguire has today been given full backing by the New Zealand Rugby League following confirmation he is to return to NRL coaching with the Wests Tigers next season.

CEO Greg Peters said the NZRL had no issue with Maguire combining dual roles with the New Zealand Kiwis and the NRL side.

“We were aware when we appointed Michael that this was the likely outcome,” said Peters.

“He made it clear to us from the outset that he wanted to coach in the NRL again as well as coach the Kiwis. He wants to develop a winning culture that takes us to the World Cup.

“We congratulate Madge on his appointment. He knows we have confidence in him being able to continue his vital role with the Kiwis in the current series against England and in the years to come.”

By Alicia Newton, nrl.com reporter on tour in England

England has taken a 1-0 lead in its Test series against New Zealand with a late try to Oliver Gildart sealing an 18-16 victory in Hull today.

Both sides struggled to control the game in frosty conditions but a late offload from Canberra-bound second rower John Bateman was enough for Gildart to race down the sideline and beat Dallin Watene-Zelezniak to the line with 12 minutes remaining.

The Kiwis will rue their discipline late in the contest after taking the lead twice through penalty goals. That came despite the visitors struggling with field position throughout the game.

Props Tom Burgess (139 metres from 12 runs) and James Graham (125 from 14) were among the best for England while Jesse Bromwich (191 from 17), Jared Waerea-Hargreaves (135 from 15), Marty Taupau (135 from 13) and Leeson Ah Mau (124 from 11) led the way for the Kiwis in the middle of the park.

England was first on the board through Sam Tomkins, who finished off an attacking raid after Tommy Makinson got over the top of Jordan Rapana to collect a cross-field kick and keep the ball alive.

The Kiwis responded with a slick movement of their own to level the scores with Esan Marsters crossing after an inside pass from Shaun Johnson.

England winger Jermaine McGillvary then fumbled a ball midway through the first half, an error that enabled Kodi Nikorima to send Kiwi skipper Dallin Watene-Zelezniak over from the resulting scrum.

But Watene-Zelezniak then became the villain on the stroke of halftime when England levelled the scores with Jake Connor awarded a penalty try as the Kiwi fullback came across in defence leading with his knees in a point-scoring opportunity.

 

 

Temperatures at KCOM Stadium dipped as both teams returned from the break but Johnson was full of running immediately to earn a penalty with a weaving run, the Kiwis taking the two points on offer for a 14-12 lead.

It took England three minutes to take a penalty goal of their own with back-to-back penalties leaving Kiwi coach Michael Maguire fuming at his side’s ill-discipline.

The Kiwis went back in front with another Johnson penalty but Gildart’s try with 12 minutes remaining turned out to be the match-winner despite a last-minute surge from the visitors.

Both sides travel to Liverpool on Sunday ahead of their next clash at Anfield on November 4.

 

 

Canberra second rower Joseph Tapine has been brought onto the bench to replace Vodafone Warriors forward Adam Blair for the Kiwis’ first Test against England at Hull’s KCOM Stadium (2.30pm kick-off local time).

The 46-Test veteran Blair took a knock to his right knee in a training session in Wigan on Wednesday.

He ran extensively at training yesterday but head coach Michael Maguire has decided to leave him out this week, bringing in Tapine for his ninth Test.

Tapine’s place in the 19-man squad has been taken by Vodafone Warriors utility Peta Hiku.

 

NEW ZEALAND KIWIS v ENGLAND

2.30pm, Saturday, October 27, 2018

KC Stadium, Hull

 

NEW ZEALAND KIWIS

1 DALLIN WATENE-ZELEZNIAK (Penrith Panthers) captain

2 KEN MAUMALO (Vodafone Warriors)

3 ESAN MARSTERS (Wests Tigers)

4 JOSEPH MANU (Sydney Roosters)

5 JORDAN RAPANA (Canberra Raiders)

6 SHAUN JOHNSON (Vodafone Warriors)

7 KODI NIKORIMA (Brisbane Broncos)

8 JESSE BROMWICH (Melbourne Storm)

9 BRANDON SMITH (Melbourne Storm)

10 JARED WAEREA-HARGREAVES (Sydney Roosters)

11 KEVIN PROCTOR (Gold Coast Titans)

12 ISAAC LIU (Sydney Roosters)

13 JAMES FISHER-HARRIS (Penrith Panthers)

Interchange:

14 KENNY BROMWICH (Melbourne Storm)

15 LEESON AH MAU (St George Illawarra Dragons)

16 MARTIN TAUPAU (Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles)

19 JOSEPH TAPINE (Canberra Raiders)

 

Extended:

18 JAHROME HUGHES (Melbourne Storm)

21 PETA HIKU (Vodafone Warriors)

 

HEAD COACH | MICHAEL MAGUIRE