BOPRU News

STEAMERS FACE SEASON DEFINING MATCH AT BAYPARK

Wed, 08 Sep 2010 12:56:39 +0100

Media Release 7 September 2010

The Bay of Plenty Steamers ITM CUP match-up with Manawatu at Baypark Stadium, Mount Maunganui on Thursday (9 September 2010) - is shaping up as the game that could define the Steamer season.

A place in the top seven, that will contest the top echelon of the ITM CUP next season. is still within the grasp of the Steamers. However to keep their aspirations alive, the Bay of Plenty team need to deal to the Manawatu Turbos on Thursday evening.

Seven days ago many would have said that Manawatu were there for the taking at Baypark – however they showed last weekend when they dismantled Wellington, that they are a team not to be taken lightly.

With Steamers spirits on a high, after the adversities that the team weathered in Christchurch last weekend, the key to a Blue and Gold victory will be taking the game to Manawatu from the opening whistle.

A number of niggling injuries have seen several changes in the Steamers starting line-up. Sam Cane, who was playing for Reporoa College twelve months ago, has been selected in the starting fifteen. The 2009 New Zealand Secondary Schools representative, has untapped potential and will relish the opportunity to start the match.

Another who player who can be expected to step up to the mark is Cory Aporo, who will start in the number 13 jersey. A veteran of forty plus games for the Steamers, Aporo will bring plenty of experience to the Bay of Plenty backline

The Bay of Plenty Rugby Union is predicting the biggest home crowd of the season, to be at Baypark to urge on “our Team” on Thursday evening. With a solid band of Manawatu supporters expected to also be on hand, the scene is set for a noisy vocal battle between two groups of passionate fans.

Bay of Plenty Steamers v Manawatu @ Baypark, Mount Maunganui 9 September 2010 kickoff 7.35pm.

Joe Savage 2 Daniel Perrin 3 Tristan Moran 4 Aiden Kuka 5 Culum Retallick 6 Tanerau Latimer 7 Sam Cane 8 Colin Bourke (captain) 9 Chad Tuoro, 10 Mike Delany 11 Jason Hona 12 Grant McQuoid 13 Cory Aporo 14 Lelia Masaga/Ben Smith 15 Toby Arnold.
Reserves: Simon Chisholm, James McGougan, Luke Katene, Josh Hohneck, Phil Burleigh, Dan Waenga, Ben Smith/Nick McCashin

For Further Information Contact
Ross Everiss Bay of Plenty Steamers Manager
0274 487 013

6 SEPTEMBER - STEAMERS UPDATE

Mon, 06 Sep 2010 12:50:25 +0100

Media Release 6 September 2010

Few in the Steamers squad that played Canterbury last Friday evening, are unlikely to forget the early morning wake-up call as the earthquake struck the Canterbury region.

Safely back in the Bay of Plenty, the Steamers are now firmly focused on Thursday (9 September 2010) evening ITM Cup game against Manawatu at Baypark, Mount Maunganui.

In front of an expected large home crowd of Blue and Gold supporters, the Steamers will be seeking to post a decisive victory against the Manawatu side. While the Bay side grabbed a win last season in Palmerston North, they just scraped home 28-27.

Mike Delany has quickly made his mark on the Steamers points tally, posting 18 points in just two games courtesy of four penalty goals and three conversions.

Three Steamers now have their initial ITM CUP game in the Blue and Gold colours under their belt, after taking to the field in Christchurch. Hooker Daniel Perrin started the game, with Tristan Moran and Luke Katene coming off the bench.

ITM Cup Information

Bay of Plenty v Manawatu (1951 – 2009)
Played 27
BOP Steamers 16 Manawatu 9 Drawn 2
Last Season (2009) BOP Steamers 28 Manawatu 27

BOP Steamers Points Scorers 2010

Try Scorers
Four - Lelia Masaga
Two - Colin Bourke
One - Tanerau Latimer, Taniela Moa, Dan Waenga, Chad Tuoro, Ben Smith, Phil Burleigh, Lance MacDonald, Luke Braid.

Total Points
20 Lelia Masaga (4 tries)
18 Mike Delany (3 cons, 4 pen)
16 Dan Waenga (try, 3 pen & con)
13 Phil Burleigh (try, 4 con)
10 Colin Bourke (2 tries)
5 (1 try) Tanerau Latimer, Taniela Moa, Chad Tuoro, Ben Smith, Phil Burleigh, Lance MacDonald, Luke Braid.

2010 BOP Steamers ITM Cup Schedule

31 July (Saturday) Waikato 13 BOP Steamers 10
6 August (Friday) BOP Steamers 30 Hawkes Bay 11
14 August (Saturday) Auckland 11 BOP Steamers 6
20 August (Friday) Taranaki 24 BOP Steamers 15
29 August (Sunday) BOP Steamers 39 North Harbour 29
3 September (Friday) Canterbury 28 BOP Steamers 9
9 September (Thursday) v Manawatu @ Baypark, Mount Maunganui – 7.35pm
19 September (Sunday) v Counties Manukau @ Baypark, Mount Maunganui – 4.35pm
24 September (Friday) v Otago @ Rotorua International Stadium – 7.35pm
30 September (Thursday) v Wellington @ Westpac Stadium, Wellington – 7.35pm
10 October (Sunday) v Tasman @ Lansdowne Park, Blenheim – 4.35pm
16 October (Saturday) v Southland @ Baypark, Mount Maunganui – 2.35pm
21 October (Thursday) v Northland @ Northland Events Centre, Whangarei – 7.35pm

For Further Information Contact
Ross Everiss Bay of Plenty Steamers Manager
0274 487 013

TRADE IN YOUR OLD STEAMERS JERSEY AND GET A BRAND NEW 2010 STEAMERS JERSEY AT COST PRICE

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 09:26:41 +0100

SUPPORT YOUR TEAM AND GET THE SUNDAY STAR TIMES

Thu, 12 Aug 2010 15:21:25 +0100

BAY OF PLENTY STEAMERS TO PLAY AT BAYPARK FOR THE FIRST TIME THIS SEASON

Thu, 12 Aug 2010 14:39:12 +0100

Media Release 11 August 2010

Round three of the 2010 ITM Cup brings the first Bay of Plenty Steamers home game - with a match-up this Saturday (14 August 2010) with long time rivals Auckland, at Baypark Mount Maunganui.

The first Steamers outing at home in the ITM Cup this season, is likely to bring a large band of passionate Steamers supporters, decked out in blue and gold.

Steamers manager Ross Everiss said “The Steamers are pretty excited to be playing at home in the ITM Cup for the first time this year”. “The team is looking forward to the challenge that Auckland brings, and are determined to rise to the occasion with a victory at home”.

“Good weather should bring a large crowd of parochial Steamers fans to Baypark, who will give plenty of vocal support to the Blue and Gold team”. “In the past the Steamers have risen to the occasion in front of their multitude of fans, with Saturday likely to be no different,” said Ross.

Head Coach Sean Horan has gone for a largely unchanged team, with just a couple of positional and starting changes. All Black Lelia Masaga, who grabbed a try off the bench against Hawkes Bay last week, will start in the number 14 jersey.

Luke Braid returns to the starting fifteen in the loose forwards, and along with Tanerau Latimer and Colin Bourke should provide plenty of headaches for Auckland.

Steamers utility Phil Burleigh has earned the first five starting role, while Lance Macdonald will change wings. A notable addition to the reserves is the return of Ben Smith who is another that can play in several different positions in the backline.

Bay of Plenty Steamers v Auckland 14 August 2010 – kick-off 2.35pm

1 Josh Hohneck 2 John Pareanga 3 James McGougan 4 Luke Andrews 5 Culum Retallick 6 Luke Braid 7 Tanerau Latimer 8 Colin Bourke (captain) 9 Taniela Moa 10 Phil Burleigh 11 Lance MacDonald 12 Grant McQuoid 13 Brett Mather 14 Lelia Masaga 15 Toby Arnold.
Reserves: Simon Chisholm, Joe Savage/Tristan Moran, Aiden Kuka, Sam Cane/Solomon King, Chad Tuoro, Dan Waenga, Ben Smith.

For Further Information Contact
Ross Everiss Bay of Plenty Steamers Manager
0274 487 013

09 AUGUST STEAMERS UPDATE

Mon, 09 Aug 2010 17:23:51 +0100

Media Release 9 August 2010

For the first time in the 2010 ITM Cup, the Bay of Plenty Steamers will have the home ground advantage, when they play Auckland at Baypark, Mount Maunganui on Saturday (14 August 2010) afternoon.

There are few more passionate bands of provincial rugby supporters in New Zealand, than those who cheer and barrack for the Steamers at home. Decked out in blue and gold the legions of fans have been “Bay Proud” for 99 years.

Representative games with Auckland date back to 1912, just one year after the formation of the Bay of Plenty Rugby Union. While Auckland have won the majority of the encounters between the two unions – few in the Bay of Plenty will forget 2004 when the Steamers took the Ranfurly Shield home from Eden Park.

There were two significant milestones set in the game with Hawkes Bay. Inspirational skipper Colin Bourke played his 70th game in Blue and Gold uniform, with Culum Retallick reaching the 40 game mark.

ITM Cup Information

Bay of Plenty v Auckland
Played 55
Auckland 44 BOP Steamers 11
Last Season: Auckland 29 BOP Steamers 14

BOP Steamers Points Scorers 2010
Try Scorers
One - Tanerau Latimer, Taniela Moa, Lelia Masaga, Dan Waenga, Colin Bourke, Chad Tuoro
Total Points
5 (1 try) Tanerau Latimer, Taniela Moa, Lelia Masaga, Dan Waenga, Colin Bourke, Chad Tuoro
5 Dan Waenga (pen & con)
4 Phil Burleigh (2 con)

2010 BOP Steamers ITM Cup Schedule

31 July (Saturday) Waikato 13 BOP Steamers 10
6 August (Friday) BOP Steamers 30 Hawkes Bay 11
14 August (Saturday) v Auckland @ Baypark, Mount Maunganui – 2.35pm
20 August (Friday) v Taranaki @ Yarrow Stadium, New Plymouth – 7.35
29 August (Sunday) v North Harbour @Rotorua International Stadium – 4.35pm
3 September (Friday) v Canterbury @ AMI Stadium, Christchurch – 7.35pm
9 September (Thursday) v Manawatu @ Baypark, Mount Maunganui – 7.35pm
19 September (Sunday) v Counties Manukau @ Baypark, Mount Maunganui – 4.35pm
24 September (Friday) v Otago @ Rotorua International Stadium – 7.35pm
30 September (Thursday) v Wellington @ Westpac Stadium, Wellington – 7.35pm
10 October (Sunday) v Tasman @ Lansdowne Park, Blenheim – 4.35pm
16 October (Saturday) v Southland @ Baypark, Mount Maunganui – 2.35pm
21 October (Thursday) v Northland @ Northland Events Centre, Whangarei – 7.35pm

For Further Information Contact
Ross Everiss Bay of Plenty Steamers Manager
0274 487 013

STEAMERS NAME EXPERIENCED LINE-UP TO FACE WAIKATO

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 17:24:49 +0100

Media Release 29 July 2010

The Bay of Plenty Steamers, couldn’t have been handed a much bigger challenge to the start of the ITM Cup campaign, than their first up assignment against Waikato on Saturday (31 July 2010) evening.

In the days before the National Provincial Championship was established in 1976, the biggest game of the season, was always the battle against the team from the other side of the Kaimai ranges.

Bay of Plenty Steamers Head Coach Sean Horan, has selected a team that contains plenty of previous Steamers experience, blended with several new recruits to the Blue and Gold uniform.

Captain Colin Bourke, who is amongst the best back rowers in the country, leads the current Steamers caps tally having turned out for his province on 68 occasions.

The front row of Joe Savage, John Pareanga and Josh Hohneck who have been to battle in the Steamers colours number on 77 occasions, provide a strong and tough front three that Waikato will find hard to get the better off.

There are high expectations for first five Dan Waenga, who is filling the boots of All Black Mike Delaney. While Delany is expected to return to the Steamers unit in a few weeks, Waenga who is making his ITM Cup debut in Steamers colours, impressed in the Bay of Plenty teams pre-season hit outs.

Other Steamers to start, in their ITM Cup debuts in the Blue and Gold uniforms, are Luke Andrews, Taniela Moa and Brett Mather – with Chad Tuoro and Lelia Masaga likely to come off the bench during the game.

Bay of Plenty Steamers v Waikato 31 July 2010 @ Waikato Stadium - kick-off 6.35pm
1 Joe Savage 2 John Pareanga 3 Josh Hohneck 4 Luke Andrews 5 Culum Retallick 6 Luke Braid 7 Tanerau Latimer 8 Colin Bourke (captain) 9 Taniela Moa, 10 Dan Waenga 11 Jason Hona 12 Grant McQuoid 13 Brett Mather 14 Lance MacDonald 15 Toby Arnold.
Reserves: Simon Chisholm, James McGougan, Aiden Kuka, Solomon King/Sam Cane, Chad Tuoro, Phil Burleigh, Lelia Masaga,

For Further Information Contact
Ross Everiss Bay of Plenty Steamers Manager
0274 487 013

CHAMPIONSHIP CONTENDERS SEEK TO EMERGE

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 14:44:32 +0100

Press Release 29 July 2010

With championship semi-finals looming on the horizon, in the BOP Polytechnic Secondary Schools competitions, the championship contenders are starting to emerge.

In Division One of the first fifteen title race, the top four appear ready to split the competition into two this Saturday (31 July 2010). Competition leaders Western Heights High School, will consolidate their position at the top of the leader board, if they defeat Trident High School in Rotorua.

Last weekend Western Heights showed their class, running in five tries on their way to defeating Reporoa College 35-20. The Rotorua team have a real match winner in halfback Jordan Poi, who marshals his troops with authority, and can kick goals from any angle. Last week he converted all five Western Heights tries.

Defending champions Opotiki College have been in fine form in the championship round, with just a solitary loss to Western Heights, on their championship ledger card. However this weekend they are likely to receive a strong challenge from Bethlehem College, who need a victory to remain in touch with the top four.

Reporoa College will be favoured to bank the win points on offer, when Te Puke High School pay a visit - with John Paul College likely to prove too strong for Whakatane High School.

Bay of Plenty Polytechnic Secondary Schools First Fifteen Draw 31 July 2010

(Home Team first)
Division One
Opotiki College v Bethlehem College, Reporoa College v Te Puke HS, Whakatane HS v John Paul College, Western Heights HS v Trident HS
Points Table
Western Heights 18, Opotiki 16, JPC 11, Reporoa 10, Bethlehem 7, Trident 4, Te Puke 2, Whakatane 0.

Division Two
Tauhara v Rotorua Lakes, Mount Maunganui v Katikati, Edgecumbe v Taupo Nui A Tia, Otumoetai v Rotorua BHS.
Points Table
Otumoetai 19, Mount Maunganui 18, Rotorua BHS 16, Edgecumbe 10, Rotorua Lakes 6, Katikati 4, Tauhara 3*, Taupo Nui A Tia 3*.
* Result missing
For further information contact:
Mike Rogers BOPRU Operations Manager
DDI 07 927 1316 029 478 4292

BAYWIDE SEMI-FINALS TAKE CENTRE STAGE ON SATURDAY

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 14:41:38 +0100

Bartercard Baywide Rugby Preview 29 July 2010

The cutthroat nature of post section rugby, means there are no second chances in the semi-finals of the Bartercard Baywide rugby championships to be played on Saturday (31 July 2010).

In the Premier division defending champions Tauranga Sports, have taken aim on an unprecedented four successive Baywide crowns. The Tauranga Domain based side will play archrivals Te Puke Sports at the Tauranga Domain, in a replay of last seasons championship decider.

Te Puke Sports have been perennial top four finishers in the last decade, without being able to lift aloft the championship trophy in victory. The Te Puke Premiers stood in despair after the Grand Final last year, as they let a real opportunity to annex their first Baywide championship, slip from their grasp late in the game going down 31-23.

Tauranga Sports have won both contests with their arch rivals this season, taking the out the season opener 27-17, then coasting to victory in the round two posting a 37-10 victory. The great equaliser this weekend could be the Tauranga Steamers players, who aren’t available for the post section play.

Mount Maunganui who host the other semi-final, will meet Rotorua heavyweight Rotoiti at Blake Park. The two combatants go into the encounter with contrasting records last weekend. Mount Maunganui were on a Whakarewarewa backlash of not making the semi-finals, with the Mount being defeated 52-19. Rotoiti ground out a narrow victory against Opotiki, clinching a 30-28 victory.

However season honours lie firmly with Mount Maunganui, in the two games against Rotoiti played during the round robin competition. A narrow 32-26 win was followed by a 38-3 victory in round two.

Waikite are the only Baywide team, to take an unbeaten record into the Division One semi-finals. Just a 27 all draw with Rangiuru stains the Rotorua side’s season ledger card. Waikite’s home ground at Bellvue Road is the venue of their post section match-up with Kahukura.

Rangiuru, who have also been in rampant form with just two losses from eighteen games, will host Ngongotaha at Jamieson Oval in Te Puke.

While the Baywide Colts have one game of round robin play remaining this weekend, the cutthroat nature of the championship, will see just the top two graduate to the Grand Final on the first Saturday in August.

Te Puke Sports who have already qualified for the final stanza, will want to defend there season unbeaten record, when they host Opotiki at Murray Salt Stadium.

The second spot in the championship decider, will go to the winner of the Tauranga Sports encounter with Greerton Marist at Greerton headquarters.

The first Baywide final of the season will be played at Marist Park on Saturday. The Baywide Colts consolation final will be fought out between home side Marist St Michaels and Te Puna.

In Division Two Katikati will meet fellow Western Bay side Judea, for the third time in four weeks at Moore Park. Katikati who recently won the Western Bay championship, are chasing the Div Two title after annexing the Division Three crown last season. The other semi-final will be fought out between Porporo and Kawerau in the Eastern Bay.

Former Senior Reserve champions Mount Maunganui host Rangataua, while Whakarewarewa and Opotiki will battle for a place in the Senior Reserve final at Puarenga Park.

BOPRU Bartercard Baywide Draws 31 July 2010

Premier Semi-Finals (2.45pm) Tauranga Sports v Te Puke Sports, Tauranga Domain; Mount Maunganui v Rotoiti, Blake Park.
Division One Semi-Finals (2.45pm) Waikite v Kahukura, Bellvue Road; Rangiuru
v Ngongotaha, Jamieson Oval.

Division Two Semi-Finals (2.45pm) Katikati v Judea, Moore Park; Poroporo
v Kawerau, Poroporo Park.
Colts Division One (1pm) Te Puke Sports v Opotiki, Murray Salt Stadium; Mount Maunganui v Ngongotaha, Blake Park; Greerton Marist v Tauranga Sports, Greerton Park.
Points: Te Puke Sports 19, Tauranga Sports 12, Greerton Marist 10, Ngongotaha 8, Mount Maunganui 5, Opotiki 4.

