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Another Busy Weekend in the Community

NZRL — Mon, 14 Mar 2011 11:00:00 GMT

On Saturday March 12 more than 130 children gathered in Thames for the Waikato Community Roots Camp. After starting the day with breakfast from Goodman Fielder and Nestle they warmed up with Ruben Wiki and then got out onto the field to try out some fun skills and drills.

The younger children worked in small groups on drills appropriate for their age, 18 adults went inside and completed the Mini-Mod course and the older children worked on their ball skills. Everyone finished the day with a warm down, then went and collected their NZRL / Warriors giveaway pack before enjoying the BBQ, and taking the chance to see the World Cup.

On Sunday, the camp took place in Auckland and followed the usual programme of breakfast, warm ups, drills, backyard footy, warm downs, giveaway packs and BBQ. Three Vodafone Warriors players, Ivan Penehe, Shaun Johnson and Sione Lousi attended the camp and took part in the warm ups, chatted with the children and gave out the giveaways at the end of the day. As always Ruben Wiki proved popular signing autographs and posing for photos as well as completing his official duties in his role as a member of the NZRL Football Department.

With six Community camps and a fun day completed, more than 110 coaches and 960 children have been involved and there are a further nine Community Roots camps to be run before the end of April.

Legends Raise More than $100,000 for Christchurch Appeal

NZRL — Thu, 10 Mar 2011 11:00:00 GMT

NZRL would like to thank everyone who came out to the game yesterday, it was a very special evening. Thanks to all those who donated by paying for their tickets, giving so generously to the bucket collectors at the gate, bid in the Trade Me auction and have helped raise more than $100,000 for the earthquake appeal.

A big thank you also to all the sponsors who helped make the game possible especially the Southern Trust, Gary Freeman and Konami Gaming, Ticketek, SkyCity, the Mad Butcher, DPod, Vodafone, Grabaseat, Radio Network, Original Print Media and Mt Smart Stadium.

Thank you to all the players from both sides of the Tasman who gave of their time, and went all out to make the game so exciting and entertaining. It was wonderful to see so many familiar faces out on the field again.

All the players played the game with great heart and spirit, and there was a lot of laughter as the referee took the ball from the back of the scrum, only to be tackled hard for his trouble.

Both the Trade Me winners, who between them paid nearly $20,000 to play with the teams, really enjoyed the evening, with John Cornwell playing for the Red Legends finding out the hard way just how tough it is to face a tackle from Monty Betham.

The Kiwis (Black Legends team) won 32 - 22 with both Trade Me winners scoring tries.

New Zealand Legends 32 (Joe Vagana, Ruben Wiki, Sam Panapa, Sean Hoppe, Dean Affleck, Jerry Seuseu tries; Olsen Filipaina conversion; Duane Mann conversion; Sam Panapa conversion; Richie Barnett conversion).

Australian Legends 22 (David Myles, Scott Hill, Billy Peden, Nathan Blacklock, John Cornwell tries; Hazem el Masri conversion).

Halftime: 18-10 New Zealand.

Crowd: 6114.

Community Camps Make League Accessible

NZRL — Wed, 09 Mar 2011 11:00:00 GMT

From the first Carnival Day in Greymouth, as part of the Miners Solidarity weekend, to events in Rotorua, Whangarei, Hawera and Palmerston North more than 750 children have already experienced the fun that can be had at a New Zealand Rugby League Community Roots camp.

Children aged 5 - 12 years are invited to come along and take part in some fun skills and drills, have something to eat and drink with their heroes and all registered participants leave the event with a NZL / Vodafone Warriors giveaway pack.

Dan Floyd, NZRL Coaching and Development Manager said "The aim of the camps is to show families that at the entry level our game is very safe. We have Mini league for the under 6's - under 9's, then Mod Football up to under 12 years and we have the Safeplay Code to ensure everyone who plays enjoys themselves. This is a game for anyone."

He continues "Where possible we are running Mini-Mod Fundamentals courses at the camps, so the parents are learning new skills at the same time as their children. We hope they will go on to coach, manage or train their child's team and be a positive role model while having fun."

Dain Guttenbeil, NZRL Community Programmes Manager agrees "Parents are worried about their children spending too much time inside and not being active enough. The great thing about the Community camps and about playing league is that you get to be outside, are active, learn new skills and have all the benefits that come from being part of a team. We're also able to use the time to send important health and safety messages, by greeting them with sunblock in hand; having water stations all around the grounds; providing food and then including mouthguards in their giveaway packs."

Each Camp follows a similar format with children registering on arrival, being greeted by Ruben Wiki with the sunblock and Vodafone Warriors players who assist them with their registrations and stamp their hands to make sure they receive their goodies later in the day. Then following a short welcome they head out to take part in the skills and drills appropriate for their age.

First up is a short warm up with a little running and then stretches, lead by Ruben Wiki, joined by Warriors players who mix in with the children to show them how it's done.

Then the smallest participants, aged 5 - 8 years head to one corner of the ground and separate into small groups each lead by a coach. They play running games, relay races, have fun passing the ball and scoring tries, play traffic light and a variety of other age appropriate games.

