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27 June 2024

2023 was one of the best years for rugby league in New Zealand in the last decade, with increased participation almost outshined by an unprecedented growth of popularity and positive narrative surrounding the game. New Zealand Rugby League saw record entries for their National Secondary Schools Tournament (NZSS), which almost doubled in size from 21 teams in 2022, to 38 teams in 2023.

Off the back of this, the 2024 NZRL National Secondary Schools Tournament (NZSS) is lining up to be the biggest year of the Nationals to date.

As one of the most anticipated events on the rugby league calendar, 65 teams are set to be invited to the Nationals across four grades; Boys Premiership, Boys Championship, GirlsChampionship and U15 Boys Carnival.

In 2022 the Girls’ and U15s’ divisions were successfully introduced to the Tournament. In 2023 these two additional divisions returned and NZSS history was made when St. Thomas of Canterbury College became the first non-Auckland and South Island school to win the Boys Premiership in over 20 years.

Interest in the female and girls’ game has significantly grown, with over 18 schools expressing interest in entering the Girls Championship grade this year.

The spike in interest in the Tournament can be attributed to the continued work being carried out nationally, with secondary school competitions taking place in both the North and South Islands.

General Manager of Football & High Performance Motu Tony says, “Our NZSS Tournament continues to grow year on year, and this year’s tournament will be the biggest ever. Our NZSS tournament caters to those wanting to have fun as well as represent their school, and to those seeking to capture the attention of NRL and NRLW clubs.

“Not only will rugby league be played at the tournament, education hubs for wellbeing and injury prevention will also be available to participants”.

Recent NZSS participants both male and female have progressed to high-performance teams and pathways domestically and in Australia.

Sharnyze Pihema who represented Manurewa High School in the inaugural 2022 Girls’ Tournament, went on to captain the 2024 NZRL Ahi Kā Aotearoa national representative team. At the NRL Harvey Norman Women’s Championship in the Gold Coast Pihema was named Player of the Tournament.

From the 2023 Boys’ Premiership Champions St. Thomas of Canterbury College, Bishop Neal, Lennox Tuiloma, Micah Sula, and Isaiah Savea were selected for the One NZ Warriors 2024 Harold Matthews Cup squad who won their NSWRL competition earlier this year.

The 2024 NZSS Tournament will be played in Auckland from 6th – 8th September.

We are pleased to announced that New Zealand Rugby League (NZRL) is now taking Expression of Interest for entries for the 2024 National Secondary Schools Tournament. To register your interest please use the following link: New Zealand Rugby League-New Zealand Rugby League (sporty.co.nz)

The 2024 National Secondary Schools tournament will be held at Bruce Pulman Park, Auckland. The tournament will be spread over three days, from Friday 6th – Sunday 8th September. Schools are to qualify through Zonal and regional events to reach the qualify. Each team entering the National Secondary Schools Tournament must have a referral from their respective Zone contact. The entry fee for all teams and grades will be $150 + gst.

National Secondary Schools Tournament. Grades to include:

Junior / U15 Boys Carnival (Yrs. 9 & 10)

–      Composite schools permitted.

Senior Boys Premiership

Senior Boys Championship

–      Composite schools permitted.

Girls Championship

–      Composite schools permitted.

If you have multiple teams across the grades; Junior and Senior Boys Premiership for example, please complete this form individually for each team entry.

If you do not know of the Regional or Zone qualifying dates, please contact David McMeekan to connect you with local Zone staff.

 

David McMeekan

National Football Operations Manager

david.m@nzrl.co.nz

3 September 2023

 

The 2023 NZRL National Secondary School Tournament did not disappoint, as some of the best rugby league youth from around the country represented their schools over 3 days. Spectators were treated to some exhilarating football, as NZSST veterans alongside new up-and-comers left it all on the field. New champions were crowned across all 4 grades in this history-making year of the NZRL NZSS Tournament. The best of the best were then selected for the NZSS representative squads to play in October.

 

NZRL NZSST 2023 Grand Finals recap:

 

U15s Boys Carnival

Grand Final – St. Paul’s College v Western Heights High School

Final score: St. Paul’s College 26-10

With 2023 being their inaugural year of entering a team in this grade, St. Paul’s College displayed their depth of rugby league talent as their U15 boys impressed all tournament. They opened up the scoring in this final match but Western Heights showed great defensive effort, keeping the score to only 10-4 to St. Paul’s at halftime. In the second half, St. Paul’s proved too strong for the Rotorua side with skilful ball-playing and speed, going on to claim the title of U15s Boys Carnival champions.

 

Boys Championship

Grand Final – Aorere College v Wesley College

Final score: Aorere College 16-12

This battle of South Auckland came down to the wire, with the scoreboard tied up until the last 5 minutes. Aorere were first to score crossing for 2 tries, but the Wesleyans replied with 2 of their own successfully converted, bringing the halftime score to 12-8 in their favour. In the second half, Aorere did well to score but were again unsuccessful in converting, bringing the game to 12-12. An intense half saw many close but unsuccessful attempts at scoring from both sides until Aorere scored the winning try with only 5 to go.