Colts Division Two Final (1pm) Marist St Michaels v Te Puna, Marist Park.
Senior Reserve Semi-Finals (1pm) Mount Maunganui v Rangataua, Blake Park; Whakarewarewa v Opotiki, Puarenga Park

For further information contact:
Mike Rogers BOPRU Operations Manager
DDI 07 927 1316 029 478 4292

WESTERN HEIGHTS RETAIN UNBEATEN RECORD AGAINST REPOROA

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 16:15:58 +0100

Press Release 28 July 2010

Western Heights High School continued their unbeaten run, in the BOP Polytechnic Secondary Schools first fifteen competition last Saturday (24 July 2010) when they hosted Reporoa College.

The top echelon match-up was far from one-way traffic with Western Heights finally taking out the match 35-20. While the visitors forwards took the contest to the Rotorua school, a classy back line display from Western Heights saw then run in five tries to continue their unbeaten Division One championship record.

Three Western Heights tries were awarded to the outside back combination of Joshua Walker, Keehan Korau and Tamihana Curtis, with prop Ben Vallaliant and flanker Tom Logan grabbing a touchdown apiece.

The Reporoa points came from tries awarded to Sam McDell, Rico Flavell and Ben Mason, with Logan Curry kicking a penalty and a conversion. Reporoa coach Steve Axtens said that while his forwards played with authority, the winning of the game came from the classy Western Heights backline.

Western Heights team management singled out a great defensive effort from Josh Walker, when there team line was under pressure in the last ten minutes. Also mentioned in despatches, were the outstanding play of open side flanker Tom Logan, and the leadership displayed by Jordan Poi at halfback.

One game that went down to the wire, was the match-up in Te Puke between the home side and John Paul College. While both sides ran in three tries apiece, the difference was the penalty goal kicked by JPC, who finally sneaked home 18-15. For the winners Matt Hansen, Curtis Deane and Daniel Kutcher crossed for touchdowns

The Eastern Bay derby turned into high scoring affair with a multitude of tries. Defending Div One champions Opotiki eventually prevailed defeating Trident High School 41-29. Bethlehem College posted their first championship victory overrunning Whakatane High School 41 nil in the Western Bay of Plenty.

In Division Two competition leader Otumoetai College remained unbeaten, when they got past Rotorua Lakes 43-15. Mount Maunganui College also continued their unbeaten run posting a solid 44-10 victory against Edgecumbe College, with Rotorua Boys getting past Katikati 22-5.

Bay of Plenty Polytechnic Secondary Schools First Fifteen Results 24 July 2010

Division One
Western Heights HS 35 (Joshua Walker, Keehan Korau, Tamihana Curtis, Ben Levalliant, Tom Logan tries; Jordan Poi 5 pens) Reporoa 20 (Sam McDell, Rico Flavell, Ben Mason tries; Logan Curry pen con)
John Paul College 18 (Matt Hansen, Curtis Deane, Daniel Kutcher tries; pen) Te Puke HS 15
Opotiki 41 Trident HS 29, Bethlehem 41 Whakatane HS 0

Division Two
Otumoetai 43 Rotorua Lakes 15, Mount Maunganui 44 Edgecumbe 10, Rotorua BHS 22 Katikati 5.

For further information contact:
Mike Rogers BOPRU Operations Manager
DDI 07 927 1316 029 478 4292

26 JULY - STEAMERS UPDATE

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 16:16:05 +0100

Media Release 26 July 2010

The Bay of Plenty Steamers face one of their biggest challenges of the season, in their first match of the 2010 ITM Cup, when they run on to Waikato Stadium to face Waikato on Saturday (31 July 2010) evening.

In the days before the National Provincial Championship was established in 1976, the biggest game of the season, was always the battle against the team from the other side of the Kaimai ranges.

The games between the long time archrivals always brings a intensity to the encounters, which few other Steamers games will match during the ITM Cup season.

Saturday evenings contest in Hamilton will be the 73rd meeting of the two sides, dating back to 1926. Waikato hold the ascendancy with 45 victories over the years, with the Bay of Plenty winning 23, and four matches drawn.

Last season at Baypark, Mount Maunganui the Steamers took control to post a 32-16 victory. A future of the game was the 22 points from the boot of Steamers All Black Mike Delany.

ITM Cup Information
Bay of Plenty v Waikato (1926 – 2009)
Played 72
Waikato 45 Bay of Plenty 23 Drawn 4
Last Season BOP Steamers 32 Waikato 16

BOP Steamers Points Scorers 2010
Total Points
Try Scorers

2010 BOP Steamers ITM Cup Schedule
31 July (Saturday) v Waikato @ Waikato Stadium, Hamilton – 6.35pm
6 August (Friday) v Hawkes Bay @ McLean Park, Napier – 7.35pm
14 August (Saturday) v Auckland @ Baypark, Mount Maunganui – 2.35pm
20 August (Friday) v Taranaki @ Yarrow Stadium, New Plymouth – 7.35
29 August (Sunday) v North Harbour @Rotorua International Stadium – 4.35pm
3 September (Friday) v Canterbury @ AMI Stadium, Christchurch – 7.35pm
9 September (Thursday) v Manawatu @ Baypark, Mount Maunganui – 7.35pm
19 September (Sunday) v Counties Manukau @ Baypark, Mount Maunganui – 4.35pm
24 September (Friday) v Otago @ Rotorua International Stadium – 7.35pm
30 September (Thursday) v Wellington @ Westpac Stadium, Wellington – 7.35pm
10 October (Sunday) v Tasman @ Lansdowne Park, Blenheim – 4.35pm
16 October (Saturday) v Southland @ Baypark, Mount Maunganui – 2.35pm
21 October (Thursday) v Northland @ Northland Events Centre, Whangarei – 7.35pm

For Further Information Contact
Ross Everiss Bay of Plenty Steamers Manager
0274 487 013

STEAMERS POST UNBEATEN RECORD IN PRE-SEASON HITOUTS

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 14:09:22 +0100

Media Release 24 July 2010

The Bay of Plenty Steamers will play their first ITM Cup match next week, with a quiet air of confidence, after they made a clean sweep of their 2010 preparatory marches at Whakatane on Friday (24 July 2010).

Facing Taranaki before a parochial crowd of Steamers fans in the Eastern Bay, the visitors roared into the match, running in two tries in the opening six minutes of the match.

The Steamers regrouped and started to soak up the pressure, before first five Dan Waenga crossed for the first of the Steamers five tries, followed by a forward pushover try awarded to John Pareanga. The last twenty minutes of the first spell belonged to the Steamers, as they made repeated attacks on the Taranaki defensive line.

Three further first half touchdowns to Lance MacDonald, Chad Tuoro and Grant McQuoid saw the Steamers take a 27-17 lead into the half time break.

With both sides going to the bench in the second spell, in order to give their squad’s game time – the second half developed into a battle of attrition. The only try of the second half, came when Taranaki’s David Smith intercepted a Steamers attack to scamper down the field and score under the posts.

While both teams continued the battle in the last fifteen minutes of the match, neither side could produce further points, with the match finishing with a 27-24 victory to the Steamers.

One player to make a real impression in the early season hit-outs has been Lance MacDonald. Four tries to the flying winger including a double against Hawkes Bay, testify to a player who is hungry for points, after sitting on the sideline with injury last year.

While it is early days in the Steamers year, there are a multitude of positives to come from the preparatory matches. The Steamers tight five have continued on from last year taking few backwards steps, with the loose forwards always looking for work.

A real feature has been the quick fire attacking moves, when the Steamers have seized upon opposition mistake to score tries. Seventeen touchdowns in the preliminary games testify to the Bay of Plenty teams desire for victory.

Now that the preliminary skirmishes are out of the away, the Steamers can now turn their attention to there opening ITM Cup match with Waikato next Saturday (31 July 2010).

Result

BOP Steamers 27 (Dan Waenga, John Pareanga, Lance MacDonald, Chad Tuoro, Grant McQuoid tries; Waenga con) Taranaki 24 (Dave Smith 2, Andre Taylor; Willie Repia 2 cons pen; Beauden Barrett con)
2010 BOP Steamers Pre-Season Results
BOP Steamers 35 Manawatu 10
BOP Steamers 44 Hawkes Bay 34

For Further Information Contact
Ross Everiss Bay of Plenty Steamers Manager
0274 487 013

BARTERCARD BAYWIDE SEMI-FINALISTS CONFIRMED

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 14:06:00 +0100

Bartercard Baywide Rugby Review 25 July 2010

While the four Bartercard Baywide semi-finalists have been found, the top four form in recent weeks, would suggest that a crystal ball is needed to select the championship winner.

Rotoiti grabbed a place in the semi-finals, when they got past Opotiki at Emery Park. The victory over the Eastern Bay side was the Lakesiders first win since the last weekend in May.

However Rotoiti had to dig deep against one of real improvers of Premier club rugby this season. Down 8-21 at the break, the home side ran in four second half touchdowns to sneak home 30-28.

For the winners Maka Royal, David Fraser, Kevin Guptil, Luke Cassisdy and Joel Marsters were awarded tries with Te Hata Wilbore, Adrian Day and Maaka Mafi dotting down for Opotiki.

Rangataua could only rue what might have been. The Western Bay side needed a big win over Te Teko, and Rotoiti to fall at the last hurdle, for Rangataua to make the semi-finals.

Leaving no stone unturned with their own performance, Rangataua demolished Te Teko 70-12 in the Eastern Bay, however it was to no avail when news filtered through that Rotoiti had defeated Opotiki.

Defending Premier champions Tauranga Sports, finished the round robin competition that started back in the last weekend of March, at the top of the table. The Tauranga Domain based side who are seeking four successive titles won the right to host a home semi-final (against Te Puke Sports) next weekend.

Facing Te Puna at home Tauranga Sports ground out a 38-24 victory. The defending champions held a narrow 12-7 lead at the break, before running in four further tries in the second spell. A feature of the match was the three touchdowns awarded to Tauranga Sports leading point’s scorer Jason Karauria.

Whakatane Marist capped off a sterling July when they defeated Te Puke Sports 21-19 at Murray Salt Stadium. In four successive games the Eastern Bay Marist side has lowered the colours of Rotoiti, Tauranga Sports, Te Puna and the Te Puke team.

Whakarewarewa were another side that could only rue lost opportunities earlier in the season, finishing just outside the top four. On Saturday, they gave Mount Maunganui, who finished second in the round robin competition, a rugby lesson winning 52-19.

In Division One Waikite and Rangiuru continued their stranglehold at the top of the point’s ledger. Waikite defeated Marist St Michaels 52-12, with Rangiuru getting home against Paroa 36-15.

Kahukura, who sat on the sideline courtesy of the bye, grabbed the last semi-final spot, when Reporoa defeated Greerton at Greerton Park. The home side appeared to have booked a top four berth leading by 12 points with ten minutes remaining.

However a Reporoa blitzkrieg, with Jeremy Ward, Duncan Wills and Leroy Chase scoring tries as the clock ticked down, resulted in Reporoa taking out the encounter 25-20.

In the Baywide Colts title race, Te Puke Sports hade to repel a strong challenge from Ngongotaha late in match, before posting a 22-17 victory. In a replay of last year’s championship final Te Puke made the early running leading 17-5 at the break.

Another Te Puke touchdown extended the visitors lead to 22-5, before Ngongotaha roared back into the game. The last quarter belonged to the home team who ran in two tries with Te Puke having to defend their line to the final whistle.

BOPRU Bartercard Baywide Results 24 July 2010

Premier
Whakatane Marist 21 (Alamoti Te Pou, Abe Tito, Jesse Ram tries; Craig Edwards 2pen) Te Puke Sports 19 (Simon Rolleston, Aaron Sutherland, Ryan Lambert tries; Sutherland 2con).

Tauranga Sports 38 (Jason Karauria 3, Steve Honey, Adam Robinson, Brendon Clark tries; Karauaria 4con) Te Puna 24 (Josh Walker, Daniel Schuster, Junior Bidois, John Brown tries; Darrell Houia 2con). HT: 12-7.

Whakarewarewa 52 (Paula Asaeli 2, Doug Edwards 2, Chris van der Vlugt 2, Aaron Rameka, Theo Heta, Hayden Baird tries; Kelly Haimona 2con pen) Mount Maunganui 19 (Jah Smith, Andy Devoy, Peter Maisey tries; Maisey 2con). HT: 32-5.

Rotoiti 30 (Maka Royal, David Fraser, Kevin Guptil, Luke Cassidy, Jake Marsters tries; Joe Fenton pen con) Opotiki 28 (Te Hata Wilbore, Adrian Day, Maaka Mafi tries; Sam Howe 2con 2pen dg). HT: 8-21.

Rangataua 70 (Timoti Gardiner 3, Roha Dalby-Reidy 2, Quinton Gardiner 2, Matua Parkinson, Alex Jessop, Paroa Gardiner tries; John Ririnui 6 con, Ashley Mason 3, Quinton Gardiner con) Te Teko 12(Scott Sutherland, Anthony Studer tries; Lee Peina con).

Points Table (Final)
Tauranga Sports 71, Mount Maunganui 62. Rotoiti 53, Te Puke Sports 51, Rangataua 50, Whakarewarewa 48, Opotiki 38, Whakatane Marist 38,Te Puna 28, Te Teko 19.

Division One: Ngongotaha 25 Ruatoki 14, Waikite 52 Marist St Michaels 12, Rangiuru 36 Paroa 15, Reporoa 25 Greerton Marist 20.
Points Table (Final)
Waikite 79, Rangiuru 68, Ngongotaha 47, Kahukura 44, Greerton Marist 42, Reporoa 40, Paroa 33, Ruatoki 21, Marist St Michaels 19.

Division Two: Katikati 63 Murupara 14, Kawerau 24 Eastern Pirates 14, Poroporo 15 Judea 12.

Colts Division One: Greerton Marist 18 Mount Maungnaui 0, Te Puke Sports 22 Ngongotaha 17, Tauranga Sports defeated Opotiki.
Colts Division Two: Marist St Michaels 36 Whakarewarewa 13, Te Puna won by default.

Senior Reserve: Mount Maunganui 45 Kahukura 13, Whakarewarewa 44 Ruatoki 10, Opotiki 19 Rangataua 10.

Bartercard Baywide Semi-Finals 31 July 2010
Premier: Tauranga Sports v Te Puke Sports, Mount Maungnaui v Rotoiti.
Division One: Waikite v Kahukura, Rangiuru v Ngongotaha.

For further information contact:
Mike Rogers BOPRU Operations Manager
DDI 07 927 1316 029 478 4292

LAST BAYWIDE PREMIER PLACE UP FOR GRABS

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 16:36:34 +0100

Bartercard Baywide Rugby Preview 22 July 2010

The business end of a long Bartercard Baywide season has arrived, with the top four to go on to contest the Premier and Division One semi-finals, set in concrete after results are posted this Saturday (24 July 2010).

A game apiece in Rotorua and the Eastern Bay, will determine the fourth qualifier in the Premier Division. With defending champions Tauranga Sports, Mount Maunganui, and Te Puke Sports having booked post section berths – the destiny of Rotoiti is very firmly in their own hands.

Currently sitting in fourth place with just one round remaining, the scenario is simple - defeat Opotiki at home at Emery Park, and grab the last semi-final place. However the side from the Eastern Bay have gone through a real revival in July. Victories against Te Puke Sports, Te Teko and Whakarewarewa suggest that Rotoiti will have to produce there A game on Saturday.

By contrast the Lakesiders who were the early season front-runners, haven’t posted a win since the last weekend in May. Last weekend they had the opportunity to nail a post section place after scoring a last gasp try, however the missed conversion attempt resulted in a one-point loss to Tauranga Sports.

If Rotoiti fall at the last hurdle Rangataua could grab the last position. Facing bottom placed Te Teko, the Western Bay sides way to the semi-final is that Opotiki must eliminate the Rotorua side, and Rangataua defeat Te Teko.

In the other Premier encounters Tauranga Sports visit Maramatanga Park to meet Te Puna, Whakarewarewa host Mount Maunganui, and Te Puke Sports and Whakatane Marist go head to head at Murray Salt Stadium.

With Waikite and Rangiuru guaranteed Division One home semi-finals, there will be a dogfight for the last two places. While Kahukura presently sit in third place, they will have no influence on the final makeup of the top four, as they sit on the sideline courtesy of the last round bye.

Ngongotaha will be favoured to secure a semi-final berth when they meet Ruatoki. The key to the top four, is the Greerton Marist home game against Reporoa, who have been the big improvers on the points ledger in recent weeks.

A Greerton victory would see the Marist side advance, while a Reporoa win would let Kahukura through the back gate.

The cutthroat nature of the Baywide Colts top six, where just the top two finishers will go on to contest the Grand Final, provides a extra edge to this weekends results.

The match-up between Te Puke Sports and Ngongotaha is a replay of last season championship decider. Victory to Te Puke will not only continue their unbeaten season record, but should also confirm place on Finals day.

With just one point between Greerton Marist and Mount Maunganui, the winner of their game will take a big step towards a place in the championship decider, with just one round remaining. Opotiki will have the home advantage when Tauranga Sports visits the Eastern Bay of Plenty.

BOPRU Bartercard Baywide Draws 24 July 2010

Premier (2.45pm) Te Teko v Rangataua, Dunderdale Park; Te Puna v Tauranga Sports, Maramatanga Park; Whakarewarewa v Mount Maunganui, Puarenga Park; Rotoiti v Opotiki, Emery Park; Te Puke Sports v Whakatane Marist, Murray Salt Stadium.
Points Table
Tauranga Sports 66, Mount Maunganui 62. Te Puke Sports 51, Rotoiti 49, Rangataua 45, Whakarewarewa 43, Opotiki 37, Whakatane Marist 34,Te Puna 28, Te Teko 19.

Division One (2.45pm) Ruatoki v Ngongotaha, Tuhoe Park; Waikite v Marist St Michaels, Bellvue Road; Rangiuru v Paroa, Jamieson Oval; Greerton Marist v Reporoa, Greerton Park; Kahukura the bye.
Points Table
Waikite 74, Rangiuru 63, Kahukura 44, Ngongotaha 43, Greerton Marist 42, Reporoa 35, Paroa 33, Ruatoki 21, Marist St Michaels 19.

Division Two (2.45pm) Katikati v Murupara, Moore Park; Eastern Pirates v Kawerau, Neil Hunt Park; Poroporo v Judea, Poroporo Park.

Colts (1pm)
Division One: Opotiki v Tauranga Sports, Opotiki Reserve; Mount Maungnaui v Greerton Marist, Blake Park; Ngongotaha v Te Puke Sports, Ngongotaha Domain.
Points Table: Te Puke Sports 14, Ngongotaha 7, Tauranga Sports 7, Greerton Marist 6, Mount Maunganui 5, Opotiki 4.

Division Two: Marist St Michaels v Whakarewarewa, Marist Park; Te Puna v Rangataua, Maramatanga Park.

Senior Reserve: Mt Maunganui v Kahukura, Blake Park (2.45pm) Whakarewarewa v Ruatoki, Puarenga Park (1pm) Opotiki v Rangataua, Opotiki (2.45pm).