In the middle of the ground, the 8 - 12 year olds also split into groups and at each station work with coaches and referees at a variety of fun games which involve running, passing, throwing and catching.

Vodafone Warriors players circulate, joining in with the children and taking part in the sessions. The groups rotate within their area, ensuring the children are able to try each of the games before they finish.

After the first set of rotations, the youngest children head to the muster area to have a drink and a sausage before receiving their giveaway packs from Ruben Wiki and the Warriors players. They then have time to visit the tent to see the Rugby League World Cup and the Four Nations trophy and take the opportunity to have photos with, and get autographs from the Warriors players and the ever popular Ruben Wiki.

The fields are re-set and the 8 - 12 year olds refreshed with water and with their sunblock replenished, head back out onto the field to take part in a backyard footy tournament.

They play 10 minutes-a-side games of backyard footy and then they too return to the muster area for their drinks, sausages and giveaway packs.

Throughout the day sessions are monitored and times adjusted to ensure that the weather, be it very hot or wet and cold doesn't negatively impact on the children.

Tony Kemp, NZRL Football Manager says "It is great to be a part of these camps, to see families out together getting pleasure from being involved in something which is active and teaches their children a number of important messages in a subtle way. During the day people like Ruben Wiki and the Vodafone Warriors remind them of the importance of wearing sunblock, eating regular meals, and keeping hydrated by modelling the same behaviour."

"I love seeing the kids crowding around their idols, getting to take part in games with them, and having the chance to get right up close to the World Cup and Four Nations trophy. Hopefully one day some of these kids will be our next junior representative players and we might even see them in the Kiwis or Kiwi Ferns. The main thing is that they are learning and having fun at the same time."

There are a further 11 Community Roots camps timetabled for around New Zealand in the coming months, and if 2010 is any guide, by the end of it many thousands of NZ children and their parents will have had the chance to see for themselves how much fun league is for even the very youngest children.

Final Line-Ups Confirmed For Legends Of League Charity Match

NZRL — Sat, 05 Mar 2011 11:00:00 GMT

Rugby league greats Ruben Wiki and Ben Elias have been named as captains of the star-studded New Zealand and Australian teams for the Legends of League Charity Match at Mount Smart Stadium next Thursday (March 10) to raise funds for the Christchurch Earthquake Appeal. It will be a case of back to the future for the 38-year-old Wiki who will play in the centres, the position he filled early in his Test career after making his debut in 1994.

To be a part of the action, you can bid in our on-line auction for a place on one of the teams, all proceeds to the official appeal. Bid here and to get along to the game buy your tickets here.

Alongside him will be a number of players he had as New Zealand team-mates at some stage during his career including Richie Barnett, Sean Hoppe, David Kidwell, Stacey Jones, Joe Vagana, Gary Freeman, Quentin Pongia and more.

Also in the New Zealand side are the legendary Kurt Sorensen and Olsen Filipaina, brilliant players from the 1980s now both well into their fifties. Filipaina is playing despite battling illness in recent years while one of the game's organisers Tawera Nikau will play with his artificial leg.

Elias, an outstanding hooker in his day for Balmain, New South Wales and Australia, has one of his Tigers team-mates Paul Sironen with him while revered Vodafone Warriors hard man Kevin Campion is also lining up. Included in the Australian side are four New Zealand guest players in Clayton Friend, Mark Horo, Craig Smith and Jason Williams plus Tonie Carroll, who played for both the Kiwis and the Kangaroos during his career.

Also named is Australian football star Mark Bosnich, who carved out a long professional career with Manchester United, Aston Villa and Chelsea in the English Premier League.

The only names to be confirmed are for the spots kept open in each side for the highest bidders in an online auction on www.trademe.co.nz.

Apart from Nikau, the other former players helping to bring the squads together are Gary Freeman, former Vodafone Warriors captain Monty Betham and Nigel Vagana while the New Zealand Rugby League, the League 4 Life Foundation, Vodafone and Mount Smart Stadium are lending their support to the event.

To be a part of the action, fans can bid here for a place in one of the teams (all proceeds to the official appeal). For those wanting to attend the match buy your tickets here (or go to www.ticketek.co.nz or www.nzrl.co.nz).
Tickets are priced at $20.00 for everyone except children 12 and under, who will be granted free entry. There'll be bucket collections throughout the evening to raise funds for the appeal.
The gates open at 5.00pm with entertainment starting at 5.30pm from artists such as Vince Harder, Jason Kerrison and the ReQuest Dance Crew.