 

Girls Championship

Grand final – Auckland Girls Grammar School v Southern Cross Campus

Final score: Auckland Girls Grammar School 30-12

In this grand final between the two Auckland colleges, Southern Cross put up a valiant effort against the dominant Auckland champions, who entered the tournament finals undefeated. AGGS scored early down their left edge but Southern Cross quickly equalised with a try of their own. AGGS went on to score 3 more in the half and Southern Cross scored once more, bringing it to 18-8 at halftime. Although Southern Cross skilfully scored first in the opening minutes of the second half, AGGS hit back with a vengeance going on to score 3 more tries and comfortably win the game and title of NZSST Girls champions.

 

Boys Premiership 

Grand Final – St. Paul’s College v St. Thomas of Canterbury College

Final score: St. Thomas of Canterbury College 12-6

The final game of the day produced a large turnout of supporters who came down to Bruce Pulman Park to witness this contest for the Boys Premiership title. The young men from Canterbury came firing out of the gates to score first followed quickly by a second. Not to be dominated, St. Paul’s scored one of their own just before the halftime whistle bringing it to 10-6 to the Cantabrians. The second half featured heavy contact, tough carries, and nifty ball-play by both sides however neither were able to score as they both defended their lines fearlessly. A high tackle by St. Paul’s led to a successful St. Thomas penalty kick as the only points scored in the half, with this epic contest ending in a historic win for St. Thomas. The South Island team claimed their first-ever NZSST victory, in their first year of ever making the tournament finals.

 

 

2023 NZRL National Secondary Schools Boys Squad:

 

1. Sio Kali – St. Paul’s College

2. Maretino Kaloudau – St. Thomas of Canterbury College

3. Chelden Hayward – St. Thomas of Canterbury College

4. Jackson Stewart – St. Thomas of Canterbury College

5. Malakai Cama – Rotorua Boys’ High School

6. Quiann Feterika-Mafoe – St. Paul’s College

7. Meihana Pauling – St. Thomas of Canterbury College

8. Malachi Filipo – St. Paul’s College

9. Noah Harmer-Campbell – St. Thomas of Canterbury College

10. Jason Salalilo – St. Thomas of Canterbury College

11. Tepatasi Laumalili – De La Salle College

12. Mikaele Ilaiu – Rotorua Boys’ High School

13. Junior Sikuvea – De La Salle College

14. Sosaia Latu – Otahuhu College

15. Kalani Peyroux-Donaldson – De La Salle College

16. Jeriko Filipi-Talisau – St. Paul’s College

17. Zeke Faga-Ieti – St Thomas of Canterbury College

18. Ezekiel Paulo – St. Thomas of Canterbury College

19. Lennox Tuiloma – St. Thomas of Canterbury College

 

Emerging Player of the Tournament: Phillip Lavakeiaho – Wesley College

Tournament MVP: Sio Kali – St. Paul’s College

 

 

2023 NZRL National Secondary Schools Girls Squad:

 

1. Billie Va’a – St Mary’s College

2. Shafenior Lui – Southern Cross Campus

3. Faith Tavita – Auckland Girls Grammar School

4. Jemma Tonu’u – McAuley High School

5. Shanthie Lui – Southern Cross Campus

6. Paea Uilou – Auckland Girls Grammar School

7. Danii-Nicole Gray – Auckland Girls Grammar School

8. Seriah Palepale – Auckland Girls Grammar School

9. Evelyn Roberts – McAuley High School

10. Indiana Russell-Lia – St Mary’s College

11. Te Raukura Leafe – St Mary’s College

12. Riley Fruean-Otineru – McAuley High School

13. Alianna Tonu’u – McAuley High School

14. Ivana Lauitiiti – McAuley High School

15. Josinah Filisi Tauliiili – Southern Cross Campus

16. Latesha Mitchener – Auckland Girls Grammar School

17. Luca-Bella Ngatuere-Ongley – St Mary’s College

18. Tonga Toutai – Southern Cross Campus

19. Giovanna Suani – Auckland Girls Grammar School

 

Emerging Player of the Tournament: Shakira Lui – Southern Cross Campus

Tournament MVP: Seriah Palepale – Auckland Girls Grammar School

 

For livestreams and results of all NZSST Day 3 games, and all tournament content, visit linktr.ee/nzrlgrassroots

2 September 2023

The much anticipated 2023 NZRL National Secondary School Tournament has been full-on as schools from throughout the country gathered at Bruce Pulman Park, for three days of rugby league action. Day 1 saw some thrilling pool games and Day 2 produced intense semi finals across all 4 grades, with finals set to be played tomorrow.

 

NZSST Day 2 Major Semi Finals recap:

Boys Premiership

Semi Final 1 – St. Thomas of Canterbury College v Southern Cross Campus 

Final score: St. Thomas of Canterbury College 30-6

The Cantabrians showed dominance in the first half of the game, chalking up 4 unanswered tries to put them in the lead 20-0 at halftime. Southern Cross fought hard to stay in the game with Emosi Ravosai crossing the line to put the team on the board, followed by a successful conversion. Jackson Stewart of St. Thomas finished the game with a hat-trick as the team proved too strong for the Aucklanders, booking their ticket to the finals.