For further information contact:
Mike Rogers BOPRU Operations Manager
DDI 07 927 1316 029 478 4292

BAY OF PLENTY STEAMERS LIKELY TO ATTRACT A LARGE CROWD TO WHAKATANE ON FRIDAY

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 16:25:13 +0100

Media Release 21 July 2010

Bay of Plenty Steamers Head Coach Sean Horan, will test his different options and combinations for the last time, before the ITM Cup kicks off in the last week in July.

On Friday afternoon (23 July 2010) a large crowd is expected to be on hand at Rugby Park in Whakatane, to see the Steamers take on Taranaki in the last of the Steamers preparatory matches, ahead of their ITM Cup campaign.

Two high profile Steamers recruits, will pull on the blue and gold Bay of Plenty team uniform for the first time. All Black Lelia Masaga is sure to get a run off the bench, with former New Zealand Schools and Colts representative Taniela Moa expected to take on the halfback role during the match.

Homegrown All Black Tanerau Latimer, who will start in the number seven jersey, has been given the captains mantle for the game. The Steamers possess a line-up of loose forwards that are likely to play havoc with the opposition during ITM Cup.

Starting with Tanerau Latimer in the Steamers loose forward ranks against Taranaki, are Luke Braid and Solomon King, with dynamic number eight Colin Bourke coming off the bench.

This week’s game against Taranaki in the Eastern Bay of Plenty, is continuing the BOPRU philosophy of taking the Steamers to the wider Bay of Plenty community, and to make the Bay flagship representatives as assessable as possible.

The match in Whakatane follows on from the Steamers first season hitout against Manawatu, that took place at the Reporoa Rugby Club, in the extremities of the Bay of Plenty

Bay of Plenty Steamers v Hawkes Bay @ Rugby Park, Whakatane - 3pm Kick Off
1 Joe Savage 2 John Pareanga 3 Josh Hohneck 4 Luke Andrews 5 Culum Retallick 6 Luke Braid 7 Tanerau Latimer (captain) 8 Solomon King 9 Chad Tuoro 10 Dan Waenga 11 Jason Hona 12 Grant McQuoid 13 Ben Smith 14 Lance MacDonald 15 Toby Arnold.
Reserves: Simon Chisholm, James McGougan, Aiden Kuka, Colin Bourke, Taniela Moa, Cory Aporo, Lelia Masaga, Sam Cane.

2010 BOP Steamers Pre-Season Results
BOP Steamers 35 Manawatu 10
BOP Steamers 44 Hawkes Bay 34

For Further Information Contact
Ross Everiss Bay of Plenty Steamers Manager
0274 487 013

WESTERN HIEGHTS PUT UNBEATEN RECORD ON THE LINE AGAINST REPOROA COLLEGE

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 16:08:36 +0100

Press Release 22 July 2010

With the school holidays and the preliminary skirmishes out of the way, the BOP Polytechnic Secondary Schools first fifteen competition, gets serious from the resumption of play this Saturday (24 July 2010).

Western Heights High School, who have a proud record in Bay of Plenty and New Zealand Schools rugby over the decades, have laid down the gauntlet to the other Division One contenders in the second round.

Three from three victories, suggest the team coached by Bay of Plenty rugby legend Ron Preston, have championship silverware firmly on their agenda. However this weekend they are likely to receive a real challenge from Reporoa College.

The school from the extremities of the Bay of Plenty, took out the Division Two first round title with an unbeaten record. Their only defeat in the Div One championship round has been provided by John Paul College, who reversed the Div Two final result winning a nail biter 10-7.

Defending champions Opotiki College, have posted two victories and a 10 all draw with Bethlehem College. On Saturday they will take part in an Eastern Bay derby against Trident High School. Bethlehem College face Whakatane High School in the Western Bay, with Te Puke High hosting John Paul College.

Otumoetai College have made a flying start to their Division Two campaign. Over a hundred points in just three encounters, suggest the Western Bay School will be the team to beat in the First Fifteen second echelon competition. In spite of having to travel to the Sulphur City they should prove too strong for Rotorua Lakes.

While Otumoetai sit at the top of the table, Rotorua Boys, Edgecumbe College and Mount Maungnaui are locked in a logjam in the other top four positions.

The key match-up that should break the logjam, is the encounter in the Western Bay between Mount Maunganui and Edgecumbe College. Rotorua Boys should consolidate their position against Katikati College in Katikati.

There will be plenty of interest in Taupo when the two local schools face off. Taupo Nui A Tia who annexed the Div Three first round title could have their hands full with Tauhara College.

Bay of Plenty Polytechnic Secondary Schools First Fifteen Draw 24 July 2010

(Home Team first)
Division One
Trident HS v Opotiki College, Bethlehem College v Whakatane HS, Western Heights High School v Reporoa, Te Puke HS v John Paul College.
Points Table
Western Heights 13, Opotiki 11, Reporoa 10, JPC 7, Trident 3, Bethlehem 2, Te Puke 1, Whakatane 0.

Division Two
Rotorua Lakes v Otumoetai College, Mount Maunganui v Edgecumbe, Tauhara v Taupo Nui A Tia, Katikati v Rotorua BHS.
Points Table
Otumoetai 14, Rotorua BHS 11, Edgecumbe 10, Mount Maunganui 10, Rotorua Lakes 6, Katikati 4, Taupo Nui A Tia 3, Tauhara 3.

For further information contact:
Mike Rogers BOPRU Operations Manager
DDI 07 927 1316 029 478 4292

19 July - STEAMERS UPDATE

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 17:20:01 +0100

Media Release - 19 July 2010

Last Fridays win against longtime rivals Hawkes Bay has been quickly put away, as the Bay of Plenty Steamers focus on their third (and last) ITM Cup preparatory match this Friday (23 July 2010).

This week’s game against Taranaki at Rugby Park in Whakatane, is continuing the BOPRU philosophy of taking the Steamers to the wider Bay of Plenty community, and to make the Bay flagship representatives as assessable as possible. The match in the Eastern Bay follows on from the Steamers first season hitout against Manawatu, that took place at the Reporoa Rugby Club, in the extremities of the Bay of Plenty

While two from two wins sit on the Steamers pre-season ledger card, a major objective set by Head Coach Sean Horan has been to give to the various combinations in his team, solid workouts.

During the ITM Cup season there will be a number of games that are up for grabs throughout the encounter. A accurate goal kicker can be the difference between victory and defeat - with the Steamers already looking to have several options in their kicking ranks.

Former Hawkes Bay player Dan Waenga has shown in the two preparatory games that he can kick with pinpoint accuracy. Another to showcase his kicking skills has been utility back Nick McCashin, who added two from two conversions in the Manawatu match.

The addition of many passionate Steamers fans from the Western Bay and Rotorua, to the large number Eastern Bay Steamers supporters, should ensure the biggest crowd seen at Rugby Park for a number of years.

2010 Bay of Plenty Steamers Pre-Season Games
23 (Friday) July v Taranaki at Rugby Park, Whakatane – 3pm

2010 BOP Steamers Pre-Season Results
BOP Steamers 35 (Chad Tuoro, Grant McQuoid, Ben Smith, Phil Burleigh, Lance MacDonald; Dan Waenga 3 cons, Nick McCashin 2 con) Manawatu 10

BOP Steamers 44 (Lance MacDonald 2, Toby Arnold 2, Luke Andrews, Ben Smith, Josh Hohneck tries; Dan Waenga 3 cons pen) Hawkes Bay 34

For Further Information Contact
Ross Everiss Bay of Plenty Steamers Manager
0274 487 013

BAYWIDE RIPPA RUGBY FINAL TO TAKE CENTRE STAGE IN PAENGAROA

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 15:27:01 +0100

Media Release 19 July 2010

While the Rugby World Cup hits New Zealand in 2011, the exhilaration of top-level rugby will be experienced when twenty-four Bay of Plenty teams endeavour to lift aloft the first Baywide Rippa Rugby Championship.

Several years ago Bay of Plenty Rugby introduced the Rippa Rugby World Cup to the Western Bay of Plenty. It has since been taken to Rotorua, and the hugely popular tournament made its entrance in the Eastern Bay of Plenty this year.

For the first time a Baywide Rippa Rugby Championship Final will find the best school teams in the region. While each participating school had a team apiece in the Year Three & Four and Year Five and Six divisions in the regional competitions – only the top four schools in each division, from each of the regional tournaments, have earned a place in the final stanza.

The Bay of Plenty Final of the Rippa Rugby extravaganza will be played at the Paengaroa Domain on the 4th August 2010. The twenty-four teams from the three Bay of Plenty regions will represent their School and respective Sub-Union in the championship deciders.

Kane Hames BOPRU Rugby Development Officer said “From 126 teams that entered the Rippa Rugby World Cup, just twenty-four have made it through to the Baywide final, to be played at Paengaroa”. “ The teams will wear their school rugby uniforms as they try to win the first Bay of Plenty Rippa Rugby Championship”.

“ I have visited over 70 schools this year and the level of talent participating in the tournament is outstanding”. “Not only have the youngsters put in the hard yards as team members, but a considerable number have the talent to push on to higher honours”, said Kane.

The Bay of Plenty tournaments brings together schools from both town and country, where the city school players rub shoulders with their country cousins. At the Central (Rotorua) region event, the year 3/4 division was won by Selwyn School, with country school Paengaroa taking out the older age group division.

Opotiki Primary and Paroa School were the victors in the Eastern Bay of Plenty, with Pillans Point and Fairhaven winning their respective Western Bay divisions.

BOPRU Rippa Rugby World Cup Regional Results (and participants at the Baywide RR Final)

Central
Year3/4 – Winner: Selwyn School R/U: Malfroy School – Semi-Finalists: Ngongotaha/Otanga
Year 5/6 – Winner: Paengaroa R/U: Malfroy – Semi-Finalists: Rotorua Primary/Otanga
Western BOP
Year3/4 – Winner: Pillans Point R/U Thomas More – Semi-Finalists: Papamoa/Fairhaven
Year 5/6 – Winner: Fairhaven R/U Te Akau Papamoa – Semi-Finalists: Papamoa/Maungatapu
Eastern BOP
Year3/4 – Winner: Opotiki R/U: Te Kura o Teko – Semi-Finalists: Allandale/Apanui
Year 5/6 – Winner: Paroa R/U: Opotiki – Semi-Finalists: St Joesphs/Te Kura o Te Teko

For Further Information Contact
Mike Rogers BOPRU Operations Manager
DDI 07 927 1316 029 478 4292

LAST SEMI-FINAL SPOT TO GO DOWN TO THE WIRE

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 13:59:48 +0100

Bartercard Baywide Rugby Review 18 July 2010

While the top three teams confirmed berths in the Bartercard Baywide Premier semi-finals on Saturday (17 July 2010), the fourth spot will go down to the wire next weekend.

Rangataua won a battle of attrition with third placed Te Puke Sports, to still have a theoretical opportunity to play post section rugby. The home side ground out a 13-6 victory over the fellow Western Bay side, to remain in contention for a top four finish.

The first half was a real arm wrestle with the home side establishing a narrow 5-3 lead at the break, before Rangataua ran in a second try, to take out the encounter 13-6. For the winners Rob Hunter and Toko Ririnui were awarded touchdowns, with John Ririnui kicking a penalty goal - with Aaron Sutherland and Brett McLeod kicking a penalty goal apiece for Te Puke.

Rangataua’s success saw the Jordan Cup (Western BOP challenge trophy) return to the club who started the season with the long time Western Bay trophy.

Rotoiti went within a whisker of booking a berth in the semi-finals, when they went down to defending champions Tauranga Sports 24-23. The first half at the Tauranga Domain belonged to the visitors, with Rotoiti having established an 18-5 lead at the break.

Tauranga Sports worked their way to a 24-18 lead courtesy of second half touchdowns to Afai Esera, Adam Robinson and Jason Karauria. In the last play of the game Rotoiti replacement Manasa Bole scored a try out wide. The Rotoiti players could only watch with sinking hearts, as the kick to win the match (and secure a semi-final berth) drifted away from the uprights.

With Tauranga Sports, Mount Maunganui and Te Puke Sports having secured a semi-final place – The scenario in next weekends last round is that Rotoiti who haven’t won a match since late May, must beat Opotiki to finish fourth. If Rotoiti lose, Rangataua must defeat bottom placed Te Teko to grab the last post section place.

In other Premier encounters Whakarewarewa dropped out of contention when they were defeated by Opotiki 22-18. Whakatane Marist continued their late season revival getting home from Te Puna 23-11, with Mount Maunganui winning a high scoring match against Te Teko 63-35.

While Rangiuru lost just their second match of the year against Reporoa 29-12, the Western Bay side had already secured a Division One home semi-final. Waikite preserved their unbeaten record with a relatively narrow win against Ngongotaha 25-17, Greerton Marist got past Marist St Michaels 27-12, with Kahukura steamrolling Ruatoki 63 nil.

In Baywide Colts action, second round leaders Te Puke Sports won a real battle with long time rivals Mount Maunganui 13-3, Ngongotaha and Tauranga Sports battled to a 13 all draw, with Greerton Marist finding winning form again when they defeated Opotiki 35-22,

Bartercard Baywide Rugby Results 17 July 2010

Premier
Tauranga Sports 24 (Steven Honey, Afai Esera, Adam Robinson, Jason Karauria tries; Karauria 2con) Rotoiti 23 (Manasa Bole, David Fraser, Luther Robinson, Elijah Haira-Wilson tries; Joe Fenton pen). HT: 5-18.

Opotiki 22 (Kevin Waterson, Francis Cameron, Te Amo Wilbore tries; Sam Howe 2con pen) Whakarewarewa 18 (Tamati Rhind, Barney Te Kani tries; Haimona 2pen con). HT: 5-13.

Mount Maunganui 63 (Zar Lawrence 2, Ted Tauroa, Sam Juricich, Troye Elvin, Andy Devoy, Taita Love, Chad Jacobs, Jah Smith, Zion Nordstrom tries; Juricich pen con, Peter Maisey 4con) Te Teko 35 (Dan Godbold, Luke O'Brien, Mikaere Ngamotu, Don Te Maipi, Lee Peina tries; Peina 5con). HT: 22-5.

Rangataua 13 (Rob Hunter, Toko Ririnui tries; John Ririnui pen) Te Puke 6 (Aaron Sutherland pen, Brett McLeod pen. HT: 5-3.

Whakatane Marist 23 (Abe Tito 2, Pineaha McNeil tries; Craig Edwards 2pen con) Te Puna 11 (Aidan Kuka try; Darrell Houia 2pen).

Premier Points Table
Tauranga Sports 66, Mount Maunganui 62. Te Puke Sports 51, Rotoiti 49, Rangataua 45, Whakarewarewa 43, Opotiki 37, Whakatane Marist 34, Te Puna 28, Te Teko 19.

Division One: Kahukura 63 Ruatoki 0, Greerton Marist 27 Marist St Michaels 12, Reporoa 29 Rangiuru 12, Waikite 25 Ngongotaha 17.
Points Table
Waikite 75, Rangiuru 63, Kahukura 44, Ngongotaha 43, Greerton Marist 42, Reporoa 35, Paroa 33, Ruatoki 21, Marist St Michaels 19.

Colts:
Division One: Te Puke Sports 13 Mount Maunganui 3, Tauranga Sports 13 Ngongotaha 13, Greerton Marist 35 Opotiki 22.
Division Two: Te Puna 38 Whakarewarewa 18, Marist St Michaels 61 Rotoiti 7, Whakatane Marist won by default.

For further information contact:
Mike Rogers BOPRU Operations Manager
DDI 07 927 1316 029 478 4292

STEAMERS DEFEAT HAWKES BAY IN PRE-SEASON MATCH-UP IN NAPIER

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 13:57:17 +0100

Media Release 17 July 2010

The Bay of Plenty Steamers posted their second successive success, in their three game preparation for the ITM Cup, when they defeated Hawkes Bay in a fast paced encounter in Napier on Friday (16 July 2010).

A attacking first ten minutes from Hawkes Bay saw them jump out to a 12 nil lead, before Toby Arnold grabbed the Steamers first touchdown. Further pressure from the home side resulted in another try to give them a 17-5 advantage.

Late in the first half the Steamers game grew in confidence, with Luke Andrews and Lance MacDonald touching down tries. At 17-15 to the home side at the half time break, the game was up for grabs.

A revitalised Steamers team fired from the second half kick-off, with Lance MacDonald running in his second touchdown after just five minutes. Further Steamers attacks paid dividends with Ben Smith, Josh Hohneck and Toby Arnold awarded tries. Three conversions and a penalty goal from Dan Waenga saw the Steamers leading 44-22, with ten minutes remaining in the match.

However two late consolation tries to Hawkes Bay, resulted in a final scoreline of BOP Steamers 44 Hawkes Bay 34. A pleasing feature of the seven-try victory, was that it reversed last years 35-7 defeat by Hawkes Bay in a pre-season game at the Tauranga Domain.

There is a quite confidence in the Steamers camp, heading towards the last warm-up encounter, with Taranaki next Friday (23 July 2010). A significant feature is that the new season recruits have blended seamlessly into the Steamers culture and patterns of play.

Result

BOP Steamers 44 (Lance MacDonald 2, Toby Arnold 2, Luke Andrews, Ben Smith, Josh Hohneck tries; Dan Waenga 3 cons pen) Hawkes Bay 34

For Further Information Contact
Ross Everiss Bay of Plenty Steamers Manager
0274 487 013

WHAKAREWAREWA AND RANGATAUA MUST WIN ON SATURDAY

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 11:20:16 +0100

Bartercard Baywide Rugby Preview 15 July 2010

Victory for Whakarewarewa and Rangataua is vital this Saturday (17 July 2010) to keep their Bartercard Baywide Premier semi-final aspirations alive. Whaka are sitting six points off fourth placed Rotoiti, with Rangataua a point further back.

With just two rounds remaining before the semi-finals - defeat would almost certainly eliminate the contenders from the title race.

Whakarewarewa who travel to the Eastern Bay of Plenty to take on Opotiki, made an unusually slow start to the season. However the Rotorua side have posted three wins in the last four weeks to move closer to a playoff spot.

Standing in their way of moving up the points ladder this weekend is Opotiki, who showed when they defeated Te Puke Sports 15-6 two weeks ago, that they are a real force at home in front of their passionate supporters.

Rangataua are another side that make their home ground a virtual fortress. This weekend Te Puke Sports will have to withstand the concerted vocal efforts of the Te Ariki Park crowd.

The visitors to Rangataua headquarters, have quietly worked their way into third place on the point’s ledger. Last weekend they beat long-time rivals Mount Maunganui to regain the Jordan Cup (Western BOP challenge trophy), which will be on the line on Saturday.

Defending Premier champions Tauranga Sports, will face a desperate challenge from Rotoiti, who need to find winning form to ensure a place in the post section action. The Rotorua Lakeside team, who made much of the early season running, have not won a match since the last weekend in May.

The record book would suggest that second placed Mount Maunganui should easily account for Te Teko who sit at the bottom of the table. However the Eastern Bay side have proved a tough nut to overcome in many of their games, with the opposition just getting home for victory. Whakatane Marist who has had a recent revival in fortunes will be favoured to defeat Te Puna at Rugby Park in Whakatane.