LEGENDS OF LEAGUE CHARITY MATCH
Mount Smart Stadium, Auckland
7.00pm, Thursday, March 10

NEW ZEALAND

1	RICHIE BARNETT
2	SEAN HOPPE
3	DAVID KIDWELL
4	RUBEN WIKI (c)
5	SAM PANAPA
6	OLSEN FILIPAINA
7	STACEY JONES
8	JOE VAGANA
9	MONTY BETHAM
10	JERRY SEUSEU
11	KURT SORENSEN
12	TAWERA NIKAU
13	HUGH McGAHAN
	Interchange:
14	GARY FREEMAN
15	DUANE MANN
16	PAUL RAUHIHI
17	LOGAN SWANN
18	TRADEME
19	QUENTIN PONGIA
20	AWEN GUTTENBEIL

AUSTRALIA

1	DAVID PEACHEY
2	HAZEM EL MASRI
3	DAVID MYLES
4	TONIE CARROLL
5	NATHAN BLACKLOCK
6	SCOTT HILL
7	CLAYTON FRIEND
8	MARK HORO
9	BEN ELIAS (c)
10	CRAIG SMITH
11	PAUL SIRONEN
12	JOHN HOPOATE
13	KEVIN CAMPION
	Interchange:
14	JASON DEATH
15	PAUL LANGMACK
16	BRUCE McGUIRE
17	MARK BOSNICH
18	BILLY PEDEN
19	TRADEME
20	JASON WILLIAMS

NZRL Confirms Christchurch Test to be Moved

NZRL — Thu, 03 Mar 2011 11:00:00 GMT

New Zealand Rugby League chief executive Jim Doyle has today confirmed the May 6 Christchurch Test between New Zealand and Australia will move to the Gold Coast's Skilled Park as Christchurch works to recover from the devastation of February's earthquake.

The NZRL and the ARL have made a firm commitment to return the Anzac Test to Christchurch in 2012 when AMI Stadium and the city itself can capitalise on the benefits of hosting the international.

"Our thoughts are with the people of Christchurch and the Canterbury region at this time," he said.

"The priority for them now is to somehow get their lives back together and the valuable resources they have on call need to be focused on trying to rebuild their city.

"By next year, hopefully, they will be looking for the tourism and the international exposure that this match can deliver, and we will be there to do everything we can to deliver that outcome.

"We remain committed to giving the people of Canterbury the chance to see the world champion Kiwis but unfortunately it is in everyone's interest that we wait for the right time.

"We are conscious that there are a lot of people hurting at the moment in Christchurch, as well as many in Queensland who are still coming to terms with the devastation of recent floods, and the Test will certainly include a number of fund-raising efforts."

To accommodate the venue change, the Warriors' round nine match against the Titans, which was scheduled to be played at Mount Smart Stadium, has been moved to Skilled Park. The corresponding match between the two teams in round 18 will move from Skilled Park to Mount Smart.

"The move has been agreed to by both clubs and reduces the impact of the venue change on the Warriors players," said NRL chief executive David Gallop today.

"There is tremendous sympathy for the people of Christchurch and we accept that the city is simply not in a position to host the match.

"Everyone is committed to making sure, though, that we are there to support the city with a Test when the time is right."

AMI Stadium operator Vbase today applauded the decision to commit to a New Zealand v Australia Test in 2012.

"We have been working with the NZRL with respect to the difficulties of hosting the Anzac Test in early May," said chief executive Brian Pearson.

"We are delighted they have made the decision to commit to Christchurch for next year."

Locals Pitch in to Make Camp a Success

NZRL — Tue, 01 Mar 2011 11:00:00 GMT

Two extremely well organised and well run NZRL Community Roots camps took place over the weekend. More than 100 children in Hawera and 165 children in Palmerston North took part in the camps which started with breakfast, a warm up with Ruben Wiki then fun skills and drills sessions, especially designed to be appropriate for their age.

After the first sessions the under eights received their NZRL giveaway packs and had something to eat and drink, while those over nine grabbed a drink, and when needed more sunblock, before heading back out onto the field to take part in the backyard footy tournament. Later they also finished the day with a presentation of giveaway packs and something to eat and drink.

At all camps the Rugby League World Cup and Four Nations Trophy are on display and available for photographs, while referees hand out brochures encouraging locals to become involved in the game by becoming match officials.

At both these camps parents were also offered the opportunity to complete the free Mini-Mod Fundamentals certificate and in Hawera 17 parents did so, while in Palmerston North a further 35 completed the course.

Dan Floyd, NZRL Coaching and Development Manager said "These were two really well run camps. They had lots of volunteers who worked hard to make the day a success for everyone. We can't thank the local districts and the Zone enough for their contribution."

Local feedback was equally positive with local Anjali Butler saying, "On behalf of the Highbury Whanau Centre, I want to extend our thanks to you and your team for bringing the Roots Camp to our facility in Highbury (Palmerston North). It was an absolute privilege to be part of such an exciting and positive day for the local kids and their whanau. The feedback has been great. The kids loved it, the parents were rapt, and the volunteers were 'buzzing' to be part of such a positive and uplifting day."

Already this year nearly 90 adults have been through the courses while over 770 children have enjoyed the fun and learning at the NZRL Community Roots camps.

A further eleven camps are timetabled for around NZ before the end of April, see www.nzrl.co.nz/national-calendar-2011 for details.

Breakfast provided to the children with the generous support of Goodman Fielder and Natures Fresh, and Nestle.