 

Semi Final 2 – St. Paul’s College v De La Salle College

Final score: St. Paul’s College 6-0

In a re-match of the Auckland College Premier Boys finals, the two heavyweight rugby league schools battled for a spot in the NZSST finals. The game was a highly physical match-up with players putting their bodies on the line in an intense back-and-forth, all 40 minutes. Ultimately, a first-half try by John Matini successfully converted by Sio Kali was all the difference to put reigning St. Paul’s College, through to the finals.

 

Girls Championship

Semi Final 1 – Auckland Girls Grammar School v Te Kura Kaupapa Māori o Kaikohe

Final score: Auckland Girls Grammar School 32-0

Reigning Auckland championships Auckland Girls Grammar School displayed their skill and strength, keeping the Kaikohe side from scoring. Seriah Palepale finished with a hat-trick, as the Aucklanders comfortably secured their place in the Girls Championship grand finals. 

 

Semi Final 2 – Southern Cross Campus v McAuley High School

Final score: Southern Cross Campus 26-10

This game between the two Auckland girl’s schools featured heavy contact and speed to match, tying the score up to 10-all at halftime. An outstanding second half of rugby league was played by Southern Cross, with Shanthie Lui scoring a double and converting 3 tries as her team claimed the victory.

 

In the Boys Championship grade, Aorere College and Wesley College topped the two pools qualifying them for grade’s grand finals. Also in Pool A, Ngā Kura ā Iwi o Aotearoa Taikura finished with equal total points to Aorere, however, Aorere finished the round robin games with a better points difference. Taikura will instead face Westlake Boys High School in contention for 3rd place.

 

The U15s Boys Carnival grade will feature St. Paul’s College and Western Heights High School from Rotorua going head-to-head for 1st place. Tamaki College finished with equal total points to the Rotorua side but were beaten by points difference. Tamaki will instead see Manurewa High School in the 3rd place final.

 

NZRL NZSST Major Finals – Sunday 3rd September

 

U15s Boys Carnival

Grand Final – St. Paul’s College v Western Heights High School 10:00 am (Pulman Park Field 1)

3rd/4th place final – Tamaki College v Manurewa High School 9:00 am (Pulman Park Field 2)

Boys Championship

Grand Final – Aorere College v Wesley College 11:15 am (Pulman Park Field 1*)

3rd/4th place final – Westlake Boys High School v Ngā Kura ā iwi o Aotearoa Taikura 10:15 am (Pulman Park Field 2)

Girls Championship

Grand final – Auckland Girls Grammar School v Southern Cross Campus 12:30 pm (Pulman Park Field 1*)

3rd/4th place final – McAuley High School v Te Kura Kaupapa Māori o Kaikohe 11:30am (Pulman Park Field 2)

Boys Premiership 

Grand Final – St. Paul’s College v St. Thomas of Canterbury College 1:45 pm (Pulman Park Field 1*

3rd/4th place final – De La Salle College v Southern Cross Campus 11:30 am (Pulman Park Field 5)

 

*live-streamed game on NZ Rugby League youtube.com/playlist

 

For the entire NZSST finals day draw and to keep up with all the tournament action, visit linktr.ee/nzrlgrassroots

 

 

August 9th 2023 

 

Preparations for New Zealand’s most significant grassroots events are now well underway, with a jam-packed calendar throughout September and October that is not to be missed. The next generation of rangatahi will look to make their mark in the rugby league world.

 

National Secondary Schools Tournament

Friday 1 – Sunday 3rd September

Bruce Pulman Park, Auckland 

 

First up on the calendar, is the highly anticipated New Zealand Rugby League (NZRL) National Secondary Schools tournament. 2022 saw this significant event in the rugby league calendar return after a three-year hiatus, with two new grades – the U15 Boys Carnival and the inaugural Girls Championship.

As schools from across the motu converge on Auckland’s Bruce Pulman Park, 2023 brings a fresh look for several tournament regulars. Teams have anticipated the tournament’s return and will be excited to test themselves against the best rugby league talent nationwide.

41 teams across all grades have been invited to attend this year’s tournament, which will span over three days, kicking off on Friday, 1st September, at Bruce Pulman Park. Schools have quailed through zonal and regional events or nomination.

 

National Men’s and Sky Sport Women’s Premiership

Every weekend from Saturday 2nd September – Sunday 1st October 

 

Also kicking off in the first weekend of September, the National Men’s and Sky Sport Women’s Premiership competitions, playing over five weekends, across various host venues nationwide.

The Akarana men’s and women’s teams will look to defend their 2022 titles with the exciting introduction of both the Auckland Vulcans men and women, Otago Whalers men and Wellington Orcas women teams being promoted into the premiership for 2023.