While Waikite and Rangiuru have already booked Division One home semi-final berths, there is likely to be a dogfight for the last two spots. With Ngongotaha scheduled to meet Waikite, there is an opportunity for Kahukura and Greerton Marist, to leapfrog their way in front of the side from the extremities of Rotorua.

Greerton Marist should prove too good for Marist St Michaels who sit at the bottom of the table, with Kahukura favoured to defeat Ruatoki at Kuirau Park. In the other Div One encounter Rangiuru could have their hands full with Reporoa, who have posted a couple of significant victories in recent weeks.

The Baywide Colts top six is a cutthroat competition, with just the top two finishers going on to contest the Baywide Final on the 7th August 2010.

Te Puke Sports are desperate in their desire to finish one place better than last season. Last years beaten finalists have posted an unbeaten record this season, going fifteen games without defeat. This weekend Te Puke will play archrivals Mount Maunganui, at home at Murray Salt Stadium.

The other Colts top six matches see Tauranga Sports hosting last seasons champions Ngongotaha, with Greerton Marist travelling to the Eastern Bay to face Opotiki.

BOPRU Bartercard Baywide Draws 17 July 2010

Premier (2.45pm) Tauranga Sports v Rotoiti, Tauranga Domain; Opotiki v Whakarewarewa, Opotiki Reserve; Rangataua v Te Puke Sports, Te Ariki Park; Mount Maunganui v Te Teko, Blake Park; Whakatane Marist v Te Puna, Rugby Park.
Premier Points Table
Tauranga Sports 61, Mount Maunganui 57. Te Puke Sports 50, Rotoiti 48, Whakarewarewa 42, Rangataua 41, Opotiki 33, Whakatane Marist 30Te Puna 28, Te Teko 18

Division One (2.45pm) Kahukura v Ruatoki, Kuirau Park; Ngongotaha v Waikite, Ngongotaha Domain; Marist St Michaels v Greerton Marist, Marist Park; Reporoa v Rangiuru, Reporoa; Paroa the bye.
Points Table
Waikite 70, Rangiuru 63, Ngongotaha 43, Kahukura 39, Greerton Marist 37, Paroa 33, Reporoa 30, Ruatoki 21, Marist St Michaels 19.

Colts (1pm)
Division One: Te Puke Sports v Mount Maunganui, Murray Salt Stadium; Tauranga Sports v Ngongotaha, Tauranga Domain; Opotiki v Greerton Marist, Opotiki Reserve.
Points Table: Te Puke Sports 10, Mount Maunganui 5, Ngongotaha 5, Tauranga Sports 5, Opotiki 4, Greerton Marist 1.

Division Two: Te Puna v Whakarewarewa, Maramatanga Park; Marist St Michaels v Rotoiti, Marist Park; Whakatane Marist v Rangataua, Rugby Park.

For further information contact:
Mike Rogers BOPRU Operations Manager
DDI 07 927 1316 029 478 4292

STEAMERS FACE A BIG TEST IN NAPIER ON FRIDAY AFTERNOON

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 10:49:31 +0100

Media Release 14 July 2010

The Bay of Plenty Steamers build-up towards the 2010 ITM Cup continues in Napier on Friday (16 July 2010), when they play long time rivals Hawkes Bay in Napier.

The two sides have a rivalry that dates back to 1922 – with Hawkes Bay providing a ideal test of where the Steamers are at, as they prepare for the thirteen match ITM Cup campaign.

Steamers Head Coach Sean Horan and Assistant Coach Steve Miln, have continued to try out various combinations, in the team that has been announced to face Hawkes Bay.

Two of the Steamers heavyweights will return to the side in Napier. Dynamic number eight Colin Bourke will pick up the captain’s mantle, with 2009 All Black Tanerau Latimer likely to take to the field from the bench.

Nick McCashin, who shared the kicking duties in the Steamers victory over Manawatu last week, will start at fullback. The second term Steamer brings a utility role to the side, and is equally comfortably at first five or further out in the back line.

One player who made a real impression in the Manwatu victory was Grant McQuoid, who is back in the Steamers ranks after a sojourn overseas. His block busting runs against Manawatu were a feature of the Steamers first serious hit out.

Another to impress in the first preparatory match was Lance MacDonald, who spent all of last season on the sideline with injury. His reward came when he scorched down the sideline for his sides fifth try in the 35-10 victory.

The Steamers encounter with Hawkes Bay is the Bay teams second ITM Cup preparatory match, with the final hit out to be played against Taranaki in Whakatane on Friday 23rd July 2010.

Bay of Plenty Steamers v Hawkes Bay @ Napier - 2.35pm Kick Off

1 Joe Savage 2 John Pareanga 3 Josh Hohneck 4 Luke Katene 5 Culum Retallick 6 Luke Andrews 7 Sam Cane 8 Colin Bourke (captain) 9 Chad Tuoro 10 Phil Burleigh 11 Jason Hona 12 Grant McQuoid 13 Ben Smith 14 Lance MacDonald 15 Nick McCashin.
Reserves: Simon Chisholm, Ted Tauroa, Aiden Kuka, Tanerau Latimer, Dan Waenga, Brett Mather, Toby Arnold, Chris Elvin.

For Further Information Contact
Ross Everiss Bay of Plenty Steamers Manager
0274 487 013

BAY OF PLENTY STEAMERS UPDATE EVERY MONDAY

Mon, 12 Jul 2010 15:01:36 +0100

Media Release 12 July 2010

STEAMERS UPDATE

Welcome to the first of the Bay of Plenty Steamers Monday Updates.

This week’s edition has two purposes. The first is to reiterate that the Steamers next pre-season match is against Hawkes Bay in Napier on Friday 16th July 2010. (Please disregard any earlier information.

The Steamers were relatively injury free after the game against Manawatu in Reporoa last Friday.

This weeks warm-up with Hawkes Bay is the second of three preparatory matches, before the Steamers first ITM Cup match against Waikato at the Waikato Stadium in Hamilton on Saturday 31st July 2010.

The second purpose of this update is to introduce the Steamers support team. While Head Coach Sean Horan, Assistant Coach Steve Miln and Manager Ross Everiss are well known, there are a support team that play a vital part in team preparation and on match day.

Physiotherapist Paul Cameron is a stalwart of Bay of Plenty rugby, and is the first port of call for players in remaining injury free. Strength and Condition Coach Murray Pedersen and Assistant S&C Coach Abby Galenzoski ensure that the side is well prepared for the physical side of the ITM Cup campaign.

Analysis and Defence Coach Paul Feeney is part of the management think tank that plots Steamers tactics.

Head Coach: Sean Horan Assistant Coach: Steve Miln
Manager: Ross Everiss Physio: Paul Cameron
Strength & Conditioning Coach: Murray Pedersen
Asst Strength & Condition Coach: Abby Galenoski
Analysis and Defence Coach: Paul Feeney

2010 Bay of Plenty Steamers Pre-Season Games
16 (Friday) July v Hawkes Bay at Napier – 2.35pm
23 (Friday) July v Taranaki at Rugby Park, Whakatane

For Further Information Contact
Mike Rogers BOPRU Operations Manager
DDI 07 927 1316 029 478 4292

WHAKAREWAREWA AND RANGATAUA MOVE UP THE POINTS TABLE

Mon, 12 Jul 2010 14:50:38 +0100

Bartercard Baywide Rugby Review 11 July 2010

Whakarewarewa and Rangataua were the big movers on the points table, on a day where the top three teams in the Bartercard Baywide Premier title race, suffered defeat

The battle between the two Rotorua heavyweights was taken out by Whakakrewarewa who defeated Rotoiti 30-17 at Emery Park. The visitors were in charge in the first spell taking a 16-7 advantage into the half time break.

Whakarewarewa continued to pile on the pressure in the second spell running in two further touchdowns. Whaka kicker Kelly Haimona was in fine touch adding fifteen points courtesy of three conversions and three penalty goals.

The Whakarewarewa win returned the Tai Mitchell Shield, which is a long time Rotorua rugby trophy, to the Whaka trophy cabinet

Western Bay contenders Rangataua moved within striking distance of the top four, when they just got home against long time local rivals Te Puna, at Maramataga Park. In recent years the encounters between the two sides have been in doubt until the final whistle, with Saturdays (10 July 2010) game being little different.

Te Puna took a grip on the game leading 20-15 in the second spell, before Rangataua crossed for a try, with just a few minutes remaining in the match. With the conversion sailing between the posts the visitors then held on to take out the game 22-20.

Whakatane Marist, took advantage of competition leaders Tauranga Sports being without their senior representative players, to earn their most significant victory of the season. The additional challenge of meeting the defending Baywide champions at home at the Tauranga Domain, didn’t faze the Eastern Bay side who won 29-23.

Second placed Mount Maunganui, were another side to have a numbers of their senior team members sit on the sideline because of Steamers duty the day before. However Te Puke Sports meant business from the opening whistle, and led all the way posting a 30-20 victory.

Te Puke Sports took the Jordan Cup (Western BOP challenge trophy) from Mount Maunganui, and now sit comfortably in third place on the points ladder

Te Amo Wilbore who is one of the rising stars of age group rugby in the Bay of Plenty, led the way with three touchdowns, as Opotiki defeated a game Te Teko 32-29 in a real nail biter at Te Teko headquarters.

In the Division One competition, Waikite and Rangiuru both posted reasonably narrow wins over Kahukura and Greerton Marist respectively - to still sit well clear of the other teams on the points ledger.

Former Premier champion Ngongotaha moved into third position when they waltzed away from Marist St Michaels 23 nil, with Paroa winning the Eastern Bay derby against Ruatoki 29-22.

While the final score in the Baywide Colts game, between competition leaders Te Puke Sports and Greerton Marist would suggest an easy Te Puke victory - Te Puke only broke clear in the last quarter to post a 31-17 victory.

Greerton led 10 nil early in the match, before the scores were locked at 10 all at half time. At 21-17 Te Puke held a narrow lead, before they broke clear in the last quarter to take out the match 31-17.

Bartercard Baywide Rugby Results 10 June 2010

Baywide Premier
Whakarewarewa 30 (Steven Schenk, Kelly Haimona, Hayden Baird tries; Haimona 3 pens 3 con) Rotoiti 17 (Joseveta Tawake, Maka Royal tries; Joe Fenton con pen, Sikeli Voranasu pen con)
Opotiki 32 (Te Amo Wilbore 3, Francis Cameron tries; Sam Howe 3 con 2 pens) Te Teko 29
Te Puke Sports 30 (Simon Rolleston, Conrad Donaldson, Mark Nicolaas, Aaron Sutherland tries; Sutherland 2 pen 2 con) Mount Maunganui 20 (Zar Lawrence 2, Peter Maisey tries; Maisey dg Sam Jurisich con)
Rangataua 22 (Tali Veikoso, Tamaiti Fraser, Quinton Gardiner tries; Alex Jessop pen con, John Ririnui con) Te Puna 20 (Aiden Kuka, Taimonia Tata, Vance Bidois tries; Darrell Houia pen con)
Whakatane Marist 29 (Tom Grant, A Tetou tries; Craig Edwards 5 pens 2 cons) Tauranga Sports 22
Premier Points Table
Tauranga Sports 61, Mount Maunganui 57. Te Puke Sports 50, Rotoiti 48, Whakarewarewa 42, Rangataua 41, Opotiki 33, Te Puna 28, Whakatane Marist 30, Te Teko 17.

Division One: Rangiuru 25 Greerton Marist 22, Waikite 24 Kahukura 16, Paroa 29 Ruatoki 22, Ngongotaha 23 Marist St Michaels 0.
Points Table
Waikite 70, Rangiuru 63, Ngongotaha 44, Kahukura 39, Greerton Marist 37, Reporoa 30, Paroa 33, Ruatoki 21, Marist St Michaels 19.
Colts:
Division One: Te Puke Sports 31 Greerton Marist 17, Opotiki 13 Ngongotaha 11, Tauranga Sports 28 Mount Maunganui 13.
Division Two; Te Puna 24 Te Teko 20, Marist St Michaels 14 Rangataua 10, Rotoiti won by default.

For further information contact:
Mike Rogers BOPRU Operations Manager
DDI 07 927 1316 029 478 4292

A SENSE OF URGENY IN THE BAYWIDE PREMIER RANKS

Mon, 12 Jul 2010 10:15:42 +0100

Bartercard Baywide Rugby Preview 8 July 2010

With three of the top four sides suffering defeat in the Bartercard Baywide Premier division last weekend, there is a new sense of urgency in several of the top echelon match-ups this Saturday (10 July 2010)

There is likely to be no more vital encounter this weekend, than the game between Rotorua archrivals Whakarewarewa and Rotoiti. Both sides have experienced a roller coaster ride in the Premier title race this season.

Rotoiti who were in the top two for the early rounds, have slipped of the pace a little, and haven’t posted a victory since the last weekend in May. However they still sit in third place, and have a ten-point advantage from Whakarewarewa.

By contrast Whaka made comparative slow start to the season, mixing some big wins with a several surprise defeats. Making the Whaka sides mission more difficult, is that they must pay a visit the cauldron at Emery Park, where a multitude of passionate Rotoiti supporters will be on hand.

Another key match-up will take place at Murray Salt Stadium, where Te Puke Sports who sit in fourth place, host Mount Maunganui. The visitors have been in rampant form in recent weeks and lurk just behind competition leaders Tauranga Sports.

A Mount Maunganui victory, would put real pressure on Te Puke Sports who are perennial semi-finalists, especially if Whaka and Rangataua post victories.

In the Western Bay one of the real long-time rivalries, will be fought out at Maramatanga Park, when Te Puna host Rangataua. In recent years there has been little to separate the two teams when they meet, with the home side often gaining the ascendancy.

Competition leaders Tauranga Sports, who will be seeking to rebound from last weekends loss to Mount Maunganui, will be wary of Whakatane Marist who upset Rotoiti last week. Eastern Bay pride will be on the line when Te Teko and Opotiki meet at Dunderdale Park.

In Division One, the Waikite teams unbeaten run could be under siege from Kahukura, who have climbed up the point’s ladder in recent weeks. Second placed Rangiuru will engage in a local derby with Greerton Marist.

Former Baywide heavyweight Ngongotaha will be favoured to defeat Marist St Michaels, with Paroa and Ruatoki likely to have a close encounter at Tuhoe Park.

Colts front-runners Te Pukes Sports will meet Greerton Marist for the second time in three weeks. The first encounter resulted in Te Puke Sports annexing the Baywide first round crown, when they beat their championship rivals 22-15 at Murray Salt Stadium.

Tauranga Sports and Mount Maunganui will go head to head in the curtainraiser at the Tauranga Domain, with former Colts titleholders Ngongotaha favoured to beat Opotiki.

BOPRU Bartercard Baywide Draws 10 July 2010

Premier (2.45pm) Rotoiti v Whakarewarewa, Emery Park; Tauranga Sports v Whakatane Marist, Tauranga Domain; Te Puna v Rangataua, Maramatanga Park; Te Teko v Opotiki, Dunderdale Park; Te Puke Sports v Mount Maunganui, Murray Salt Stadium.
Premier Points Table
Tauranga Sports 60, Mount Maunganui 57. Rotoiti 48, Te Puke Sports 45, Whakarewarewa 38, Rangataua 37, Opotiki 28, Te Puna 27, Whakatane Marist 26, Te Teko 16.

Division One (2.45pm) Greerton Marist v Rangiuru, Greerton Park; Waikite v Kahukura, Bellvue Road; Ruatoki v Paroa, Tuhoe Park; Marist St Michaels v Ngongotaha, Marist Park; Reporoa the bye.
Points Table
Waikite 66, Rangiuru 59, Kahukura 39, Ngongotaha 39, Greerton Marist 36, Reporoa 30, Paroa 28, Ruatoki 20, Marist St Michaels 19.

Colts (1pm)
Division One: Greerton Marist v Te Puke Sports, Greerton Park; Tauranga Sports v Mount Maunganui, Tauranga Domain; Opotiki v Ngongotaha, Opotiki Reserve.
Division Two: Te Teko v Te Puna, Dunderdale Park; Marist St Michaels v Rangataua, Marist Park; Rotoiti v Whakatane Marist, Emery Park; Whakarewarewa the bye.

For further information contact:
Mike Rogers BOPRU Operations Manager
DDI 07 927 1316 029 478 4292

STEAMERS DEFEAT MANAWATU IN REPOROA

Mon, 12 Jul 2010 10:05:46 +0100

Media Release 10 July 2010

The Bay of Plenty Steamers won their first warm-up encounter of the 2010 season, when they
defeated the Manawatu Turbo’s in Reporoa, on Friday (9 July 2010) afternoon.

The opening Steamers try came early in the encounter, when halfback Chad Tuoro crossed for the first of five Steamers touchdowns. More pressure from the home side resulted in Ben Smith and Grant McQuoid crossing for further tries.

With Dan Waenga converting all three tries, the Steamers led 21-3 at the half time break. The visitor’s points came from a penalty from Craig Clare.

Halfway through the second spell, replacement back Phil Burleigh finished of a Steamers back line movement to cross for the Steamers fourth try, with Nick McCashin slotting the conversion.

Ten minutes later Manawatu half back Karl Bryson scored the visitors only try, which was converted by Tomasi Cama.

With full time approaching the Steamers were still testing the opposition line, and were rewarded when Lance MacDonald stolled over, for his sides fifth touchdown. With the conversion from Nick McCashin sailing between the uprights – the referee called full time with the scoreboard showing that the Steamers had triumphed 35-10.

A real pleasing feature of the Steamers victory was the pin point goal kicking. Five from five conversions successes from Dan Waenga and Nick McCashin, augurs well for the teams ITM Cup campaign.

The Steamers squad will have little time for rest as they turn their attention to the next pre-season encounter on Wednesday (14 July 2010). The Hawkes Bay Magpies in Napier are next on the list, as the Bay of Plenty team prepares for the rigors of the ITM Cup.

Result

BOP Steamers 35 (Chad Tuoro, Grant McQuoid, Ben Smith, Phil Burleigh, Lance MacDonald; Dan Waenga 3 cons, Nick McCashin 2 con) Manawatu 10 (Karl Byden try; Tomasi Cama con, Craig Clare pen)

2010 Steamers Pre-Season Games

14 July v Hawkes Bay at Napier
23 July v Taranaki at Whakatane

For Further Information Contact
Mike Rogers BOPRU Operations Manager
DDI 07 927 1316 029 478 4292

STEAMERS SET TO SHINE IN REPOROA

Thu, 08 Jul 2010 12:34:01 +0100

Media Release 7 July 2010

The Bay of Plenty Steamers kick of their preparations for the ITM Cup, with a warm-up match against Manawatu in the extremities of Bay Rugby on Friday (9 July 2010).

For the first time the Steamers will be play their warm-up up encounter at the Reporoa Rugby Club in Reporoa. Bay of Plenty Rugby Union CEO Jeremy Curragh said “The Steamers game in Reporoa is part of the Bay Unions philosophy to take the Steamers to the regions, and to make the Bay flagship representatives as assessable as possible”.