The helpers in hi-vz vests and the children listen to instructions from Ruben Wiki, NZRL High Performance Manager before everyone warms up.

Collecting giveaway packs at the end of another busy day.

A great chance to get up close with some amazing silverware.

Coaches listening to Tony Kemp, NZRL Football Manager.

More photos of the camps can be found on our Facebook page here.

Legends Turn Out in Support of Appeal

NZRL — Mon, 28 Feb 2011 11:00:00 GMT

Big names of the past from both sides of the Tasman will band together for a Legends of League Charity Match at Mount Smart Stadium next Thursday (March 10) to raise funds for the Christchurch Earthquake Appeal.

To be a part of the action, you can bid in our on-line auction for a place on one of the teams, all proceeds to the official appeal. Bid here and to get along to the game buy your tickets here.

New Zealand Rugby League chief executive Jim Doyle today confirmed the national body was working together with a group of former Kiwi legends and other organisations to stage a response from the code to help the Christchurch community.

"Everyone in the country is trying to find some way of helping the people in Christchurch and the Canterbury region," he said.

"Staging the Legends of League Charity Match is our way of bringing people in Auckland together to provide some financial support for a community that's been devastated and is in desperate need.

"We invite everyone to pack Mount Smart Stadium next Thursday and let's all do the best we can to help Christchurch."

Doyle said it was originally hoped to play the game on Wednesday, March 9 but a change of date was made late yesterday on police advice. They pointed out there would be a clash of events with racing's glamour Auckland Cup meet already scheduled that day. With many of Auckland's police force deployed to help in Christchurch, resources were stretched to cope with the Legends of League match on the same day.

Former internationals Gary Freeman, Monty Betham, Nigel Vagana and Tawera Nikau have coordinated a campaign on both sides of the Tasman to organise teams for the match while Mount Smart Stadium, the NZRL and Vodafone are lending their support. Also behind the cause is the NZRL's League 4 Life Foundation.

Doyle said the total proceeds from the match - including a bucket collection throughout the evening - would be donated to the earthquake appeal.

Among the former New Zealand internationals set to appear is Nikau himself, who is prepared to take the field despite having an artificial limb.

Many of the biggest names in New Zealand rugby league history are set to join Nikau including 1980s heroes Kurt Sorensen and Olsen Filipaina plus Stacey Jones, the Kiwis' 2008 World Cup-winning captain Nathan Cayless, Hugh McGahan and more.

More players are being enlisted with line-ups to be confirmed in the coming days. Australians Mario Fenech and David Peachey have also volunteered to play.

Doyle said top New Zealand musicians would provide entertainment before the game with Che Fu, Vince Harder, Jason Kerrison and ReQuest Dance Crew lined up. The entertainment is timed to start at 5.30pm after the gates open at 5.00pm with the Legends of League Charity Match kicking off at 7.00pm.

Tickets are priced at a flat rate of $20 for adults with all children 12 and under free. Tickets will be available from www.ticketek.co.nz from today or Wednesday.

The list of players set to be involved so far is (all former Kiwis unless stated): Willie Talau, David Kidwell, Luke Covell, Alex Chan, Olsen Filipaina, Kurt Sorensen, Andrew Lomu, Jason Williams, Sam Panapa, Sam Panapa, Sean Hoppe, Quentin Pongia, David Peachey (Australia), Mario Fenech (Australia), Awen Guttenbiel, Stacey Jones, Monty Betham, Richie Barnett, Wairangi Koopu, Logan Swann, Joe Vagana, Ruben Wiki, Tawera Nikau, Paul Rauhihi, Jerry Seuseu, Tea Ropati, Dean Lonergan, Clayton Friend, Duane Mann, Francis Leota, Hugh McGahan.

NZRL FINANCES SHOW FURTHER IMPROVEMENT

NZRL — Fri, 25 Feb 2011 11:00:00 GMT

The New Zealand Rugby League today announced an audited profit of $315,000 for the 2010 financial year, an increase on the $158,000 surplus reported in 2009.

Chairman Scott Carter said the result was particularly satisfying given increased investment into the sport at a number of levels, and the difficult economy. "The challenge for any sport is to grow while living within its means," he said. "The board has a firm belief in not spending what you don't have, and adopting conservative forecasts around less predictable income such as Test match revenue.

"However, the NZRL has been able to improve revenues from its commercial and media rights and then reinvested that money in growing the support structure for the clubs throughout the country."

Carter said funds continue to be set aside to build up cash reserves for the 2013 Rugby League World Cup year.

'In the past the RLIF (Rugby League International Federation) has retained World Cup commercial rights and profits," he said.

"Unless we can change that thinking, we will need to fund domestic operations in 2013 from reserves."

The 2010 result featured consolidated revenues of $5.91 million, up from $4.45 million in 2009.

Chief executive Jim Doyle advised income was generated primarily from the Anzac Test in Melbourne, the Four Nations tournament co-hosted by New Zealand and Australia, SKY Network TV broadcasting rights, TAB, SPARC funding, grants and commercial sponsorships.