The National Premiership sees the inclusion of the Auckland Vulcans for the first time in both the men’s and women’s competitions. Both teams won their respective National Championship tournaments in 2022, gaining long-sought-after promotion.

With the new promotion in the premiership, Otago has secured a world-class facility in Forsyth Barr Stadium to play their two home games, whilst the Wellington Orcas women’s team looks to make their mark in the women’s premiership after lifting their game in 2022.

 

National Men’s and Women’s Championship

Every weekend from Saturday 2 – Saturday 7th October 

 

The National Men’s and Women’s Championship kicks off with Southland taking on Aoraki at Elles Road in Invercargill on Saturday, 2nd September, in the South Island Men’s Championship. The Championship matches will be played nationwide in a new format over six weekends. The Men’s and Women’s Championships will conclude on Saturday, 7th October, with the North and South Island Champions meeting to be crowned the National Championship winners and for their chance to gain promotion to the Premiership for 2024.

With last year’s tournament champions in both men’s and women’s grades now promoted to the Premiership, the remaining teams will battle it out to find new victors.

 

National Girls Youth Tournament

Sunday 24 – Tuesday 26th September

Owen Delaney Park, Taupo

 

Returning to Taupo, the National Girls Youth Tournament will see talented rugby league wāhine from throughout the country competing for their District and Zones over three days. The inaugural Girls Youth Tournament in 2022 had a spectacle ending with two narrow finals in both the 16s and 18s grades.

This tournament continues to enhance NZ’s female game, with Alexis Tauaneai completing her journey from the inaugural 2022 National Youth Tournament to becoming a part of the St. George Illawarra Dragons NRLW team. Additionally, Taleenza Nelson has secured a Development contract with the Cronulla Sharks. The 2023 tournament will undoubtedly feature wāhine looking to complete the same journey.

 

National Boys Youth Tournament

Wednesday 27 – Friday 29th September

Puketawhero Park, Rotorua

 

Closing off grassroots footy for September is the National Boys Youth Tournament, returning to Rotorua’s Puketawhero Park to be held over three days. This tournament will see the best young tama toa compete across the 16s and 18s grades from both Zone and Districts, including; Northland, Auckland, Akarana, Counties, Waikato, Hauraki, Bay of Plenty, Coastline, Mid Central, Wellington and South Island.

 

NZ 16s & 18s

Monday 23rd October

Bruce Pulman Park, Auckland

 

Rounding off the grassroots football calendar for the year are the NZ 16s and NZ 18s representative games, all to be played on Monday, 23rd October (Labour Day). These games will all be played at Auckland’s Bruce Pulman Park and consist of the best young talent across the motu. Many young players are selected for these New Zealand representative teams from the NZRL National Secondary Schools and Youth Tournaments.

 

NZ 16s 

Aotearoa Whaanui v Auckland Invitational (Girls)

Aotearoa Whaanui v Auckland Invitational (Boys)

 

The 16s age group will feature the Auckland Invitational versus the Aotearoa Whaanui for both boys and girls. The 16s Auckland teams will consist of players from the ARL competition, Region of Origin development programme, and representative teams that include; Akarana, Counties-Manukau, and Auckland. The Aotearoa Whaanui’ Rest of New Zealand’ squads will be selected from Zonal teams that consist of Northland, Upper Central, Mid Central, Wellington, and South Island.

 

NZ 18s

New Zealand Schools v New Zealand Clubs (Girls)

New Zealand Schools v New Zealand Clubs (Boys)

 

For their 18s counterparts, the ‘Clubs vs Schools’ match-up returns, including a girl’s match after the highly successful inaugural game in 2022. NZRL General Manager of Football and High-Performance Motu Tony added;

“A plethora of young talent have found homes in NRL and NRLW clubs from the previous contests, showing a genuine pathway rangatahi can take towards the professional game.

We look forward to seeing more develop and take their game to the next level.”

 

NZRL will release broadcast and streaming information for all the upcoming rugby league action in due course; keep an eye out for more details over the coming weeks to ensure you don’t miss out.

 

May 10, 2023

 

New Zealand Rugby League (NZRL) proudly announces that the anticipated National Secondary Schools tournament is back for 2023.

2022 saw one of the most significant events in the rugby league calendar return after a three-year hiatus, this time with two new grades – the U15 Boys Carnival and the inaugural Girls’ Championship.

Last year’s tournaments were hotly contested as newcomers De La Salle took home the Premiership title for the first time in history. Manurewa High School enjoyed success as their boys’ and girls’ teams took out both the Boys’ Championship and the inaugural Girls Championship.

This year’s competition will spread over three days, kicking off on Friday, 1st September, at Auckland’s Bruce Pulman Park. Schools can qualify through zonal and regional events. Each team entering the National Secondary Schools Tournament must have a referral from their respective zone contact.

If you would like to receive more information, Register interest here: https://www.sporty.co.nz/viewform/198093

 

National Secondary Schools Tournament. Grades to include:

 

Junior / U15 Boys Carnival

–      Up to 8 teams

–      Composite schools permitted.