The match at the Reporoa Rugby Club is the first of three preliminary games, as the Steamers prepare for the rigours of an ITM Cup campaign, that will stretch from the last week in July until late October. In keeping with the rural location, the match day sponsor is Balance Agri Nutrients

A number of new recruits to the Steamers, will make their debut in the Bay of Plenty uniform in Reporoa. One player that has gone on a points blitz in premier club rugby since arriving in the Bay earlier this year is Dan Waenga. The talented first five who can kick at goal with pinpoint accuracy, has also run in a number of touchdowns for the Mount Maunganui Premiers.

Another Steamers debutant is returning to a playing field that he knows like the back of his hand. This time last year Sam Cane was playing for Reporoa College in the top echelon of Baywide Secondary School rugby. The youngsters undoubted skills were recognised last season, when he earned selection in the New Zealand Secondary School side that played their Australian counterparts

With regular captain Colin Bourke being rested for the pre-season encounter, the skipper’s reigns have been handed to Luke Braid. The dynamic flanker is sure to lead his troops from the front throughout the game.

Former Steamer Simon Chisholm has earned a call-up to the bench with solid performances in Baywide club rugby. It will be a busy few days for the rake who fronted for the Bay of Plenty Wasps against Counties Manukau on Wednesday in Katikati.

Bay of Plenty Steamers v Manawatu – 2.30pm Kick Off. Reporoa Rugby Club.

1 Tristan Moran 2 John Pareanga 3 Josh Hohneck 4 Aidan Kuka 5 Culum Retallick 6 Luke Andrews 7 Sam Cane 8 Luke Braid (captain) 9 Chad Tuoro 10 Dan Waenga 11 Ben Smith 12 Grant McQuoid 13 Brett Mather 14 Lance Mac Donald 15 Toby Arnold.
Reserves: Simon Chisholm, Joe Savage, Luke Katene, Chris Elvin, Phil Burleigh, Nic McCashin, Jason Hona
Head Coach: Sean Horan Assistant Coach: Steve Miln Manager: Ross Everiss

2010 Steamers Pre-Season Games

9 July v Manawatu at Reporoa @2.30pm
14 July v Hawkes Bay at Napier
23 July v Taranaki at Whakatane @3pm

For Further Information Contact

Mike Rogers BOPRU Operations Manager
DDI 07 927 1316 029 478 4292

WASPS SELECT A BALANCED LINE-UP TO FACE COUNTIES- MANUKAU IN KATIKATI

Tue, 06 Jul 2010 16:28:51 +0100

Media Release 6 July 2010

The Bay of Plenty Wasps who will take on Counties Manukau on Wednesday at Moore Park in Katikati on Wednesday (7 July 2010) have named a mixture of youth and experience in their line-up.

For the third successive year, the BOP Wasps have given their support to the Bay of Plenty Rugby pre-season representative preparations. The Wasps Club is a group of former Bay of Plenty players and administrators who foster and support rugby in the region

One youngster in the Wasps squad is Carl Axtens, who was a pupil at Reporoa College this time last year. The Reporoa loose forward earned selection in the New Zealand Secondary Schools team last year, after earlier making the New Zealand Under 17 squad.

Axtens graduated to National selection, by way of the Bay of Plenty rugby pathway of age group representative teams, which is the same path that has taken Tanerau Latimer to All Black selection.

A number of the Wasps team to face Counties Manukau, earned selection from strong performances in the recent PGG Wrightson Sub-Union series. Steven Schenk made his mark in the Sub-Union series being awarded one of the three player of the match trophies.

There is also plenty of experience in the side to meet Counties Manukau. Former Steamers Wayne Hughson and Aaron Rameka won’t be fazed by the Counties squad, who are preparing for the ITM Cup.

The side has an abundance of quality goal kickers in the squad. Kelly Haimaona has been a prolific points scorer in Bay of Plenty club and representative rugby for a number of seasons, with Rotoiti youngster Whakataki Cunningham one of the form kickers in Premier club rugby this year.

Bay of Plenty Wasps Squad v Counties Manukau 7 July 2010 at Moore Park Katikati @3pm
Daniel Schuster, Simon Chisholm (captain) Mark Nicolaas, Mata McGrath, Aron Rameka, Steven Schenk, Chris Elvin, Callum Armstrong, Chris Van der Vlught, Kelly Haimona, Sikeli Bola, Zion Nordstrom, Wayne Hughson, Paula Asaeli, Steven Honey, Hori Leef, Pingi Talapitaaga, Cori Marsters, Sam Mayes, Carl Axtens, Adam Robinson, Steven Wallace, Whakataki Cunningham, Doug Edwards. Afai Eseru.

Head Coach: Clayton McMillan Assistant Coach: Rodney Gibbs
Manager: Bruce Buckton Assistant Manager. Paul Fairweather
Trainer: Abby Galenoski Physio: Cory Stunell

For Further Information Contact
Mike Rogers BOPRU Operations Manager
DDI 07 927 1316 029 478 4292

BOP POLYTECHNIC GIRLS RUGBY FINAL WEEKS DRAW & TOURNAMENT DETAILS

Tue, 06 Jul 2010 10:45:53 +0100

BOP POLYTECHNIC GIRLS RUGBY FINAL WEEKS DRAW & TOURNAMENT DETAILS

Finals Day will be held at the Tauranga Domain on WEDNESDAY 4th AUGUST.

Game 1. Nine v Ten Game to start at 10.00am
Game 2. Losers of games 3 and 4 ***21st July game Game to start at 11.00am
Game 3. Winners of games 3 and 4 ***21st July game Game to start at 12.00
Game 4. Losers of games 1 and 2 ***21st July game Game to start at 1.00pm
Game 5. Winners of games 1 and 2 ***21st July game Game to start at 2.00pm

All games will be 25 minutes each way. All other rules as have been played during this season to apply.

Trophies and certificates will be presented immediately after Game 5.

NOTE. If any school is not going to participate in Finals day or the preliminary games need to inform Mike Nitz or Nichola @ BOPRU

Games for the lead-up to finals day are taken from teams position on the ladder at the end of term 2 and will be as follows:

Game 1. First v Fourth
Game 2. Second v Third
Game 3. Fifth v Eighth
Game 4. Sixth v Seventh

Nine v Ten play against each other on Finals Day only.

As at 2nd July, the above would look like:

Edgecumbe v Rotorua Girls
Taupo/Tauhara v Western Heights
Tauranga Girls v Whakatane High
Trident v Te Puke High

First named team has the home advantage

Tongariro v Opotiki to be played on Finals Day.

These games to be played on Wednesday 21st JULY.

Thanks Mike Nitz for putting this together.

Nichola Edwards
Rugby Administrator For Schools (RAFS) - Western Bay

BAY PROUD!
Celebrating 99 years of Rugby in the Bay!

BOP Rugby Union Inc.
PO Box 4058
Mt Maunganui South
Fax: 07 5742046
Mob: 027 3515549
nichola@boprugby.co.nz
www.boprugby.co.nz

2010 BAY OF PLENTY STEAMERS SET TO FIRE

Thu, 01 Jul 2010 09:34:26 +0100

Media Release 1 July 2010

The Bay of Plenty Steamers squad for the 2010 ITM Cup has a balanced look with the nucleus of last year’s team, and a number of new recruits to provide additional strength in key positions.

Steamers Head Coach Sean Horan and Assistant Coach Steve Miln has selected a squad with a multitude of ITM Cup experience.

One key signing is All Black Lelia Masaga, who will add to the out side back skills of Ben Smith, Lance MacDonald, Jason Hona and Toby Arnold, who have all previously worn the Bay of Plenty strip.

Two key players during the thirteen match ITM Cup campaign, are likely to be Tanerau Latimer and Mike Delaney, who received All Black call-ups last year. Latimer thrilled his army of Rangiuru (Te Puke) Club fans a couple of weeks ago, when he turned out for his club team in a Baywide Division One match at Jamieson Oval.

Last season the Steamers front row matched it with the big guns of the competition. New recruits Tristan Moran and Daniel Perrin, will join experienced Steamers campaigners James McGougan, Joe Savage, Josh Hohneck and John Pareanga.

One player, who has been in rampant form in the Bartercard Baywide Premier club competition, is former Reporoa College youngster Sam Cane. The rising star who was selected for New Zealand Secondary Schools side last season, will provide extra firepower to what was one of the best loose forward units in the country last season.

Luke Braid, Solomon King, Tanerau Latimer played havoc with the ball in hand last year. Coupled with Colin Bourke from the back of the scrum, the Steamers have a loose forward unit that should trouble the other ITM Cup contenders.

Bay of Plenty Steamers

Forwards: James McGougan, Joe Savage, Josh Hohneck, Tristan Moran, Daniel Perrin, John Pareanga, Cullum Rettalick, John Moore, Luke Andrews, Colin Bourke (captain) Luke Braid, Sam Cane, Solomon King, Tanerau Latimer.
Backs: Josh Hall, Dan Waenga, Mike Delany. Nick McCashin, Brett Mather, Cory Aporo, Grant McQuoid, Phil Burleigh, Ben Smith, Jason Hona, Lance MacDonald, Leilia Masaga, Toby Arnold.

Additional players to train with the squad. Aidan Kuka, Luke Katene, Chad Tuoro.

Head Coach: Sean Horan Assistant Coach: Steve Miln Manager: Ross Everiss

2010 Steamers Pre-Season Games
9 July v Manawatu at Reporoa
14 July v Hawkes Bay at Napier
23 July v Taranaki at Whakatane

For Further Information Contact
Mike Rogers BOPRU Operations Manager
DDI 07 927 1316 029 478 4292

RIPPA RUGBY WORLD CUP TO TAKE CENTRE STAGE IN THE EASTERN BAY OF PLENTY

Mon, 28 Jun 2010 14:41:02 +0100

Media Release 25 June 2010

A considerable number of rugby mad Eastern Bay of Plenty youngsters can’t wait until the Rippa Rugby World Cup arrives in Whakatane on Thursday the 1st July 2010.

The Bay of Plenty Rugby Union is taking the Rippa Rugby World Cup, which has taken Rotorua and Western Bay by storm, to the Eastern Bay for the first time.

While the Eastern Bay schools will be chasing the championship trophies on offer – an extra reward for the top two teams in each of the two divisions, is a place in the Bay of Plenty Final to be played at Paengaroa on the 4th August 2010.

A real sense of occasion is brought to the tournament, with each school representing a rugby playing country. To add to the excitement, teams wear a shirt with the Bay Rugby logo on the front and the country name on the back.

Twenty-four Western Bay schools have entered the Eastern Bay of Plenty Rippa Rugby World Cup, which is staged by the Bay of Plenty Rugby Union, with support from Sport Bay of Plenty.

The Eastern Bay Rippa Rugby World Cup brings together schools from both town and country. Whakatane and Opotiki town schools will be rubbing shoulders with their country cousins.

One group that is traveling a real distance to compete, is Raukokore School from the East Coast which featured in the movie “Boy” - which has been a recent box office hit with New Zealand movie-goers

Rippa Rugby has two fundamental objectives. The first is for team to score a try by grounding the ball on or behind the opposition line. A try is worth one point

Defense is the second basic objective, where the opposition is prevented from touching down a try. To prevent a try, the defensive team must rip a flag from the belt of the ball carrier. Six rips result in the ball being turned over to the defensive team.

Each participating school has a team apiece in the year the Year three & four and Year five & six divisions. Each team must have a minimum of two girls in their ranks.

Eastern BOP Participating Teams
Apanui School (New Zealand) Opotiki Primary (South Africa) James St Primary (Australia) Waimana (Ireland) Te Whanau a Apanui (France) St Josephs Whakatane (England) Ohope Beach (Argentina) Ashbrook (Wales) Whakatane SDA (Scotland) Otakiri (Fiji) Waiotahe (Italy) Paroa (Samoa) Ruakokore (Japan) Omarumutu (Canada) Taneatua (Tonga) Thornton (USA) Kutarere (Georgia) Woodlands (Russia) Putauaki (Romania) Rangitaiki Independent (Uruquay) Alandale (Portugal) Te Kura O Torere (Namibia) Te Kura O Teko (Spain) Kawerau Central (Chile)

For further information contact:
Mike Rogers BOPRU Operations Manager
DDI 07 927 1316 029 478 4292

WASPS DEFEAT HARLEQUINS IN THE WAIKATO

Thu, 24 Jun 2010 13:34:41 +0100

Media Release 24 June 2010

The Bay of Plenty Wasps emerged from the game with the Waikato based Harlequins on Wednesday (23 June 2010) with a solid victory.

Played under lights at Hinuera, the first half went point for point, with the Waikato selected team taking a narrow 19-17 lead into the half time break.

The second half was a battle of attrition. with the score locked up at 22 all as the clock ticked down. In the 78th minute of the match Zion Nordstrom broke the deadlock when he touched down out wide.

Two minutes later came the try of the match, when Zar Lawrence showed all his strength and experience to crash over for the Wasps fifth touchdown. With Dan Waenga conversion sailing between the posts the Bay representatives walked from the paddock with a 36-22 victory.

The other Wasps points came from two tries to New Zealand Sevens representative Toby Arnold who picked up a double and Lance MacDonald. with Waenga adding four conversions and a penalty goal.

Team management singled out the leadership of Solomon King who led his fellow loose forwards of Sam Cane and Steven Schenk from the front.

Result

BOP Wasps 26 (Toby Arnold 2, Lance MacDonald, Zion Nordstrom, Zar Lawrence tries; Dan Waenga 4 con pen) Harlequins 22

For further information contact:
Mike Rogers BOPRU Operations Manager
DDI 07 927 1316 029 478 4292

POPULAR RUGBY HOLIDAY PROGRAM RETURNS

Tue, 22 Jun 2010 11:15:10 +0100

Media Release 21 June 2010

While there are a myriad of school holiday programmes available for young people in the Bay of Plenty – The Bay of Plenty Rugby Union offers the regions rugby mad youngsters a chance to improve their rugby skills while having a heap of fun

Such was the success of the Bay of Plenty Rugby holiday program at the end of term one, that the rugby orientated holiday program will return in the July holiday break, in three Bay of Plenty regions.

The rugby holiday program will go tour, with the first port of call being Rotorua on the 8th and 9th of July 2010. The following week will flat out for the Bay Rugby personnel delivering the program, with visits to Mount Maunganui on the 12th and 13th, with the July program signing off in Whakatane on the15th and 16th of the month.

The BOPRU holiday program is designed to teach youngsters between seven and twelve years of age the fundamental skills of rugby. There is a strong emphasis on the rugby mad participants, having fun times, as well as learning new skills.

Positive feedback from parents of the initial Bay of Plenty Rugby holiday program, will see some emphasis on tackling and defence, in the July program – with the likelihood of sevens rugby to round out the three regional programs

There is an opportunity for Bay of Plenty businesses, to sponsor a potential Steamer of future at each of the three venues. For just sixty dollars (thirty dollars a day), local businesses can give youngsters an experience that they will treasure.

Both the application and sponsorship forms can be down loaded from the BOPRU website http://www.boprugby.co.nz/Holiday-Program or ringing Kane Hames (BOPRU Rugby Development Officer) on 07 574 2037 or 029 471 2696.

Bay of Plenty Rugby Union Holiday Program

8th & 9th July Central BOP - Kahukura Rugby Club, Rotorua
12th & 13th July Western BOP - Blake Park, Mount Maunganui
15th & 16th July Eastern BOP – Rugby Park, Whakatane

For further information contact:
Mike Rogers BOPRU Operations Manager
DDI 07 927 1316 029 478 4292

WHAKAREWAREWA AND RANGATAUA STAY IN CONTENTION

Mon, 21 Jun 2010 13:29:23 +0100

Bartercard Baywide Rugby Review 20 June 2010

Whakarewarewa and Rangataua both remained in the race for the Bartercard Baywide Premier playoffs on Saturday (19 June 2010), albeit in contrasting circumstances.

For the second occasion in three weeks Whakarewarewa posted a cricket score - when they ran eleven tries on there way to defeating Te Puna, at Whaka headquarters. However it wasn’t all one-way traffic with the Western Bay visitors grabbing six touchdowns.

Doug Edwards increased his lead in the Premier try scoring stakes, with a remarkable four touchdowns (to sit on 15 for the season) as Whakarewarewa took out the encounter 71-36. Hayden Baird picked up a treble, Trent Vatselias grabbed a double with Trent Sweeney, Aliki Kisina also dotting down.

Six individual tries were awarded to Te Puna with Pomare Pearson, Tajohyn Malata, Aidan Kuka, Daniel Schuster, Darrell Houia and John Pareanga going onto the score sheet.

At Te Ariki Park in the Western Bay, Rangataua ground out a win over Rotoiti to stay in the hunt for a semi-finals berth. The visitors held the advantage during most of the first half, with Luther Robinson crossing for Rotoiti try after eight minutes.

Down 3-7 at the break, the home side knuckled down in the second spell to play the game in the visitors half. An Ashley Mason try put the home team in front, with a long range penalty to John Ririnui sealing a 13-7 Rangataua victory.

Defending title holders Tauranga Sports came home from the Eastern Bay of Plenty with a 39-12 victory over Opotiki, Te Puke were made to battle by cellar dwellers Te Teko before grabbing a 27-20 win, and Mount Maunganui ran away from Whakatane Marist 68-25.

The Division One top of the table clash between competition leaders Waikite and Rangiuru turned out to be a real thriller. While Rangiuru established a 27-15 lead - Waikite roared back into the match, with the final score being a 27 all draw.

Paroa moved up the table when they upset Ngongotaha 18-11 at Lawson Park. Kahukura defeated Greerton Marist 34-20, with Reporoa proving too strong for Marist St Michaels winning 20-5.

Te Puke Sports retained their lead in the Colts Division with a 32 nil win over Marist St Michaels. Greerton Marist maintained their season unbeaten record defeating Opotiki 33-23 - with Mount Maunganui running away from Te Puna 59 nil, and Ngongotaha getting home against Rangatau 39-12.

Bartercard Baywide Rugby Results 19 June 2010

Premier
Rangataua 13 (Ashley Mason try; John Ririnui pen con, Alex Jessop pen) Rotoiti 7 (Luther Robinson try, Whakataki Cunningham con).

Te Puke Sports 27 (Luke Perrott 2, Mark Nicolaas, Josh Harrison tries; Aaron Sutherland 2con pen) Te Teko 20 (Miru Young, Don Te Maipi tries; Jay Jay Reneti 2pen 2con). HT: 0-6.

Whakarewarewa 71 (Doug Edwards 4, Hayden Baird 3, Trent Vatselias 2, Trent Sweeney, Aliki Kisina tries; Kelly Haimona 8con) Te Puna 36 (Pomare Pearson, Tajhon Mailata, Aidan Kuka, Daniel Schuster, Darrell Houia, John Pareanga tries; Mailata 2con, Schuster con). HT: 49-14.

Mount Maunganui 68 (Grant McQuoid 3, Chad Jacobs 2, Dan Waenga 2, Zar Lawrence, Cory Aporo, Luke Katene tries; Waenga 9con) Whakatane Marist 25 (Abe Tito 2, Kite Paonga, Alamoti Te Pou tries; Craig Edwards pen con).