Expenses also rose to $5.59 million compared to $4.29 million in 2009, with Doyle highlighting increased expenditure on game development and support personnel throughout the country, the new National Competition, community programmes and Four Nations win bonuses for the Kiwis.

He said the financial result rounded off a highly successful year on and off the field for the NZRL.

Directors Names for NZRL Board

NZRL — Thu, 24 Feb 2011 11:00:00 GMT

New Zealand Rugby League board chairman Scott Carter today named Gisborne mayor Meng Foon and former Saatchi and Saatchi New Zealand general manager Jennifer Rolfe as NZRL directors for the next three years.

Under the NZRL's constitution adopted in 2009 the board comprises four appointed directors and three elected directors. With the inaugural board established in June 2009, incumbents Meng Foon and Michelle Teague were the first two directors due for rotation.

An appointments panel directly appoints one director and nominates another for election by the seven zone delegates at the annual general meeting in March.

The members of the appointment panel were Sir John Wells (panel chairman), NZRL board chairman Scott Carter, chairman of Counties-Manukau Rugby League Ken Lotu-I'iga (zone representative), and SPARC board member Don Mackinnon.

The appointments panel has nominated Meng Foon for re-election, and selected highly regarded marketing consultant Jennifer Rolfe as the new independent director.

Wells said there was considerable interest in the directors' positions with a total of 15 applications received.

"After a thorough interview process we chose two individuals whom we believe will complement the skills of the current board and provide the right mix of rugby league knowledge and commercial expertise to meet the challenges anticipated ahead for New Zealand Rugby League," he said.

Carter paid tribute to outgoing board member Michelle Teague, who recently relocated to Sydney to head Australian advertising agency The Campaign Palace, noting she had "contributed significantly to the progress of New Zealand Rugby League over the past two years".

Appointed Director

JENNIFER ROLFE

Jennifer Rolfe is an experienced senior executive having worked with many of New Zealand's top companies and brands. She is currently consulting to major corporates and is a director of Dunedin Venues Management Limited which runs Dunedin Stadium. She is a former general manager of Saatchi and Saatchi and highly experienced in brand leadership both locally and internationally. She has commercial and strategic skills with particular expertise in digital and direct services.

• March 2010 to current: Director of Rolfe Limited.

• July 2006 to March 2010: General Manager at Saatchi and Saatchi New Zealand.

• August 2006 to current: Board member of Dunedin Venues Management Limited which runs Dunedin Stadium.

• 2008 to 2010: Board member of New Zealand Marketing Association.

• 2008 to 2009: Committee member of Direct Marketing Industry Committee.

• October 2005 to July 2006: Executive Director at Ogilvy Advertising.

Proposed director put forward for election

MENG FOON

Meng Foon is the Mayor of Gisborne District Council and a current director of New Zealand Rugby League. He has been involved in rugby league for 22 years as an administrator, sponsor, supporter and facilitator. Mayor for 10 years, Meng Foon has experience in finance, planning, governance and working with community organisations. He has an extensive business background and a long record of involvement with community based programmes. He has been a chair of Gisborne/Tarawhiti Rugby League and has played a major role in implementing a strategic plan in the region to grow the sport.

Christchurch Earthquake

NZRL — Tue, 22 Feb 2011 11:00:00 GMT

New Zealand Rugby League would like to extend our sincere condolences to everyone who has been affected by yesterdays devastating earthquake. Like all New Zealanders our thoughts are with the residents of Christchurch and the Canterbury region at this most difficult time. We will do whatever we can in the future to assist our members and the greater rugby league community in the region.

NZRL would like to encourage the rugby league family to show their support for the Christchurch community by making donations to the official Red Cross appeal. Text 4419 to donate $3 -and see the Red Cross here to find out how to make a donation if you don't have a mobile phone.

Sun Shines on Northland Community Roots Camp

NZRL — Mon, 21 Feb 2011 11:00:00 GMT

More than 200 children took part in the Northland Community Roots Camp held at Otaika Sports Park, known locally as the Blue Goose, on Saturday February 19. Arriving as much as an hour before the designated start time; families were greeted by Ruben Wiki, and offered sunblock while they completed the registration forms with their children.

Once registration was complete, each child received the all-important stamp on the hand which ensured they received breakfast, got to take part in the fun skills and drills sessions and got their food and giveaway packs at the end of the day. Many of the children were lucky enough to have their hands stamped by one of the Vodafone Warriors players who had come along to join in the fun.

A number of tents were spread around the grounds offering chill out zones and much needed shade, one was used to display the Rugby League World Cup and the Four Nations Trophy and the referees gave out brochures to anyone interested in finding our more about becoming a match official, one offered Kiwis and NZRL merchandise at 30% off (a Community Camps special offer.)

After a short welcome from Rob Wakelin, Northern Zone General Manager, all the children started the day with breakfast; cereal with milk, cold milk drinks and toast with spread, kindly provided by Goodman Fielder and Natures Fresh bread, and Nestle.