 

Senior Boys Premiership

–      Up to 8 teams

 

Senior Boys Championship

–      Up to 8 teams

–      Composite schools permitted.

 

Girls Championship

–      Up to 16 teams

–      Composite schools permitted.

19 October 2022

This weekend brings us the return of NZRL’s Clubs vs Schools fixture and the introduction of the 16’s Auckland Invitational vs Aotearoa Whaanui representative matchups.

The Labour weekend brings us the first ever 16’s Auckland Invitational vs Aotearoa Whaanui representative game, where the best talent from across the motu face Auckland’s top 17.

Both sides claim considerable talent across their respective squads in a game that sees the young future stars of the game. The Wellington cohort of Billie Va’a, Jayda Maniapoto and Trinity Tauaneai headline an exciting and balanced Aotearoa Whaanui, which has strike all across the park.

Finals MVP Josinah Filisi Tauiliili leads the Auckland Invitational side out after an outstanding performance in the 16’s grand final. She is joined by teammate Danii-Nicole Gray and the exciting Tayla-Benet Masoe, who played at the back for the Auckland Vulcans.

The 16s Auckland Invitational is headlined by Akarana Falcon and Youth Tournament MVP Kaawyn Patterson. A team with strike all over, centre Taipari Wikitera and winger Ezekiel Tavita looked dangerous with every touch. Aotearoa Whaanui is one dominated by a solid Southern Scorpions side. Exciting talent Ezekiel Faga’ieti leads the Aotearoa side, whilst Wellington Orca Maui Winitana-Patelesio directs them around the park.

The 16s Auckland Invitation is headlined by Akarana Falcon and Youth Tournament MVP Kaawyn Patterson. A team that possesses strike across the park, centre Taipari Wikitera and winger Ezekiel Tavita were electric for their sides in the Youth Tournament. The Aotearoa Whaanui outfit is one dominated by the South Island Scorpions. Exciting young talent Ezekiel Fanga’ieti leads the Southern side, whilst Wellington Orca Maui Winitana-Patelesio directs them around the park.

Starting in 2020, the NZRL Clubs vs Schools clash features the best 18s talent Aotearoa offers. Although it was unable to take place in 2021 due to covid-19, it has already seen many of its participants go on to sign with NRL Clubs. Players such as Sam McIntyre (Gold Coast Titans), Daeon Amituanai (Penrith Panthers) and Josiah Karapani (South Sydney Rabbitohs) all found homes in the Telstra Premiership after playing in this match.

The 2022 game will feature an inaugural girl’s clash displaying the depth of the women’s game. NZRL Secondary Schools MVP Sharnyze Pihema headlines the match with Seriah Palepale and Giovanna Suani, also ones to watch for the Schools. The Clubs squad is led by Youth Tournament MVP Tamisha Tulua and Upper Central’s Alexis Tauaneai, who were electric in the girl’s competition.

Secondary Schools and Youth tournament MVPs Wasaike Salabiau and Ben Peni head the boys game that features top talent littered through the sides. South Island’s Oliver Lawry and St Paul’s Sio Kali also show the depth of ability in this matchup.

Squads can be subject to change due to injury*

All games are free to attend and live on Sky Sport!

 

SQUADS

 

16s AUCKLAND INVITATIONAL  VS AOTEAROA WHAANUI

Auckland Invitational 16 Girls versus Rest of Aotearoa 16 Girls; Sunday 23 October, 12 pm. North Harbour Stadium

AOTEAROA WHAANUI 16 GIRLS

  1. Billie Va’a (Wellington Orcas)
  2. Manaia Blake (Mid Central Vipers)
  3. Arlia Maccarthy (Northern Swords)
  4. Kayshana Rapana-Phillips (South Island Scorpions)
  5. Jayda Maniapoto (Wellington Orcas)
  6. Miria Faulkner – Luke (Northern Swords)
  7. Lialanie Muamua (South Island Scorpions)
  8. Molly Byford (Upper Central Stallions)
  9. Riana Le’afa-Paki (Wellington Orcas)
  10. Te Ngaroahiahi Rimoni (Wellington Orcas)
  11. Luca-Bella Ngatuere-Ongley (Wellington Orcas)
  12. Te Raukura Leafe (Wellington Orcas)
  13. Trinity Tauaneai (Wellington Orcas)
  14. Indiana Ronnie Russell-Lia (Wellington Orcas)
  15. Danica Talitonu (Mid Central Vipers)
  16. Tyali Raihe (Upper Central Stallions)
  17. Olive Connolly (South Island Scorpions)
  18. Bailey Rae Edwards (Northern Swords)

 

