15 July 2025

Rugby league has the ability to transform lives. That’s why we’re always looking at ways we can break down barriers and give every kid the chance to participate and play the game we all love. 

Thanks to our long-standing partner Mainstream, and with the help and support of Overland Footwear, we’re proud to be delivering over 1,000 pairs of boots directly to our communities and clubs this year. These boots will head straight to our tamariki, ensuring more young players have the gear they need to step onto the field with confidence, pride and purpose. 

Through Mainstream’s generosity, teams like those at Te Urewera Stags Rugby League can continue their work in helping grow rugby league in their community. The Stags re-established themselves just last year after being dissolved nearly 30 years ago. 

“For our whānau and wider community, this is more than just a game. Rugby league has become a healing light, a positive force, and a means for connection,” said Teaotuhirangi Merriman, Team Admin for the Stags.  

“As a club, we have worked tirelessly throughout the season, pulling together whatever resources we could to ensure our tamariki had the best chance to shine.  

Mainstream has gone above and beyond in providing the boots, embodying the Kiwi Way and showcasing our aligned values even further. 

Greg Haliday, Managing Director of Mainstream, said “Being a Kiwi company many of our own team have benefited from the positive aspects of playing sports as we grew up. Not only from the obvious physical and mental benefits but also from being part of a team and club and thereby supporting our local communities. 

“We want kids these days to also enjoy these opportunities and strongly feel that financial constraints should not be a barrier to playing sport. 

“And who knows; maybe one of these days someone we’ve helped kick off their career will be a future star in the NRL or even a Kiwi or Kiwi Fern!” 

Boots have already started to head to clubs across Aotearoa. This includes the Whaingāroa Whai Rugby League U12s team, with manager Ciemeil Milliken, expressing her gratitude.  

“I also just want to send a big mihi… Sometimes the affordability for a pair of boots is all that’s stopping our tamariki playing and they could be the best players we’ve ever seen! Thank you for offering more children a chance to play rugby league.”