Tauranga Sports 39 (Matt Hodson 2, Kent Rae, Toby Arnold, Phil Burleigh, Steve Honey tries; Burleigh 3con pen) Opotiki 12 (James Thompson, George Takamore tries; Sam Howe con).

Premier Points Tables
Tauranga Sports 58, Mount Maunganui 48, Rotoiti 44, Te Puke Sports 41, Whakarewarewa 32, Rangataua 31, Opotiki 24, Te Puna 22, Whakatane Marist 18, Te Teko 12.

Division One: Rangiuru 27 Waikite 27, Reporoa 20 Marist St Michaels 5, Paroa 18 Ngongotaha 11, Kahukura 34 Greerton Marist 20.

Colts: Greerton Marist 33 Opotiki 23, Ngongotaha 39 Rangataua 12, Mount Maunganui 59 Te Puna 0, Te Puke Sports 32 Marist St Michaels 0.

For further information contact:
Mike Rogers BOPRU Operations Manager
DDI 07 927 1316 029 478 4292

Recruitment: BOPRU – Community Rugby Coaching Coordinator

Tue, 15 Jun 2010 14:16:10 +0100

The Bay of Plenty Rugby Football Union invites applications for the above position.

Reporting to the Community Rugby Team Leader, we are looking for self motivated, organised and time focused individuals with a strong background in rugby.

This is a great opportunity to join our BOPRU team of rugby professionals working within the wider Bay of Plenty area.

The Community Rugby Coaching Coordinator will be a key member of the Community Rugby Team, ensuring that the Bay of Plenty Rugby Union continues to set the standard for innovation and success of rugby development in New Zealand.

The key responsibility of this position is to build strong relationships between Clubs and Schools within the province and to provide growth and development opportunities for all coaches from Small Blacks to High Performance.

The successful candidate will possess the following skills and attributes:

A passion for rugby.
Strong planning and analytical skills.
Effective organisational and time management skills.
Sound technical and tactical knowledge of the game.
Adept at developing, coordinating and delivering coach programmes at all levels.
Work effectively in a team environment.
Event Management skills.

For a copy of the job description, please contact Morag Ball, Operations Administrator, at Bay of Plenty Rugby on 07 927 1318 or email morag@boprugby.co.nz.

Applications should be sent via email to morag@boprugby.co.nz or post to:

Community Rugby Coaching Coordinator Position
Bay of Plenty Rugby Football Union
PO Box 4058
Mount Maunganui Sth 3149

Applications for this position close on Wednesday 23 June, 2009 at 5.00pm.

WASPS NAME A STRONG LINE-UP

Mon, 14 Jun 2010 16:12:36 +0100

Media Release 11 June 2010

A strong line-up, selected from the recent PGG Wrightson Sub-Union series, will represent the Bay of Plenty Wasps when they take on the (Waikato) Harlequins in their annual match-up.

The game to be played under lights at Hinuera on the 23rd June 2010 is another step in the selection process for the 2010 Bay of Plenty Steamers, who will contest the ITM Cup, which kicks off in late July 2010.

For the third successive year, the BOP Wasps have given their support to the selection process to choose the Steamers. The Wasps Club is a group of former Bay of Plenty players and administrators who foster and support rugby in the region.

The Wasps selection is balanced mixture, of Bay of Plenty stalwarts who can call on their experience in the top echelon of Baywide club rugby – and a number of newcomers who are seeking to break into the Steamers.

One player who put his hand up in the Sub-Union series was Aiden Kuka. The Te Puna club stalwart captained the Western Bay side that annexed the Te Hurinui Apanui Shield, in the 2010 Sub-Union encounters.

The Western Bay skipper led from the front, marshalling his troops with real enthusiasm, in the two matches against the Eastern Bay and Central Sub-Union teams. Leading from the front throughout the two games was rewarded when Aiden was awarded the PGG Wrightson Player of the Series.

Another player to impress during the Sub-Union games was Lance MacDonald. The Steamers player who sat on the sideline with injury for most of last season, made a real impact being named the player of the match, in the Western Bay game against Eastern Bay.

In charge of the Wasps selection will be a legend of Bay of Plenty Rugby. Clayton McMillan who played 113 games in the Bay uniform, will take charge of the Wasps side in Hinuera.

McMillan who has had a stint as the Steamers Manager, is the current Bay Development team coach, and has a close working relationship with Steamers head coach Sean Horan.

Bay of Plenty Wasps XV

Joe Savage, Steven Schenk, Paula Asaeli (Whakarewarewa) Zac Hohneck (Rotoiti) Matt Henwood (Opotiki Sports) Ted Tauroa, Luke Katene, Mata McGrath, Chris Elvin, Chad Tuoro, Dan Waenga, Zion Norstrom, Grant McQuoid, Lance MacDonald, Zar Lawrence (Mount Maunganui) Simon Chisholm, Solomon King (Te Puke Sports) Pingi Talapitaga, Dan Perrin, Sam Cane, Josh Hall, Matt Hodson, Toby Arnold (Tauranga Sports) Dan Schuster, Aidan Kuka, Tajohn Malata (Te Puna)

Coach Clayton McMillan

For further information contact:
Mike Rogers BOPRU Operations Manager
DDI 07 927 1316 029 478 4292

TE PUNA AND WHAKATANE MARIST POST VITAL VICTORIES

Mon, 14 Jun 2010 16:10:50 +0100

Bartercard Baywide Rugby Review 13 June 2010

Two of the teams in the relegation danger zone, posted victories in the Bartercard Baywide Premier competition on Saturday (12 June 2010), to give their sides a little more space from the bottom of the points ladder.

At Maramatanga Park, Te Puna finished with a seven-try victory against cellar dweller Te Teko. While the final whistle score line of 47-15 would suggest an easy victory, the reality was that the home side had to defend like Trojans, throughout much of the match.

Te Puna opening the scoring with a try to Daryll Houia in the opening minutes, before the Te Teko reply evened the score at seven apiece. After 30 minutes Tapene Mika dotted down for his first of three touchdowns, with Gray Gardiner touching down just before the break to see his team lead 21-7.

The try of the match came late in the encounter, when former Steamer Aiden Kuka made a solo run of some thirty metres to score. Te Puna sharp shooter Tajohn Malata converted six of the Te Puna tries. The Te Puna win gives the side some breathing space in the race to avoid relegation.

In the Eastern Bay Whakatane Marist won the local derby with Opotiki, to move five points clear of Te Teko in last place. In a game where both combatants had their chances Whakatane Marist got home 19-14, with Abe Tito grabbing two tries for the victors.

Defending Baywide titleholders Tauranga Sports moved ten points clear at the top of the table, when they repelled the challenge from Whakarewarewa. Flying winger Matt Hodson led the way for the home side victory grabbing two touchdowns, in the 29-16 win at Tauranga Sports headquarters.

In game that was described as the best played at Te Ariki Park for many a long time – visitors Mount Maunganui eked out a 23-15 win. With two tries apiece, the difference was Mount Maunganui kicker Dan Waenga, who calmly slotted three penalties and converted both tries.

Te Puke Sports re-inked their place in the top four, when they returned home from Emery Park with a narrow 21-19 win over Rotoiti, on their ledger card.

With competition leaders Waikite on the sideline courtesy of the bye, Rangiuru moved closer to the lead with a 22 nil win over Marist St Michaels in Rotorua. Reporoa raised a few eyebrows with their 25-10 victory over Ngongotaha, with Greerton Marist and Kahukura also posting victories.

In the Colts Division competition, front runners Te Puke Sports coasted to an easy victory against Te Teko, winning 65-12. Greerton Marist who lurk just a point behind Te Puke, also had a sold win defeating Whakarewarewa 55-5. The clash in two weeks time, between Te Puke and Greerton, is likely to decide the first round title.

Other age group teams to post victories, were Tauranga Sports who just got past Te Puna 15-8, Ngongataha upsetting Mount Maunganui 23-15, with Opotiki producing an old fashioned 5-3 score line on the way to defeating Marist St Michaels.

Bartercard Baywide Results 12 June 2010

Premier
Te Puna 47 (Tapene Mika 3, Gray Gardiner 2, Darrell Houia, Aidan Kuka tries; Tajhon Mailata 6cons) Te Teko 15 (Corey Hahipene, Matt Young tries; Young con pen). HT: 21-7.

Mount Maunganui 23 (Dan Waenga, Grant McQuoid tries; Waenga 3pen 2con) Rangataua 15 (Matua Parkinson 2 tries; John Ririnui pen con). HT: 6-0.

Te Puke Sports 21 (Nick McCashin, Mark Nicolaas tries; McCashin 3pen con) Rotoiti 19 (Sikeli Vorenasu, David Fraser, Mark Royal tries; Whakataki Cunningham 2con). HT: 15-5.

Whakatane Marist 19 (Abe Tito 2, Walter Treviranus tries; Craig Edwards 2con) Opotiki 14 (Te Amo Wilbore, Reece Simpson tries; Sam Howe 2con). HT: 14-7.

Tauranga Sports 29 (Matt Hodson 2, Toby Arnold, Callum Armstrong, Tristan Moran tries; Jason Karauria con, Nick Evemy con) Whakarewarewa 16 (Hamish Lockwood try; Kelly Haimona 3pen con). HT: 17-7.

Premier Points Tables
Tauranga Sports 53, Rotoiti 43, Mount Maunganui 43, Te Puke Sports 36, Rangataua 27, Whakarewarewa 27, Opotiki 24, Te Puna 21, Whakatane Marist 17, Te Teko 12.

Division One: Kahukura 44 Paroa 19, Reporoa 25 Ngongotaha 10, Rangiuru 22 Marist St Michaels 0, Greerton Marist 29 Ruatoki 7.
Colts: Tauranga Sports 15 Te Puna 8, Te Puke Sports 65 Te Teko 12, Greerton Marist 55 Whakarewarewa 5, Ngongotaha 23 Mount Maunganui 15, Opotiki 5 Marist St Michaels 3, Rotoiti won by default.

For further information contact:
Mike Rogers BOPRU Operations Manager
DDI 07 927 1316 029 478 4292

TWO SUB-UNION TROPHIES ON THE LINE IN TE PUKE

Tue, 08 Jun 2010 11:29:57 +0100

Press Release 8 June 2010

The 2010 PGG Wrightson BOPRU Sub-Union series, will be decided in a sudden death shoot-out at the Murray Salt Stadium in Te Puke on Wednesday (9 June 2010) evening.

With both Western Bay of Plenty and Central Sub-Union representative teams, having defeated Eastern Bay of Plenty - the victor from the Wednesday night encounter will lift aloft the Te Hurinui Apanui Shield in triumph.

The Colts final stanza will also decide the winner of the Shalfoon Shield, with both the Western Bay and Central sides having swept aside the Eastern Bay challenge.

The two trophies on the line at Murray Salt Stadium are long-time Bay of Plenty Rugby trophies. The Stewart Family from Whakatane presented the Te Hurinui Apanui Shield for Sub-Union competition in 1927. Bay of Plenty Sub-Union Colts side’s battle for the Shalfoon Shield, which dates back to the 1940’s.

This years series senior opener was taken out by Central, in a battle of attrition when they repelled the Eastern Bay challenge in Rotorua. The Rotorua representatives posted a 19 nil victory after leading by eight points at the half time break.

Last Wednesday the Western Bay side, set up the series decider with a 68-8 victory against Eastern Bay, in the fog at the Taneatua Domain.

With both Western Bay sides defending the respective Sub-Union trophies, the Colts will want to lead the way for their senior counterparts, by winning the Shalfoon trophy for the second successive season.

However the Central Colts side will be equally determined, with a real battle likely to take place before the Shield is lifted aloft in victory, when the referee signals full time.

PGG Wrightson Sub-Union Series
26 May 2010
Senior: Central 19 Eastern BOP 0.
Colts: Central 15 Eastern BOP 8.
2 June 2010
Senior: Western BOP 68 Eastern BOP 8.
Colts: Western BOP 53 Eastern BOP 8.

For further information contact:
Mike Rogers BOPRU Operations Manager
DDI 07 927 1316 029 478 4292

REPOROA COLLEGE TAKE OUT DIVISION TWO TITLE IN A THRILLER

Tue, 08 Jun 2010 11:21:43 +0100

Press Release 8 June 2010

A convoy of John Paul College supporters from Rotorua, joined a large crowd of Reporoa College followers, to witness what was in effect the final of the BOP Polytechnic Division Two first round competition.

The two teams who had emerged from either side of the second echelon draw, both took unbeaten records into the final stanza at Reporoa College.

From the opening whistle the match was evenly poised, with the advantage changing a number of times throughout the encounter. The visitors raced to an early courtesy of two penalties, before Reporoa roared back into the contest with a converted try, to take a paper-thin 7-6 advantage into the half time break.

Reporoa quickly took the ascendancy in the second half, running in two further touchdowns, to take what looked to be a match winning advantage.

However JPC were not done with, prop Patrick Aislabie crashing over for a try followed by Matt Temm dotting down in the corner. With the conversion successfully slotted by Trevor Fitzell, the visitors trailed by a solitary point with the clock ticking down.

Solid late match defence from Reporoa College, saw them take out a grand display of first fifteen rugby by the narrowness’ of margins, posting a 19-18 victory. For the home side Rico Flavell, CJ Carston and Liam Griffin scored tries with Ryan Hathaway adding two conversions.

Reporoa coach Steve Axtens praised the contributions of Matt Axtens, Rico Flavell, Keegan Reedy, Sam McDowell and Nic Pilcher. While JPC were naturally disappointed at the solitary point defeat, they will get their chance of revenge, with both teams earning promotion to the Division One championship.

Rotorua Boys High School first fifteen, warmed up for next weekends Division One first round decider, cruising to victory against Western Heights High School 57-10. Next weekend a mouth watering match-up will take place, when Rotorua Boys first fifteen meet their Tauranga Boys counterparts, to decide the Division One first round title.

Trident High School took out the Eastern Bay of Plenty local derby when they defeated Opotiki College 25-14 in a battle of attrition – while Rotorua Boys seconds got home against Te Puke High School 38-5.

Bay of Plenty Polytechnic Secondary Schools Rugby First Fifteen results 5 June 2010

Division One: Trident HS 25 Opotiki College 14, Rotorua BHS 1st XV 57 Western Heights HS 10 Rotorua BHS 2nd XV 38 Te Puke HS 5.

Division Two Championship Final: Reporoa College 19 John Paul College 18.
Ranking games: Otumoetai 40 Rotorua Lakes 12, Mount Maunganui 17 Rotorua BHS 12, Katikati 21 Edgecumbe 15.

Division Three: Taupo Nui A Tia 17 Aquinas 10.

For further information contact:
Mike Rogers BOPRU Operations Manager
DDI 07 927 1316 029 478 4292

BAYWIDE PREMIER TOP SIX EMERGES

Tue, 08 Jun 2010 11:14:35 +0100

Bartercard Baywide Rugby Review 6 June 2010

The genuine contenders in the Bartercard Baywide Premier competition have emerged, with six teams looking set to fight out the championship title race.

On Saturday (5 June 2010) Whakarewarewa, who have had an up and down season, laid down the challenge to the other contenders trouncing Whakatane Marist at Whaka headquarters 96-17.

Nine Whaka players dotted the ball down for five pointers during the encounter, with Chris van der Vlught and Doug Edwards grabbing three tries apiece. Trent Vatesilias, who has picked up his team kicking duties this season, was in sublime touch slotting nine conversions.

While the Eastern Bay visitors to Puarenga Park never gave up the fight, they had few answers to the Whaka firepower. The Whakarewarewa blitz now sees the Rotorua team lurking ominously in the middle of the point’s table.

Mount Maunganui also laid down the gauntlet to other teams with championship aspirations, providing Rotoiti with just their second defeat of the season. The first spell was reasonably close with the home side taking a 10-3 advantage into the break, before they cut loose in the last quarter, adding four further tries to take out the game 38-3.

For the victors Peter Maisey, Lance MacDonald, Grant McQuoid, Zion Norstrom and Chad Tuoro scored tries, with Dan Waenga converting all five touchdowns and slotting a penalty goal.

Defending Premier champions Tauranga Sports, continued their season long run at the top of the point’s ladder, when they repelled a real challenge from Te Teko in the Eastern Bay.

Te Teko belied their position at the bottom of the point’s ledger, to lead the visitors by sixteen at the break. However Tauranga got their act together in the second spell, to run in four tries. The real difference between the two sides, was Jason Karauria who kicked five conversions and a further two penalty goals.

Te Puke Sports continued their hold on fourth position, with a gritty 21-7 victory against Te Puna under lights on Friday evening – while Rangataua came away from Opotiki with a 24-15 win.

Waikite and Rangiuru who are the top two in Division One, both had to work reasonably hard for victory. Waikite came away from Ruatoki with a 36-19 win, while Rangiuru got past Ngongotaha 27-14.

Hosts Paroa and Greerton Marist were unable to be seperated posting a 19 all draw, with Kahukura sneaking past Reporoa 9-7 in Reporoa.

Colts leader Te Puke Sports demolished Whakatane Marist posting 130 unanswered points, with second placed Greerton Marist also in top form defeating Rangataua 72 nil.

Mount Maunganui had to dig deep against Rotoiti at Blake Park coming from a 17 point deficit at the break, before getting home 32-27. Other Colts side to post victories were Te Puna who defeated Marist St Michaels, Ngongotaha who squeezed home from Whakarewarewa 13-10 with Tauranga Sports beating Te Teko 58-15.

BOPRU Bartercard Baywide Results 5 June 2010

Premier
Mount Maunganui 38 (Peter Maisey, Lance MacDonald, Grant McQuoid, Zion Nordstrom, Chad Tuoro tries; Dan Waenga 5con pen) Rotoiti 3 (Whakataki Cunningham pen). HT: 10-3.

Tauranga Sports 41 (Jason Karauria 2, Keepa Mewett, Brendon Clark, Afai Esera tries; Karauria 5con 2pen) Te Teko 26 (Luke O'Brien, Cory Hahipene, Don te Maipi, Stan Mareikura tries; Scott Sutherland 3con). HT: 5-21.

Te Puke Sports 24 (Mark Nicolaas, Simon Rolleston, Josh Harrison tries; Nick McCashin 3con dg) Te Puna 7 (Taimania Tata try; Tajhon Mailata con). HT: 21-0.

Rangataua 24 (Timoti Gardiner, Alex Jessop, Adam McGarvey tries; John Ririnui 3con pen) Opotiki 15 (Kevin Waterson, George Takamori tries; Sam Howe pen con).

Whakarewarewa 96 (Chris van der Vlugt 3, Doug Edwards 3, Paula Asaeli 2, Trent Vatselias, Hayden Baird, Aliki Kisina, Theo Heta, Barney Te Kani, George Playle tries; Vatselias 9con, Kelly Haimona 3, Baird con) Whakatane Marist 17 (Simon Kolo'ofai, Logan Tutua, Abe Tito tries; Kite Poanga con).

Premier Points Tables
Tauranga Sports 48, Rotoiti 42, Mount Maunganui 39, Te Puke Sports 32, Rangataua 27, Whakarewarewa 27, Opotiki 23, Te Puna 16, Whakatane Marist 13, Te Teko 12.

