Kiwi #810 Ken Maumalo dropped in to his former college, Southern Cross Campus, today ahead of NCEA exams to inspire current students to push their boundaries.
While the Kiwis are gearing up for their Trans-Tasman clash against the Kangaroos on 13 October at Mt Smart, the students are also preparing for their annual match-up, NCEA examinations.
Southern Cross Campus students achieving highly in all areas of their school life, also exhibiting the values of respect, responsibility, relationships and resilience, were rewarded with tickets to watch their idols play in the Trans-Tasman Showdown. These lucky students will get the chance to watch the Kiwis, Kiwi Ferns and Junior Kiwis face-off against their Australian rivals on home soil for the first time since 2014.
In conjunction with New Zealand Rugby League’s ‘More than just a game’ philosophy which reinforces the importance of education, wellbeing and learning opportunities, NZRL Chief Executive Officer Greg Peters was delighted to see the surprise on the faces of students who had been rewarded for their outstanding achievements in the lead-up to their NCEA examinations.
“It’s been fantastic to get out and about in the community with Ken to not only celebrate our Trans-Tasman Triple-Header coming up on 13 October, but to recognise the efforts of these students at a school we know is so passionate about rugby league,”
“New Zealand Rugby League believes that Kiwi players who perform on the field should also be given the tools to thrive off the field, in all areas of their lives including their wellbeing and educational endeavours.
“Our Kiwis players also really enjoy getting out into the community, especially in amongst those where they grew up so today’s event was extra special for all involved,” Peters said.
Upon presenting the school with a signed Kiwis jersey which would be the first to go up in their new gymnasium, Maumalo reflected on his journey from his days at the school, to achieving his dream of wearing the black and white Kiwis jumper.
“It’s always a pleasure to come back to my old stomping ground to share my story. The school values of respect, responsibility, relationships and resilience really are important in pursuing your dreams and I’m really excited that these deserving students will be able to come and see my dreams play out at Mt Smart Stadium on 13 October,” he said.
To buy tickets for the Trans-Tasman Showdown, click the Ticketek link here. Adult ticket prices start from $35.
Saturday, 13 October
Mt Smart Stadium, Auckland
Junior Kiwis v Junior Kangaroos 3.05pm
Kiwi Ferns v Jillaroos 5.15pm
Kiwis v Kangaroos 7.45pm