AUCKLAND INVITATIONAL 16 GIRLS

  1. Tayla-Benet Masoe (Auckland Vulcans)
  2. Tiare-Anne Leauga (Akarana Falcons)
  3. Elizabeth Ngahe (Auckland Vulcans)
  4. Milahn Ieremia (Akarana Falcons)
  5. Tia’ane Tavita Fesolai (Akarana Falcons)
  6. Riley Pasese (Akarana Falcons)
  7. Danii-Nicole Gray (Counties Manukau Stingrays)
  8. Josinah Filisi Tauiliili (Counties Manukau Stingrays)
  9. Mele Feaomoengalu (Akarana Falcons)
  10. Mercedez Lisone siaea (Counties Manukau Stingrays)
  11. Leaony Macdonald Tuimauga (Counties Manukau Stingrays)
  12. Maeya Talamaivao (Akarana Falcons)
  13. Ashlee Matapo (Akarana Falcons)
  14. Mary Jane Taito (Counties Manukau Stingrays)
  15. Ivana Lauitiiti (Counties Manukau Stingrays)
  16. Monica Ben (Auckland Vulcans)
  17. Fualaau Poutoa (Auckland Vulcans)
  18. Mayann Ioane (Akarana Falcons)

 

18S CLUBS V SCHOOLS

New Zealand Schools Girls versus New Zealand Clubs Girls; Sunday 23 October, 2 pm. North Harbour Stadium

18 GIRLS NZ CLUBS SQUAD:

  1. Tamisha Tulua (Counties Manukau Stingrays)
  2. Summer Van Gelder (Akarana Falcons)
  3. Paris Pickering(Akarana Falcons)
  4. Henillietta Lokotui (Counties Manukau Stingrays)
  5. Lily Newton (Auckland Vulcans)
  6. Milahn Situa (Auckland Vulcans)
  7. Tiana Thomson (Counties Manukau Stingrays)
  8. Kimoana Niupalau (Upper Central Stallions)
  9. Monica Samita (Akarana Falcons)
  10. Tafao Fa’aeaina Asaua (Counties Manukau Stingrays)
  11. Tatiana Finau (Akarana Falcons)
  12. Claudia Finau (Akarana Falcons)
  13. Alexis Tauaneai (Upper Central Stallions)
  14. Ronise Matini (Akarana Falcons)
  15. Taleenza Nelson (Counties Manukau Stingrays)
  16. Theresa Nasilai (Auckland Vulcans)
  17. Alianna Tonu’u (Counties Manukau Stingrays)
  18. Kokako Raki (Upper Central Stallions)
  19. Kyla Lynch Brown (South Island Scorpions)

 

 

18 GIRLS NZ SCHOOLS SQUAD:

  1. Braxton Sorensen-McGee (Auckland Girls Grammar School)
  2. Violet Hiku (Manurewa High School)
  3. Giovanna Suani (Auckland Girls Grammar School)
  4. Kingslee Hohaia (Manurewa High School)
  5. Faith Tavita (Auckland Girls Grammar School)
  6. Sharnyze Pihema (Manurewa High School)
  7. Caitlyn-Jain Bushell (Auckland Girls Grammar School)
  8. Lose Kuli (Auckland Girls Grammar School)
  9. Chevy Brough (Manurewa High School)
  10. Cleo Sauaga (Auckland Girls Grammar School)
  11. Seriah Palepale (Auckland Girls Grammar School)
  12. June Westerlund (Manurewa High School)
  13. Paea Uiloa (Auckland Girls Grammar School)
  14. Jonesha Katipa-Blakelock (Manurewa High School)
  15. Latesha Mitchener (Auckland Girls Grammar School)
  16. Mia Jones (Auckland Girls Grammar School)
  17. Shanthie Lui (Southern Cross Campus)
  18. Vienna Lupe Alapae (Southern Cross Campus)
  19. Saylor Maletino (Manurewa High School)

 

Auckland Invitational Boys 16s versus Aotearoa Whaanui Boys 16s; Monday 24 October, 2 pm. North Harbour Stadium

SQUADS

16s AUCKLAND INVITATIONAL VS AOTEAROA WHAANUI

AOTEAROA WHAANUI 16 BOYS

  1. Meihana Pauling (South Island Scorpions)
  2. Xavier Lynch (South Island Scorpions)
  3. Chelden Hayward (South Island Scorpions)
  4. Jackson Stewart (South Island Scorpions)
  5. Genesis Sherlock (South Island Scorpions)
  6. Eli Bijl-Kakoi (South Island Scorpions)
  7. Maui Winitana-Patelesio (Wellington Orcas)
  8. Ezekiel Fanga’ieti (South Island Scorpions)
  9. Mangaroa Mark (Upper Central Stallions)
  10. Jake Rabarts (Upper Central Stallions)
  11. Ezekiel Paulo (South Island Scorpions)
  12. Sosaia Alatini (South Island Scorpions)
  13. Marley Igasan (Upper Central Stallions)
  14. Kyan Rosie (South Island Scorpions)
  15. Reihana Timms (Upper Central Stallions)
  16. Toby Gibson (South Island Scorpions)
  17. Adam Lawrence (Upper Central Stallions)
  18. Ryder Crosswell (Upper Central Stallions)

 