The children then followed Ruben Wiki onto the field for a gentle warm up run and some stretches before they split up into groups for the skills sessions. The youngest 5 - 8 yrs headed to one field, the 9 - 12 year olds to another. The Warriors players spread out and joined in the sessions with the children.

Each group worked through a number of fun games and drills appropriate to their ages, completing four rotations before taking a much-needed break on the very hot day.

Sunblock and water stations were located all around the fields ensuring everyone was well covered and hydrated. Ruben Wiki and members of the Vodafone Warriors helped with the dispensing of both.

After the first rotation, the 5 - 8 year olds finished their day with drinks of cold water, something to eat and received their give-away packs from the Vodafone Warriors players.

Meanwhile the fields were re-set for a backyard footy tournament for the 9 - 12 year olds. They took to the field again for 10 minute a side games and then they too finished up with cold water, food and their giveaway packs.

This was the third of the 18 camps to be held around NZ this year and already hundreds of children and their families have been able to experience just some of the fun you can have when you get involved with rugby league. See here for the dates of the coming camps.

Rotorua Community Camp Exceeds Expectations

NZRL — Mon, 14 Feb 2011 11:00:00 GMT

The sun was shining brightly as more than 170 children gathered at Puketawhero Park, Rotorua on Saturday for the first of the 2011 NZRL Community Camps. This was a significantly larger turnout than the 80 who had braved wet weather in 2010; however the NZRL Football department had carefully planned the day so the increased numbers were accommodated with ease.

After registrations, all participants had breakfast which included bread and spreads, cereals and sachets to flavour cold drinks, all kindly provided by Goodman Fielder and Nestle. This was a great start to the day and enabled families to learn about the importance of a healthy breakfast, as part of the League 4 Life Healthy Breakfast Eaters programme.

The children were then split into four groups by age and they took part in a rotation of fun skills and games appropriate for their age group, lead by members of the NZRL Football department including Tony Kemp, Dan Floyd and Ruben Wiki. A number of Vodafone Warriors players, in Rotorua for their trial game against the Eels, also took part, with Brett Seymour appearing to really enjoy the experience.

With so many children involved, the Bay of Plenty Referees were there helping with everything from security of the trophies, to the drills sessions and handing out giveaway packs. All the NZRL Coaching and Development Officers, in Rotorua for a Development Conference, were also called on not only help out but also to observe how the camps should run in preparation for their own Zone camp.

Bay of Plenty Rugby League and the NZRL had provided water and sunblock which was much needed by everyone.

After the groups had been to four different stations the younger participants (5 - 8 years) went off to have a BBQ and to receive their giveaway packs, which contain a mouthguard, drink bottle and other goodies.

The older children (9 - 12 years) then took part in Kiwi league tag games refereed by the Bay of Plenty referees. When they had finished they too had a BBQ and received their giveaway bags from Vodafone Warriors, Ruben Wiki and others.

All the children had the chance to see the Rugby League World Cup and the Four Nations Trophy. They had photos with players, got autographs, and many had their bags signed.

While the children were outside having fun, Dan Floyd, NZRL Coaching & Development Manager, was running a Mini-Mod Coaching course for nine adults as they prepared for the season.

Everyone present agreed that it had been a hugely successful day, with many of the children getting a chance to try league for the very first time. NZRL would like to thank everyone who helped on the day and everyone from the Upper Central Zone, especially Jenny Nahu and the Bay of Plenty Rugby League for their assistance in ensuring this was as extremely well organised event.

A further 16 camps are planned for around NZ in the coming months, see here for details.

Referees Active in the Zones

NZRL — Sun, 13 Feb 2011 11:00:00 GMT

On Saturday, 12 February, Bay of Plenty Match Officials gathered in Rotorua to take part in the NZRL Community Roots Camp.

While there they handed out over 200 recruitment brochures, acted as security for the Rugby League World Cup and the Four Nations trophies, then assisted with the running of the fun Skills and Games sessions with the children. They also refereed the Backyard Footy games played by the 9 - 12 year olds.

During the day they helped out with the BBQ and with the distribution of participant packs to the children who'd been at the camp. With 180 children at the rugby league carnival, this was an excellent opportunity to introduce both the children and their parents to the idea that match officials are a crucial component of the game and that it is a positive way to be involved.

They finished the day in a session at which visiting NRL Match Officials updated them on the new guidelines for NZRL match officials who may be involved in the NSW Cup and Toyota Cup competitions. They also heard more about career paths for NRL Match Officials and were able to hear more about NRL refereeing.

On Sunday, 13 February the Northland Referees held a planning session, timetabling a range of activities for the year including their fitness tests, and their involvement with Mini-Mod and Senior Club Coaching days.

There was also planning for their upcoming Community Roots camp (Saturday, 19 February). In order for these to run smoothly the NZRL has clearly defined roles and responsibilities at the camps and these were shared with the local match officials.

In the afternoon Ian Mackintosh, NZRL National Referees Co-Ordinator ran an Introduction Course and followed this with a Level One course. These courses were completed by eight referees.