Division One: Rangiuru 27 Ngongotaha 14, Waikite 36 Ruatoki 18, Paroa 19 Greerton Marist 19, Kahukura 9 Reporoa 7.

Colts: Te Puna 24 Marist St Michaels 10, Mount Maunganui 32 Rotoiti 27, Greerton Marist 72 Rangataua 0, Te Puke Sports 130 Whakatane Marist 0, Tauranga Sports 58 Te Teko 15, Ngongotaha 13 Whakarewarewa 10.

For further information contact:
Mike Rogers BOPRU Operations Manager
DDI 07 927 1316 029 478 4292

DIVISION TWO SHOWDOWN IN REPOROA

Tue, 08 Jun 2010 11:07:10 +0100

Press Release 4 June 2010

The showdown for the BOP Polytechnic first fifteen Division Two first round crown takes place on the extremities of the Bay of Plenty on Saturday (5 June 2010)

A large contingent of John Paul College supporters, are expected to journey to Reporoa to barrack for the Rotorua School, who will take on Reporoa College in the first round decider.

Both teams will enter what is likely to be a battle of attrition with season undefeated records. In what was effectively semi-finals last weekend, Reporoa defeated Tauranga Boys College 26-10 in Tauranga, with JPC winning a close contest against Whakatane High School 30-23.

In Division One, Rotorua Boys High first fifteen will warm for next weekends round one battle, against Tauranga Boys College firsts. This Saturday sees a showdown in Rotorua between the Rotorua Boys first team and Western Heights High School.

Over the decades both Rotorua Boys and Western Heights have produced a myriad of top-level players. There is always an intense rivalry on show, when the two Rotorua School who both have proud rugby histories, meet on the field of play.

In other Div One match-ups, an Eastern Bay local derby will take place, when Opotiki College host Trident HS - with Rotorua Boys second fifteen travelling to play Te Puke High School.

Bay of Plenty Polytechnic Secondary Schools Rugby First Fifteen Draws 5 June 2010 (Home team first)

Division One: Opotiki College v Trident HS, Rotorua BHS 1st XV v Western Heights HS, Rotorua BHS 2nd XV v Te Puke HS.

Division Two Championship Final
Reporoa College v John Paul College.
Ranking games
Whakatane v Tauranga BC, Otumoetai v Rotorua Lakes, Mount Maunganui v Rotorua BHS, Katikati v Edgecumbe.

Division Three: Tongariro v Bethlehem, Taupo Nui A Tia v Aquinas, Kawerau v Rangitahi.

For further information contact:
Mike Rogers BOPRU Operations Manager
DDI 07 927 1316 029 478 4292

BAYWIDE TITLE RACE CONTINUES THIS SATURDAY

Thu, 03 Jun 2010 14:56:50 +0100

Bartercard Baywide Rugby Preview 3 June 2010

The race for the Bartercard Baywide Premier championship silverware continues this Saturday (5 June 2010) with defending champions Tauranga Sports, holding a solitary one point advantage from Rotoiti.

Tauranga Sports, who have set their sights on an unparalleled four successive Baywide crowns, have just a solitary loss (to Rotoiti) on their ledger card. While Te Teko sit at the bottom of the points ladder, the Eastern Bay always provide a spirited challenge at home at Dunderdale Park.

Sitting just one point in arrears of Tauranga Sports, is Rotorua heavyweight Rotoiti. The lakesiders are likely to receive all they can handle, when Mount Maunganui pay a visit to Emery Park. In the first round Mount Maunganui provided the Rotorua side with there only loss, winning 32-26.

In other top echelon match-ups, Whakarewarewa will have revenge on their mind against Whakatane Marist, after a first round defeat. Te Puke Sports should be too good for Te Puna, with Rangataua having to battle to return home with any points against Opotiki.

Division One leaders Waikite could have a good battle with Ruatoki at Tuhoe Park, with second placed Rangiuru also likely to have to fight for victory, when Ngongotaha arrive in Te Puke.

Reporoa and Kahukura go head to head in the extremities of the Bay, with Paroa hosting Greerton Marist, while Marist St Michaels sit out the bye

In the Colts title race, top of the table Te Puke Sports will have little trouble with Whakatane Marist - while Greerton Marist who lurk just one point from the lead, are likely to overpower Rangataua.

Third placed Mount Maunganui could field a good challenge from Rotoiti, with Tauranga Sports likely to be too good for Te Teko. Te Puna host Marist St Michaels, with Whakarewarewa at home against last years champions Ngongotaha.

BOPRU Bartercard Baywide Draws 5 June 2010

Premier (2.45pm) Mount Maunganui v Rotoiti, Blake Park; Whakarewarewa v Whakatane Marist, Puarenga Park; Te Teko v Tauranga Sports, Dunderdale Park; Te Puke Sports v Te Puna, Murray Salt Stadium; Opotiki v Rangataua, Opotiki Reserve.
Premier Points Tables
Tauranga Sports 43, Rotoiti 42, Mount Maunganui 34, Te Puke Sports 28, Opotiki 23, Rangataua 23, Whakarewarewa 22, Te Puna 16, Whakatane Marist 13, Te Teko 11.

Division One (2.45pm) Ruatoki v Waikite, Tuhoe Park; Reporoa v Kahukura, Reporoa, Rangiuru v Ngongotaha, Jamieson Oval; Paroa v Greerton Marist, Lawson Park.

Colts (1pm) Te Puna v Marist St Michaels, Maramatanga Park; Mount Maunganui v Rotoiti, Blake Park; Whakatane Marist v Te Puke Sports, Rugby Park; Whakarewarewa v Ngongotaha, Puarenga Park; Greerton Marist v Rangataua, Greerton Park; Te Teko v Tauranga Sports, Dunderdale Park.

For further information contact:
Mike Rogers BOPRU Operations Manager
DDI 07 927 1316 029 478 4292

RIPPA RUGBY WORLD CUP HITS BLAKE PARK THIS FRIDAY

Thu, 03 Jun 2010 09:59:50 +0100

Media Release 2 June 2010

While forty-eight teams will kick off in the Western Bay Rippa Rugby World Cup, which is to be held at Blake Park this Friday (4 June 2010) – many of the sides will have aspirations to book a berth in the Bay of Plenty final, to be held on the 1st August

For the second successive year there will be a Bay of Plenty Grand Final, where the top four teams from each of the three Bay of Plenty regions, will battle to become Bay of Plenty Rippa Rugby champions.

The Western Bay competition follows the Rotorua tournament held in March 2010, with the inaugural Eastern Bay championship to be held 1st July 2010. The finale to the regional events will be held at Paengaroa Domain on the 1st August 2010.

Bay of Plenty Rugby Development Officer Kane Hames is responsible for delivering Rippa Rugby throughout the Bay of Plenty region. A bonus for each participating schools, is that Kane will deliver a coaching and development session at the school, during the year.

Rippa Rugby has two fundamental objectives. The first is for team to score a try by grounding the ball on or behind the opposition line. A try is worth one point

Twenty-four Western Bay schools have entered the regional Rippa Rugby World Cup, which is being held for the fourth time. The event is staged by the Bay of Plenty Rugby Union with support from Sport Bay of Plenty.

Each participating school has a team apiece in the year the Year three & four and Year five & six divisions. Each team must have a minimum of two girls in their ranks.

Western BOP Participating Teams

New Zealand (Katikati) South Africa (Mount Maunganui) Australia (Arataki) Ireland (Papamoa) France (Bethlehem College) England (St Mary’s) Argentina (Tauranga) Wales (Greenpark) Scotland (Pongokawa) Fiji (Welcome Bay) Italy (St Thomas More) Samoa (Maungatapu) Japan (Pahoia) Canada (Te Akau Ki Papamoa) USA (Fairhaven) Russia (Matua) Georgia (Bethlehem School) Romania (Pillans Point) Uruguay (Greerton Village) Portugal (Merivale) Spain (Selwyn Ridge) Namibia (Gate Pa) Cook Islands (Omanu)

For further information contact:
Mike Rogers BOPRU Operations Manager
DDI 07 927 1316 029 478 4292

HEARTLAND CHAMPIONSHIP 2010 SEASON DRAW

Tue, 01 Jun 2010 16:00:31 +0100

Click here to download Heartland Championship 2010 season draw

BAYWIDE TOP THREE LAY DOWN THE CHALLENGE

Mon, 31 May 2010 11:23:35 +0100

Bartercard Baywide Rugby Review 30 May 2010

The top three Bartercard Baywide Premier teams, laid down the challenge to the other contenders on Saturday (29 May 2010). Starting the second round of the championship title race, defending champions Tauranga Sports, Rotoiti and Mount Maunganui all posted big wins.

A the Tauranga Domain the expected close contest between Tauranga Sports and arch rivals Te Puke Sports, didn’t eventuate, with Tauranga Sports running in five tries in a 37-10 victory.

Jason Karauria had an outstanding day picking up two tries, and kicking three conversions and two penalty goals. The other Tauranga touchdowns were awarded to Matt Hodson, Sam Cane and Gareth Brown - with Ryan Lambert and Craig Donovan dotting down for the visitors.

Mount Maunganui who last won the Baywide Premier crown in 2005, showed that that they are serious about this seasons championship, with a seven tries to one blitz of Opotiki at Blake Park.

A try awarded to Sam Maisey from the opening kick-off saw the Mount in charge. However they had to repel several Opotiki attacks on the line late in the first half, to take a 19-3 lead into the break.

Three minutes into the second half Maisey grabbed his second touch down, with his side going on to post a 45-13 win. The other Mount tries were given to Grant McQuoid, Ted Tauroa, Tutere Waenga and Troye Elvin, with Dan Waenga kicking five conversions.

Rotoiti made a definitive statement at home at Emery Park with a 56-21 victory over Te Puna. The Rotoiti team who had posted a number of narrow wins in the first round cut loose with nine tries.

Rangataua sit comfortably in the middle of the points table after grabbing a narrow victory over Whakarewarewa at Te Ariki Park. The home side came from a 3-7 deficit at the half way stage, to grab a 14-10 win. The Eastern Bay local derby was taken out by Te Teko who got home from Whakatane Marist 19-14.

Jamieson Oval in Te Puke, experienced a rare treat when Rangiuru’s All Black Tanerau Latimer, turned out for his club, against Kahukura in a Division One match. The Te Puke based side cemented second place on the points table with a 28-13 win.

Waikite held on to their unbeaten record in a real nailbiter, squeezing home against Greerton Marist 9-5 at Greerton Park. Other Div One sides to emerge with victories were Marist St Michaels who defeated Ruatoki 30-19, and Reporoa getting past Paroa 28-19.

The two Baywide Colts front-runners both continued their winning streaks, albeit in contrasting circumstances. Te Puke Sports made no race of the game against Te Puna winning 42 nil.

Greerton Marist, who has been the surprise package of this year’s age group championship, had a real battle with Mount Maunganui before prevailing 19-10. Along with the victory Greerton also annexed the Oliver Cup (Western BOP challenge trophy), which had been held by Mount Maunganui since last season.

Bay of Plenty Rugby Results 29 May 2010

Baywide Premier:
Rangataua 14 (Ash Mason try; John Ririnui 3pen) Whakarewarewa 10 (Kelly Haimona try pen con).

Te Teko 19 (Luke O'Brien, Dan Godbold tries; Scott Sutherland 3pen) Whakatane Marist 14 (Kite Paonga try; Craig Edwards 3pen).

Rototiti 56 (Sikeli Vorenasu 3, Luke Cassidy 2, Josevata Tevake, Elijah Hira-Wilson, Luther Robinson, Kevin Guptil tries; Whakataki Cunningham 2con, pen, Vorenasu con, Joe Fenton con) Te Puna 21 Tai Maniatata, Hori Leef, Taroia Kuka tries; Tahjon Mailata 2 con, Daryll Houia con)

Tauranga Sports 37 (Jason Karauria 2, Matt Hodson, Sam Cane, Gareth Brown tries; J Karauria 3 con 2 pens) Te Puke Sports 10 (Ryan Lambert, Craig Donovan tries)

Mount Maunganui 45 (Sam Maisey 2, Grant McQuoid, Ted Tauroa, Tutere Waenga, Troye Elvin, James Riddell tries; Dan Waenga 5 cons) Opotiki 13

Points Tables
Tauranga Sports 43, Rotoiti 42, Mount Maunganui 34, Te Puke Sports 28, Opotiki 23, Rangataua 23, Whakarewarewa 22, Te Puna 16, Whakatane Marist 13, Te Teko 11.

Division One: Waikite 9 Greerton Marist 5, Reporoa 28 Paroa 19, Rangiuru 28 Kahukura 13, Marist St Michaels 30 Ruatoki 19.

Colts: Te Puke Sports 42 Te Puna 0, Greerton Marist 19 Mount Maunganui 10. Te Teko 69 Whakatane Marist 0, Marist St Michaels 14 Whakarewarewa 5, Tauranga Sports 52 Rotoiti 32, Ngongotaha 34 Opotiki 12.

For further information contact:
Mike Rogers BOPRU Operations Manager
DDI 07 927 1316 029 478 4292

NOMINATION FOR BOPRU BALL BOY FOR STEAMERS PRE-SEASON AND ITM NPC GAMES 2010

Mon, 31 May 2010 10:08:00 +0100

Ball Boys will be selected for their maturity, commitment to the game & trainings, respect always shown towards coaches/referees/supporters and a fair & sportsmanlike attitude.
These boys/girls display 'a lead from the front' attitude to their playing environment, whilst not necessarily being the best player. They don't shirk the tough stuff, give it their all & yet present graciousness should things not go their way.
Their commitment to self development in their sporting endeavours is without question.
They are grateful young men/women for the opportunities that have come their way so far & will attempt go far in whatever path they choose in their sporting & life direction.
Should you wish to nominate a Player to be part of this very select group, we need a commitment from the families that they can get their son/daughter to ALL the games, including pre-season, barring sickness. Attendance would be expected at every game, ON TIME; freezing cold nights, rain and hail unfortunately! and of course shine.

NOMINATE ONLY UNDER THE FOLLOWING CRITERIA:

Nominations from NZRU Registered Players.
Nominations from U13 grade Aged Players, playing this grade.
Nominations from Players with the above traits – provide examples on nomination form
Nominations from Players who has a parent/guardian involved in Voluntary work in providing Rugby for the BOPRU Rugby Community – provide example on nomination form
Nominations from Players AND their family who can commit to the above conditions & dates below. Travel to games will be at own cost. Will receive x2 Blue Seats Adult tickets to games for Parents/Families.
Nominations from Players who are fit & capable.

Important Dates – MUST BE AVAILABLE!!!!!!

Interviews/Trials at CBOP, WBOP & EBOP Sunday 20th June
Final Trial/Interviews Sunday 27th June at Baypark Stadium
Chosen & Advised 30th June
Attend Pre-seasons 9th July Reporoa, 23rd July Whakatane
Attend Steamers Games 14th August, 2.35pm Baypark, 29th August, 4.35pm R.I.S, 9th September, Thursday 7.35pm Baypark, 19th September, 4.35pm Baypark, 24th September, Friday 7.35pm R.I.S, 16th October, 2.35pm Baypark, then semis & finals?!
You will need to ensure you will be available at least 2 hours before each game in case of Curtain raisers.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD FORM

GENERATION “Y” BLOWING THE WHISTLE

Mon, 31 May 2010 08:56:22 +0100

Media Release 28 May 2010

The Bay of Plenty Rugby Union has come up with a unique initiative to combat the problems of referee shortages. The Bay of Plenty Rugby Union is targeting youth to help solve the problem of a shortage of referees.

Rugby currently has a shortage of referees that are needed to meet the massive demand from the community who wish to play rugby. On any given weekend there are over 350 teams involved in rugby games throughout the Bay of Plenty.

Bay of Plenty Operations Manger, Mike Rogers says, “We have close to 9000 players involved in club and school rugby, and at present we are unable to cover lower grades of Secondary School Rugby as well as the Senior B club competition”. “We see this as a rugby community issue not a referee issue, and we need the continued support from clubs, schools and the community alike to ensure we can provide a good experience to all those who wish to play the game”.

Rogers continued, “Through our Referee Development Coordinator John Kendal, we have seen some really positive initiatives established that focus on both recruiting and retaining referees. One of these has been the promotion of our “Introduction to Refereeing” courses throughout all Secondary Schools”.

The BOPRU “Introduction to Refereeing” courses have been well received by Bay of Plenty Secondary Schools. The Bay of Plenty Rugby Union has entered a partnership with the NZ Sports Academy based in Rotorua to assist in delivering the programme. The outcome of working with the Academy will be that these students will referee Saturday morning rugby, allowing parents to focus on coaching.

BOPRU Referee Development Coordinator John Kendal says “I am extremely optimistic about referee recruitment within the Bay, with an increase in numbers of the younger people joining the Bay of Plenty Referee ranks in 2010.

Kendal says “the Introduction to Refereeing course provides students with a mixture of both practical and theory, giving them the confidence and ability to referee rugby at the junior Small Black level”.

The BOPRU has received outstanding support from Otumoetai College, who currently has four students in their first season with BOP Referees. These students have taken up refereeing as their sport. Many of the Bay of Plenty young referee’s can be seen running as Assistant Referee’s (Touch Judges) on Saturday afternoons. It is critical that they get the support and encouragement from all involved in our game.

The outcomes from the school based programme and other recruitment initiatives, are already being seen with 14 new referees recruited to date. A significant contributor to making the program available to all Bay schools, is the continued support of Trust Power as the BOPRU Referees sponsor.

For further information contact:
Mike Rogers BOPRU Operations Manager
DDI 07 927 1316 029 478 4292

DIVISION TWO TAKES CENTRE STAGE

Thu, 27 May 2010 17:01:16 +0100

Press Release 27 May 2010

The real action this Saturday (29 May 2010) is in the BOP Polytechnic Secondary Schools Division Two playoffs.

While all top four Div Two teams have won promotion to the top echelon for round two, this weekend they commence battle for the round one title honours

Reporoa College, who took the top spot in section one with an undefeated record, will travel to play the section two runners-up Tauranga Boys third fifteen, at Nicholson Field in Tauranga. Reporoa College were in rampant form picking up a bonus points for four tries (or better) in each of their games.

Rotorua School John Paul College, who annexed section two with an undefeated record, host Whakatane High School. The Eastern Bay schools only loss was against Reporoa College.

While the two Rotorua Boys High and Tauranga Boys College sides will sit on the sideline, because of traditional school fixtures, in Division One – the other games should be absorbing contests, with both encounters likely to go down to the wire.

Eastern Bay School Trident High could face a real challenge at home, when Te Puke High School pays a visit. There is also likely to be little between Western Heights and Opotiki, when they Eastern Bay side travels to Rotorua.

While Taupo Nui A Tia wrapped up the Div Three first round title last week, there are two weeks of preliminary play before the championship round commences.

Taupo Nui A Tai will travel to face Bethlehem College in the Western Bay, Tongariro will host Rangitahi, with Aquinas at home to Kawerau.