AUCKLAND INVITATIONAL 16 BOYS

  1. Ernie Mahu-Delamere [Counties Manukau Stingrays]
  2. Vitaliano-Roache [Counties Manukau Stingrays]
  3. Taipari Wikitera [Akarana Falcons]
  4. Sosaia Antony Fatani Latu [Counties Manukau Stingrays]
  5. Ezekiel Tavita [Auckland Vulcans]
  6. Tyrone Hurt-Pickering [Akarana Falcons]
  7. Haami Loza [Counties Manukau Stingrays]
  8. Noah Hetutu-Davis [Counties Manukau Stingrays]
  9. Kaawyn Patterson [Akarana Falcons]
  10. Joshua Totara Kopua [Counties Manukau Stingrays]
  11. Te Paeroa Wi-Neera [Akarana Falcons]
  12. Dezman Laban [Akarana Falcons]
  13. Augustino Filipo [Counties Manukau Stingrays]
  14. Austyn Ah Toon-Hotene [Counties Manukau Stingrays]
  15. Joey Upoko [Akarana Falcons]
  16. Kanaan Talia Magele [Akarana Falcons]
  17. Eteuate Leilua [Counties Manukau Stingrays]
  18. Compton Purcell [Akarana Falcons]

 

18S CLUBS V SCHOOLS

New Zealand Schools Boys versus New Zealand Clubs Boys; Monday 24 October, 4 pm. North Harbour Stadium

 

18 BOYS NZ CLUBS SQUAD:

  1. Kyan Alo [Akarana Falcons]
  2. Raphael Sio [Akarana Falcons]
  3. Leka Halasima [Auckland Vulcans]
  4. Kayliss – Jess Fatialofa [Counties Manukau Stingrays]
  5. Jarome Falemoe [Counties Manukau Stingrays]
  6. Phranklyn Mano-Le-Mamea [Counties Manukau Stingrays]
  7. Afaese Fa’avae [Wellington Orcas]
  8. Ben Peni [Counties Manukau Stingrays]
  9. Makaia Tafua [South Island Scorpions]
  10. Jordan Chapman [Wellington Orcas]
  11. Devante Mihinui [Auckland Vulcans]
  12. Te Kaio Cranwell [South Island Scorpions]
  13. Tanner Stowers Smith [South Island Scorpions]
  14. Khalan Clyde [Akarana Falcons]
  15. Bob Iosefo [Auckland Vulcans]
  16. Francis Tuimauga [Counties Manukau Stingrays]
  17. Samuela Vakadula [Mid Central Vipers]
  18. Alvin Chong Nee [Counties Manukau Stingrays]
  19. Sitana Loamanu [Auckland Vulcans]

 

18 BOYS NZ SCHOOLS SQUAD:

  1. Ngaheke Nepata (St Thomas of Canterbury)
  2. Malakai Cama (Rotorua Boys High School)
  3. Sio Kali (St Pauls College)
  4. Keisaia Su’a (St Pauls College)
  5. Waisake Salabiau (Rotorua Boys High School)
  6. William Piliu (St Pauls College)
  7. Oliver Lawry (St Thomas of Canterbury)
  8. Lamonye Matu (Southern Cross Campus)
  9. Malachi Tony (De La Salle College)
  10. Sione Tupou (Rotorua Boys High School)
  11. Alekolasimi Jones (St Pauls College)
  12. Jason Salalilo (St Thomas of Canterbury)
  13. Rodney Tuipolotu – Vea (De La Salle College)
  14. Allan Talataina-Malama (De La Salle College)
  15. Elijah Salesa Leaumoana (Southern Cross Campus)
  16. Zachariah Stephenson (St Pauls College)
  17. Noah Harmer – Campbell (St Thomas of Canterbury)
  18. Cooper Te Hau (St Thomas of Canterbury)
  19. Maraki Aumua (Rotorua Boys High School)

NZRL would like to acknowledge the selection of Leti Jeff Samuela (De La Salle College) who, after an awesome Secondary Schools tournament was named in the NZ Schools team but has unfortunately been to withdraw due to injury.

 

The NZRL Secondary Schools finals saw South Auckland’s De La Salle College crowned as Aotearoa’s champions, convincingly defeating Rotorua Boys 42-6. De La Salle raced to an early lead through left centre Kaylise Fatialofa, who scored two quick tries in the opening minutes. After finding success on the left edge, La Salle kept up the pressure which resulted in Rodney Tuipulotu-Vea scoring a double for himself as La Salle started to pile on the points. In the second stanza, the right edge of Rotorua Boys led to points as MJ Sa’olele Tavae, and Haami Herbert-Loza found success down that channel. A late consolation try for Rotorua Boys saw them on the score sheet as De La Salle scored 42-6 winners.

 

DE LA SALLE 42

TRIES: Haami HERBERT-LOZA, MJ SA’OLELE TAVAE x2, Kaylise FATIALOFA x2, Rodney TUIPULOTU-VEA x2, Jeshua MAA-NELSON

GOALS: Phranklyn MANO LEMAMEA

 

ROTORUA BOYS 6

TRIES: Darryl WALKER

GOALS: Maraki AUMUA

 

MVP – Kaylise FATIALOFA

 

In the Girls Championship, Auckland Girls Grammar and Manurewa played out a nail-biter, with the South Auckland school holding on to win 8-4. Tries from competition MVP Sharnyze Pihema and Team of the Tournament second rower June Westerland allowed Manurewa to get out to an 8-0 lead that they never relinquished. Seriah Palepale scored for Auckland Girls to make it a game in the second half, but the Manurewa outfit held on to secure the Championship Title.