As part of the NZRL's focus on continuous improvement match officials across NZ will be completing a range of courses during the year.

Coaching & Development Conference

NZRL — Sat, 12 Feb 2011 11:00:00 GMT

Held in Rotorua from 9 - 12 February, the four day Coaching and Development conference brought together nine regional Coaching & Development Officers (CDO's) and the NZRL Football Department for an intensive programme of workshops.

These included sessions on the development of district calendars; an update on the draft coaching structure; training on the new Mini-Mod course, and updates on the preparation and delivery of the Fundamentals and International Games courses; presentations from Zone General Managers about their plans for their respective Zones; a 2010 update - 2011 focus report from Jim Doyle, NZRL CEO; a session from Rodger Thompson, SPARC and a session by Carmen Taplin, NZRL Administration Manager on getting the very best from Leaguenet.

Dan Floyd, NZRL's Coaching and Development Manager said "Getting together like this allows us to start the year with a clear direction. It's very important for the continued growth and development of the game that we keep up to date with best practice and regularly share information and effective systems and processes. It's critical that all Zones are aligned in their planning and that tournaments, camps and the like complement each other and are in line with our National vision."

To ensure all CDO's were well prepared on their return to the Zones, Dan provided all the CDO's with a thumb drive containing a number of resources including templates for planning calendars, courses, school tournaments, camps; contacts lists, and other useful information.

On the final day the CDO's attended the NZRL Rotorua Community Roots camp where they were able to take part in practical sessions alongside the NZRL's Football department, Bay of Plenty Referees, and some Vodafone Warriors players and members of their One Community staff.

Grant Milne, Coaching and Development Officer from Otago said "It was an excellent conference. The openness and professionalism of the NZRL staff and the Zone General Managers was great. The fact that the same message is going out across the whole country is really good. Seeing the Community Camp was helpful, it was really well organised and gives me a clear guide as to what is expected when we have our camp here later in the year."

Counties Manukau Zone GM Required

NZRL — Fri, 11 Feb 2011 11:00:00 GMT

Counties Manukau is one of seven Zones formed as part of the restructure of the domestic game in New Zealand. The Counties Manukau Zone is at the critical stage of recruiting the inaugural Zone General Manager.

Accountable to the Zone Board, the GM will also be responsible to the NZRL CEO for consistent delivery of the national 'Game Plan'. As Zone Boards are primarily responsible for fostering the development of the game, the GM will assist them to develop a Zone Game Plan to support achievement of these national objectives within a regional context.

To provide the level of leadership necessary to be successful in this role, the General Manager will possess the following attributes:

An appreciation of the strategic issues facing sport and the potential for Rugby League to add value to the communities the game serves.
The ability to build and maintain positive working relationships with diverse stakeholder groups including core membership, commercial partners and the wider community.
A commitment to continuous improvement and an organisational culture where accountability to stakeholders is measured by achievement of clearly defined outcomes.
Sound working knowledge of financial reporting and performance management processes in order to provide competent management of Zone operations.
Able to maximise revenue generation opportunities via understanding of the sponsorship and/or funding sectors (marketing experience would be an advantage).
A strong work ethic and willingness to 'roll your sleeves up' to get the job done with limited resources.

This will be a 'hands on' role with the primary objective of developing the game within Counties Manukau. Experience and proven performance as a senior manager will be complimented by a management style that reflects Rugby League's core values of INTEGRITY, RESPECT, LEADERSHIP, COURAGE and PASSION.

New Zealand Rugby League in conjunction with the Zone Board now seeks applications for the GM position. Please forward your application with a covering letter to info@nzrl.co.nz or addressed to 'Careers' c/- PO Box 12 712 Penrose, Auckland.

Full job descriptions can be downloaded here. Applications close 4 March 2011

Rotorua Community Camp this Saturday

NZRL — Wed, 09 Feb 2011 11:00:00 GMT

NZRL Community Roots Camps return in 2011, bigger and better than before. This weekend you'll find us at Puketawhero Park, Vaughans Rd, Te Ngae in Rotorua. Registrations from 9.30am, Skills & Fun Games from 10am and a Rugby League Carnival and backyard footy from 11.30am. All 5 - 12 year olds welcome. The day will finish at 1pm in plenty of time to see the Junior Warriors and Warriors play at the International Stadium.

There'll be a free Coaches Mini Mod accreditation course, you can meet Ruben Wiki, see some of the Vodafone Warriors, have your photo taken with the World Cup & the Four Nations trophy and get some autographs. Loads of giveaways and lots of fun. We hope to see you there.

Referee Takes Another Step Up

NZRL — Tue, 08 Feb 2011 11:00:00 GMT

Cadet Referees graduate and former NRL star Henry Perenara will be one of four referees to take control of Saturday night's Harvey Norman Rugby League All Stars match on the Gold Coast.

Perenara will join Shayne Hayne, Gavin Badger and Ben Cummins as the referees for the match with NRL Referees Coaches Stuart Raper and Bill Harrigan also appointing Paul Holland and Jeff Younis as the touch judges. Tim Mander will be the video referee.