 

MANUREWA HIGH SCHOOL 8

TRIES: Sharnyze PIHEMA, June WESTERLAND

GOALS:

 

AUCKLAND GIRLS GRAMMAR 4

TRIES: Seriah PALEPALE

GOALS:

 

MVP – June WESTERLAND

 

The Boys Championship saw a rematch of yesterday’s fixture as Manurewa high school took on Te Whanau a Noa. The Composite side started quickly out of the blocks but their inability to turn pressure into points returned to haunt them. Two quick tries from the South Auckland school saw them go up 10-0 towards the mid-point of the first half. The second half saw much of the same as Manurewa were first to score and never let up their advantage, taking out the competition 18 points to four.

 

MANUREWA HIGH SCHOOL 18

TRIES: Colwyn KAUMAVAE, Frankie PAYNE, Padilla LEMOE, Tiu LEILUA TAMALEAOA

GOALS: Leon RICHARD x1

 

TE WHANAU A NOA 4

TRIES: Callum WARD

GOALS:

 

MVP – Christian AUVAA

3 September 2022 

Rotorua Boys Waisake Salabiau and Manurewa’s Sharnyze Pihema spear head the secondary school team of the tournaments for 2022.

A standout in each game for the Rotorua side, Salabiau has been instrumental in his side’s journey to the Premiership final. Tall and quick with nimble feet, the Fijian winger has been a handful for any side he has come up against.

Manurewa half Sharnyze Pihema has taken the competition by storm throughout the week. The running five-eight is tall and robust with deft footwork, which she uses to damage defensive lines. Pihema is not only a wicked talent but is a leader for a Manurewa side looking to capture the Girls Championship title.

Waisake Salabiau is joined by an extremely talented pool of players, including his opposite wing Malakai Cama, St Pauls fullback Sio Kali, St Thomas and South Island 20s half Oliver Lawry, second-rower Rodney Tuipuloto-Vea from De La Salle and Southern Cross’ Elijah Salesa Leaumoana.

The Girls Championship side in 2022 has been dominated by finalists Manurewa High and Auckland Girl’s Grammar. AGGS fullback Braxton Sorensen-McGee is joined by the emerging talent award winner and teammate Giovanni Suani, while Southern Cross’ Shanthie Lui enters the side as the only player not from AGGS or Manurewa.

 

Congratulations to the following selected for the  2022 NZRL Secondary Schools Tournament Teams.

2022 NZRL National Secondary Schools Boys Tournament Team

 

  1. Ngaheke Nepata (St Thomas)
  2. Malakai Cama (Rotorua Boys)
  3. Sio Kali (St Pauls)
  4. Keisaia Su’a (St Pauls)
  5. Waisake Salabiau (Rotorua Boys)
  6. William Piliu (St Pauls)
  7. Oliver Lawry (St Thomas)
  8. Lamonye Matu (Southern Cross)
  9. Malachi Tony (De La Salle)
  10. Sione Tupou (Rotorua Boys)
  11. Alekolasimi Jones (St Pauls)
  12. Rodney Tuipulotu – Vea (De La Salle)
  13. Elijah Salesa Leaumoana (Southern Cross)
  1. Zackariah Stephenson (St Pauls)
  2. Ieti Jeff Samuelu (De La Salle)
  3. Kaylise Fatialofa (De La Salle)
  4. Noah Harmer – Campbell (St Thomas)

*Additional inclusions for NZ Schools V NZ Clubs fixture

  1. Cooper Te Hau (St Thomas)
  2. Maraki Aumua (Rotorua Boys)

 

2022 NZRL National Secondary Schools Girls Tournament Team

 

  1. Braxton Sorensen-McGee (AGGS)
  2. Violet Hiku (Manurewa)
  3. Giovanna Suani (AGGS)
  4. Kingslee Hohaia (Manurewa)
  5. Faith Tavita (AGGS)
  6. Sharnyze Pihema (Manurewa)
  7. Caitlyn-Jain Bushell (AGGS)
  8. Lose Kuli (AGGS)
  9. Chevy Brough (Manurewa)
  10. Cleo Sauaga (AGGS)
  11. Seriah Palepale (AGGS)
  12. June Westerlund (Manurewa)
  13. Paea Uilou (AGGS)
  1. Jonesha Katipa-Blakelock (Manurewa)
  2. Latesha Mitchener (AGGS)
  3. Mia Jones (AGGS)
  4.  Shanthie Lui (Southern Cross)

 

*Additional inclusions for NZ Schools V NZ Clubs fixture

  1. Vienna Lupe Alapae (Southern Cross)
  2. Saylor Maletino (Manurewa)