The two-referee system will again be used with the four referees to be interchanged throughout the match.

Referees: Shayne Hayne, Ben Cummins, Gavin Badger, Henry Perenara
Touch Judges: Paul Holland, Jeff Younis
Video Referee: Tim Mander

Henry was the winner of the 2010 Maori Sports Awards Referee of the Year and last year visited NZ on two occasions to speak with young players about the possibility of a career as a match official. He refereed the first Junior Kiwis v Junior Kangaroos test in Wellington at the opening of the Four Nations tournament in October.

Directors Required - Closing Soon

NZRL — Mon, 07 Feb 2011 11:00:00 GMT

Rugby League is a sport for all New Zealanders, played at the grassroots and on the international stage. The sport is "more than just a game" - it is part of the social fabric of our country and has a critical role in developing young men and women in some of our most "at risk" communities. The World Cup and Four Nations winning Kiwis provide an inspiration for the youth of New Zealand.

The NZRL Board comprises seven Directors, with four 'Appointed Director' positions and three 'Elected Director' positions. An independent Appointments Panel manages the Director Recruitment process for 'Appointed' and 'Elected' Directors.

The Appointments Panel is now seeking applications for one Appointed Director position and one Elected Director position. All Board positions are for a term of three years.

The Appointments Panel is charged with ensuring the Board has collective skills and experience in commerce, finance and marketing, and a knowledge of, and experience in, the sport of rugby league. Board members will also need to have effective decision-making skills, well developed relationship-management skills and sound judgement.

The Board will be responsible for ensuring sound governance practices and processes, setting clear goals and measurable targets within the sport of rugby league in New Zealand.

Application forms can be downloaded here. All applications will be treated in strict confidence and must include a CV, covering letter and a completed application form. Applications should be sent to the NZRL CEO, PO Box 12 712, Penrose, Auckland 1642 to be received no later than 5pm on Friday, 11 February 2011.

Counties Manukau & Auckland Directors Update

NZRL — Wed, 26 Jan 2011 11:00:00 GMT

The Counties Manukau Zone held its inaugural Annual General Meeting on Monday 24 January 2011 and announced the four Elected Directors for the Zone Board. Wally Dumper, Cathy Friend, Alan Johnson and Russell Preston were the successful candidates, and we congratulate them. They join Ken Lotu-liga, Trevor Gill and Emile Va'afusuaga, the Appointed Directors, to form the inaugural Zone Board.

The Auckland Zone held its inaugural Annual General Meeting on Monday 24 January, 2011 and announced three of the four Elected Directors for the Zone Board. Evelyn Brooker, Peter Douglas and Mark Wallace were successful, and we congratulate them. They join Sam Sefuiva, Brian Lythe & Luke Gagamoe, the Appointed Directors.

The fourth position resulted in a tie between Tania Brown and Wayne Urquhart. To resolve this, a further election will be held between these two candidates only. The candidate receiving the highest number of votes shall be declared elected. Those eligible to vote have been contacted directly and must have their votes in by 4pm Friday February 11, 2011.

Apply Now - National Competition Positions 2011

NZRL — Sun, 09 Jan 2011 11:00:00 GMT

Applications for the Coaching and Management positions for the 2011 NZRL Competition are now open.

Running from August until mid October 2011 the National Competition offers players at 15s, 17s and Premiers the opportunity to compete at the highest level. We are looking for the best of the best to take this opportunity to showcase their abilities and work with the best of New Zealand's up and coming league talent.

Tony Kemp, NZRL Football Manager says "These positions are a great opportunity for anyone with passion, talent and the required skills and qualifications to become more involved in rugby league development."

"We were very pleased with the calibre of applicants in 2010 and with a number of people having completed the courses offered around the country this year I'm sure we will have an equally high standard in 2011."

Applications should be sent directly to the relevant Zone Managers and must clearly state

a. The position you are applying for i.e. Coach, Manager, Trainer or Selector

b. The team or teams you wish to be considered for i.e. 15s, 17s or Premiers

c. The Zone or Zones you wish to be considered for i.e. Northland, Auckland, Counties Manukau, Upper Central, Mid Central, Wellington and/or South Island.

A full rugby league CV should be submitted, and needs to include all your relevant training and qualifications.

Applications will close on February 10, 2011 when the Zones will create a shortlist, accreditation levels will be checked and interviews will be scheduled with all shortlisted candidates.

It is intended that appointments to all the positions will be made before February 28, 2011.

Send your applications now to:

Northern                     Rob Wakelin            rob@nzrl.co.nz
Auckland                    Pat Carthy               pat@aucklandleague.co.nz
Counties Manukau       C/- Dan Floyd           dan@nzrl.co.nz
Upper Central              Marcus Reynolds      marcus@nzrl.co.nz
Mid Central                Keri Gardiner            keri@nzrl.co.nz
Wellington                  Jason Hemson         jason@wrl.co.nz
South Island               Steve Martin             steve@nzrl.co.nz