Bay of Plenty Polytechnic Secondary Schools Rugby First Fifteen Draws 29 May 2010 (Home team first)

Division One: Trident HS v Te Puke HS, Western Heights HS v Opotiki College.

Division Two Championship

Tauranga BC v Reporoa College, John Paul College v Whakatane HS.
Ranking games
Rotorua BHS v Otumoetai, Edgecumbe v Mount Maunganui, Rotorua Lakes v Tauhara.

Division Three:

Bethlehem v Taupo Nui A Tia, Tongariro v Rangitahi, Aquinas v Kawerau.
For further information contact:
Mike Rogers BOPRU Operations Manager
DDI 07 927 1316 029 478 4292

TWO CENTRAL VICTORIES IN ROTORUA

Thu, 27 May 2010 11:26:12 +0100

Press Release 27 May 2010

Central (Rotorua) laid down the gauntlet in the first game of the PGG Wrightson Sub-Union series, when they defeated Eastern Bay of Plenty under lights in Rotorua, on Wednesday (26 May 2010) evening

At stake in the 2010 series between the Eastern, Western and Central Sub-Unions is the Te Hurinui Apanui Shield, which has been the symbol of Bay of Plenty Sub-Union supremacy since 1927.

The opening half was a real battle, with the home side taking a reasonably narrow 8 nil lead into the break. Two further tries, and two additional two penalty goals from the boot of Sikeli Voranasu, resulted in Central taking out the encounter 19 nil.

The Central touchdowns were awarded to Curtis Van de Hayden and Siegfried Fisiihoi. Central must now sit on the sideline for a week, before meeting Western Bay of Plenty on the 9th June at Te Puke, in a game that could be the 2010 Te Hurunui Apanui decider

In the entrée to the main game, Central got past Eastern Bay in the Colts representative match-up. In what was a battle of attrition, the Central side appeared to have the game under control at the half time break with a 15-3 lead. The home sides tries were scored by Mike Martin, Leighton Simkins and Matt O”Connor.

However a fight back from the visitors in the second spell saw Tom Johnson cross for a try. The Rotorua representatives then dug in to defend their line, which resulted in Central taking out the game 15-8.

PGG Wrightson Sub-Union Series - Game One
Senior
Central 19 Curtis Van de Hayden, Siegfried Fisiihoi tries; Sikeli Voranasu 3 pens) Eastern BOP 0.
Colts
Central 15 (Mike Martin, Leighton Simpkins, Matt O’Connor tries) Eastern BOP 8 (Tom Johnson try; Luke Henrison pen)

PGG Wrightson 2010 BOPRU Sub-Union Series
2 June - Eastern BOP v Western BOP @ Taneatua Domain (Taneatua Rugby Club)
9 June - Western BOP v Central BOP @ Murray Salt Stadium (Te Puke Sports)

For further information contact:
Mike Rogers BOPRU Operations Manager
DDI 07 927 1316 029 478 4292

PGG WRIGHTSON TO SPONSOR SUB-UNION SERIES

Thu, 27 May 2010 11:25:04 +0100

Press Release 26 May 2010

PGG Wrightson (PGW) have upped their sponsorship of Bay of Plenty Rugby, recently signing to sponsor the BOPRU Sub-Union series, which kicks off in Rotorua this Wednesday (26 May 2010) night.

The Bay of Plenty Rugby Union introduced the tri-angular series between the Western, Eastern and Central Rugby Sub-Unions, in 2007. The series matches up the Senior and Colts representative teams in head to head competition, with the Te Hurinui Apanui and Shalfoon Shields on the line.

At each of the BOPRU Sub-Union series games, a PGG Wrightson player of the day will be presented with an award. There is sure to be keen competition for the PGG Wrightson Player of the Series, which will be the reward for individual excellence at the series conclusion.

PGW Regional Manager Richard Weightman said ‘we have a great working relationship with the Bay of Plenty Rugby Union, and are extremely proud to be involved in local grassroots rugby”. “This season PGG Wrightson sponsorship will include Steamers and the Sub-Union Series along with two other forms of the local game”.

Bay of Plenty Rugby Union CEO Jeremy Curragh said “ Bay of Plenty Rugby is delighted with the continuation of the relationship with PGG Wrightson. The Bay of Plenty having a large rural catchment with a strong interest in rugby which is a perfect fit with both parties”.

In another development PGW have joined with Balance Agri Nutrients to bring representative rugby to rural communities. On the 9th July 2010 the Steamers will play the first of their pre-season games against Manawatu at Reporoa - with the second Steamers warm-up game against Taranaki at Whakatane on the 23rd July.

Richard Weightman said, “ PGW is happy to support the Bay Union as they showcase the Steamers in the rural communities of the Bay of Plenty”. Jeremy Curragh continued “The Steamers games in Reporoa and Whakatane is part of the Bay Unions philosophy to take the Steamers to the regions, and to make the Bay flagship representatives as assessable as possible”.

The PGW player of the day awards are to be extended to the Bartercard Baywide Finals day, where each division will see a Player of the day recipient selected.

PGG Wrightson 2010 BOPRU Sub-Union Series

26 May - Eastern BOP v Central BOP @ Puarenga Park (Whakarewarewa Club)
2 June - Eastern BOP v Western BOP @ Taneatua Domain (Taneatua Rugby Club
9 June - Western BOP v Central BOP @ Murray Salt Stadium (Te Puke Sports

Bay of Plenty Steamers Warm-Up Matches

July 9 v Manawatu @ Reporoa
July 23 v Taranaki @ Whakatane

For further information contact:
Mike Rogers BOPRU Operations Manager
DDI 07 927 1316 029 478 4292

KATIKATI RUGBY & SPORTS CLUB WOULD BE HONURED IF YOU WOULD JOIN THEM AT THE 130 YEAR JUBILLE

Wed, 26 May 2010 11:13:04 +0100

SO'OLIALO AND SMITH TO LINK WITH UK BARBARIANS

Tue, 25 May 2010 11:29:23 +0100

MEDIA RELEASE - EMBARGOED TO 10.00PM NZT (11AM UKT) TONIGHT

24 May 2010

Hurricanes players Rodney So’oialo and David Smith have accepted invitations to join the UK Barbarians for their two matches against England and Ireland over the next fortnight.

So’oialo will play for the Barbarians against England at Twickenham on Sunday 30 May and Ireland at Thomond Park, Limerick, on Friday June 4 while Smith will assemble with the Barbarians as injury cover.

All Blacks Coach Graham Henry said So’oialo, who has played 62 Tests for the All Blacks, would play for the Baabaas with the support of the All Blacks selectors.

“We have the utmost respect for Rodney and his commitment to the black jersey and he goes with our blessing. However, it’s important to note that he is by no means out of our thinking when it comes to future selection,” he said.

So’oialo said the Barbarians matches would give him the chance to keep his form and match fitness up.

“I’m looking forward to playing the two games against some quality opposition. I know what I need to do to work on my game and will continue to push for All Blacks selection,” he said.

“I am very honoured to receive this invitation and appreciate the temporary release from the New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRU) to enable me to accept it. Playing for or against the Baabaas is part of the special tradition of the international game and all players and rugby nations value that special opportunity,” So’oialo added.

Media note: Graham Henry will be available for a brief media stand up at the Heritage Hotel, Hobson Street, Auckland, tomorrow Tuesday at 9AM. Please meet him in the foyer. Please also confirm your attendance at this stand-up with Joe Locke on the details below. Rodney So’oialo is on his way to London. For media inquiries please contact his manager Tim Castle on 021 419 323.

********

For further information please contact:

Joe Locke

All Blacks Media Manager

P: +64 4 494 0778

M: +64 (0) 27 441 8461

E: joe.locke@nzrugby.co.nz

WEDNESDAY RUGBY COMES TO TAURANGA

Mon, 24 May 2010 11:49:23 +0100

Tauranga Boys College takes on Wesley College ( from Counties - Manakau ) this Wednesday at Nicholson field at 2.30 pm.

Wesley College is the school Jonah Lomu hailed from, and featured in recent newspaper articles with their 360 kg front row ( bigger than the All Black front row )

The Tauranga Boys College forward pack at around 800 kgs, will be facing the huge packs of Wesley, Rotorua and Hamilton over the next couple of months ( all around 880 kgs ).

The Tauranga forwards led by Captain Ethan Carter, Nathan Harris and Wiremu Kuka up front, Locks Mitchell Zandstra and Fergus McCool and Loose forwards including Danny Underwood, Hamish Newlands and Jeff Thwaites will face their hardest opposition since their hard fought win over Auckland Grammar.

BOP age group backs Te Aihe Toma, Jacob Proctor and Frano Turner lead the backline, with Iziah Malcolm playing well in the midfield.

TBC 1st XV vrs Wesley College 1st XV

2.30 pm, Wednesday May 26th

@ Tauranga Boys College

TAURANGA SPORTS EMERGE VICTORIOUS

Mon, 24 May 2010 11:27:15 +0100

Bartercard Baywide Rugby Review 23 May 2010

TAURANGA SPORTS EMERGE VICTORIOUS

Tauranga Sports wrapped up the Bartercard Baywide Premier first round title on Saturday (22 May 2010) - when they ran in five tries on their way to defeating Te Puna 37-17 at the Tauranga Domain.

The defending Baywide champions who are chasing four successive titles, made sure of first round honours picking up a bonus point for four tries (or better), to finish one point ahead of Rotoiti.

While Te Puna never gave up the fight, the home side were in control for most of the encounter. The Tauranga touchdowns were awarded to Kent Rae, Josh Hall, Jason Karauria, Afai Esera and Brett Mathew, with Karauria kicking three conversions and two penalty goals.

The Te Puna tries were scored by John Pareanga who picked up a double, and Taimania Tata, with Daryll Houia slotting a conversion.

Rotoiti who finished just one point behind Tauranga Sports, were happy to return home with the win points after snatching a 19-18 victory from Opotiki, in the Eastern Bay. The Opotiki side make their home ground a fortress, with visitors having to battle for points when they pay a visit to the Opotiki Domain

The Baywide first round ledger has a familiar look, with Mount Maunganui and Te Puke finishing in third and fourth position. Mount Maunganui won a try fest with Rotorua heavyweight Whakarewarewa at Blake Park, in a match where twelve touchdowns were awarded.

While the home side held a relatively narrow 22-15 lead at the break, they cut loose in the second spell to take out the encounter 44-27. Tutere Waenga and Malakai Kisina grabbed doubles for the home side, with Doug Edwards picking up three tries for Whaka.

Te Puke Sports put on a tradesman like display at Rugby Park in Whakatane, to take home a 36-13 win over Whakatane Marist. Josh Harrison increased his season try scoring tally with a brace, with Luke Perrott and Nick McCashin also dotting down for Te Puke. Abe Tito and Baeden Wardlaw scored tries for the home side.

Rangataua thrilled the home crowd at Te Ariki Park, with a decisive 51-3 victory against Te Teko, running in six tries.

Waikite not only annexed the first round Division One title, but also finished with an undefeated record. On Saturday they won a high scoring encounter 37-27 against Marist St Michaels, who belied their lowly position on the points tally

A relieved Rangiuru returned home to Te Puke, with a narrow 20-16 victory on their ledger card against Paroa - with Kahukura overwhelming Arataki 107-14, Ngongotaha and Ruatoki battling to a 16 all draw, and Greerton Marist getting home from Reporoa 36-10 in Reporoa.

Baywide Colts leader Greerton Marist still have an unbeaten record, albeit by the skin of their teeth, after being held to a 23 all draw by Tauranga Sports. Te Puke Sports squared the ledger with defending Colts champions Ngongotaha, winning the championship final replay 58-8.

Bay of Plenty Bartercard Baywide Rugby Results 22 May 2010

Premier:

Rangataua 51 (Ruben Potaka 2, John Ririnui, Charlie Russell, Moriri Hika, Brad Flutey tries; J Ririnui 3 cons 5 pens) Te Teko 3 (Scott Sutherland pen).
Mount Maunganui 44 (Tutere Waenga 2, Malakai Kisina 2, Zion Nordstrom, Troye Elvin, Mata McGrath tries; Sam Juricich pen con, Dan Waenga con, McGrath con) Whakarewarewa 27 (Doug Edwards 3, Trent Sweeney, Aliki Kisina tries; Kelly Haimona con). HT: 22-15.
Tauranga Sports 37 (Kent Rae, Josh Hall, Jason Karauria, Afai Esera, Brett Mather tries, J Karauria 3 con 2 pens) Te Puna 17 (John Pareanga 2, Taimania Tata tries; Daryll Houia con)
Te Puke Sports 36 (Josh Harrison 2, Luke Perrott, Nick McCashin tries, penalty try; McCashin 4con pen) Whakatane Marist 13 (Abe Tito, Baeden Wardlaw tries; Craig Edwards pen).
Rotoiti 19 (Elijah Haira Wilson try; Whakataki Cunningham con 4pen) Opotiki 18 (Kevin Waterson, Taka Amai tries; Te Amo Wilbore 2pen con)
Premier Points Table (First Round Final)
Tauranga Sports 38, Rotoiti 37, Mount Maunganui 29, Te Puke Sports 28, Opotiki 23, Whakarewarewa 21, Rangataua 19, Te Puna 16, Whakatane Marist 12, Te Teko 7.

Division One:

Rangiuru 20 Paroa 16, Kahukura 107 Arataki 14, Ngongotaha 16 Ruatoki 16, Waikite 37 Marist St Michaels 27, Greerton Marist 36 Reporoa 10.
Division One Points Table (First Round Final)
Waikite 44, Rangiuru 38, Ngongotaha 30, Greerton Marist 28 Paroa 22, Kahukura 20, Ruatoki 19, Reporoa 11, Marist St Michaels 10, Arataki 1.

Colts:

Mount Maunganui 44 Whakarewarewa 8, Opotiki 11 Rotoiti 0, Tauranga Sports 23 Greerton Marist 23, Te Puke Sports 58 Ngongotaha 8, Marist St Michaels won by default, Rangataua won by default.

For further information contact:
Mike Rogers BOPRU Operations Manager
DDI 07 927 1316 029 478 4292

BAY OF PLENTY SUB-UNION SUPREMACY KICKS OFF ON WEDNESDAY EVENING

Mon, 24 May 2010 11:24:27 +0100

Media Release 21 May 2010

Western Bay of Plenty Representative teams will be chasing back to back titles, when the annual BOPRU Sub-Union series kicks off in Rotorua next Wednesday (26 May 2010) night.

With all the BOPRU representative coaches on hand at the Sub-Union matches, the series effectively become the first trial, for Bay of Plenty representative teams later in the year. The three games provide the opportunity for club players to showcase their skills in front of the Steamers management team.

Two long time Bay of Plenty Rugby trophies are on the line in the Senior and Colts encounters. The Stewart Family from Whakatane presented the Te Hurinui Apanui Shield for Sub-Union competition in 1927. The Shield commemorates the highly respected Chief Hurinui Apanui. Bay of Plenty Sub-Union Colts side’s battle for the Shalfoon Shield, which dates back to the 1940’s.

Last year Western Bay of Plenty became the first Sub-Union, to annex both the Te Hurinui Apanui and Shalfoon Shields in the same season. After repelling the challenge from Eastern Bay of Plenty 17-7, the Western Bay senior side met Central in the Te Hurinui Apanui decider.

With Western Bay holding a narrow 10-5 advantage at the break, the game was up for grabs in the second spell. A early second half penalty stretched the Western Bay lead to eight - before Matt Vant Leven was awarded a try, converted by Kelly Haimona, to put the Central right back in the fight

A Lance Macdonald try, which came from a number of players handling the ball, gave the visitors some breathing space. A final Western Bay penalty saw a relieved Western Bay side walk from the field with a 21-12 victory.

The Western Bay Colts defended the Shalfoon Shield defeating Central 38 nil, after running over Eastern Bay in Te Puke.

BOPRU Sub-Union Series

Te Hurinui Apanui Shield
2007 Western BOP 2008 Central 2009 Western BOP
Shalfoon Shield
2007 Central 2008 Western BOP 2009 Western BOP

2010 BOPRU Sub-Union Series

26 May - Eastern BOP v Central BOP @ Rotorua International Stadium
2 June - Eastern BOP v Western BOP @ Taneatua Domain (Taneatua Rugby Club
9 June- Western BOP v Central BOP @ Murray Salt Stadium (Te Puke Sports)

For further information contact:
Mike Rogers BOPRU Operations Manager
DDI 07 927 1316 029 478 4292

100 YEARS SINCE NEW ZEALAND MAORI TOOK THE FIELD

Mon, 24 May 2010 11:12:47 +0100

MEDIA RELEASE -21 May 2010

New Zealand Māori made a winning start to its rich and successful history when the first official New Zealand Māori side met and defeated a Rotorua sub-union team 100 years ago today.

That encounter, played in Rotorua and won 25-5 by New Zealand Māori, launched the team on a Century of rugby that would see them play 429 times for 297 wins and only 109 losses, with 23 drawn matches. Those results included 58 wins over international sides against 30 losses and five draws.

Try-scorers in that historic first match included H Harrison (Thames Valley), C Tipene (Otago), R Dansey (Otago) and Southland’s Billy Stead. The team was captained by Alex Takarangi.

Following the Rotorua match, the team toured New Zealand taking on Auckland and a South Auckland XV before heading to Australia for an 11-match tour and returning to further domestic fixtures. They finished that inaugural season having played 19, won 12, drawn three, and lost seven matches, scoring 315 points and conceding 160.

The development of an official national Maori team owes a great deal to the vision and commitment of Wiremu Teihioka (“Ned”) Parata. Recognising the presence of rugby league among Maori, Parata took his idea of a Maori team to the-then New Zealand Rugby Football Union which agreed and supported the concept. Another of Parata’s masterstrokes was to entice Billy Stead, the vice-captain of the 1905 “Originals” All Blacks side and pioneer of the first five-eighth position, out of retirement to make the tour. Parata subsequently managed Maori teams for the next 16 years.

The establishment of a New Zealand Māori side built on the legacy of the privately-organised New Zealand Natives team which toured in 1888-1889 and which featured predominantly Maori players.

New Zealand Māori Rugby Board Chairman Wayne Peters said the Centenary was a milestone of significant importance in sporting terms, recognised on the international stage by the presence during the centennial year of teams of international standing as well as being accepted as the opportunity to pay tribute to those who have supported Maori rugby at all levels

“Māori rugby holds a special place for Māori, and New Zealand rugby followers generally, as it represents a distinctive and unique aspect of rugby in New Zealand. So it is appropriate that we celebrate the past and, in particular, those players, coaches and management and supporters who have contributed to the game over 100 years,” he said.

Mr Peters said the Centenary would be celebrated during the Sealord New Zealand Māori Centenary Series next month. New Zealand Māori take on the New Zealand Barbarians in Whangarei, Ireland in Rotorua and England in Napier, while a series of luncheons being held in each venue would create an opportunity to honour the former players and those others who have contributed so much to the success of the team and Maori rugby.

About New Zealand Māori:

The first New Zealand Māori team was officially selected in 1910. The idea of a wholly Māori side was first mooted in the 1880s, resulting in the formation of the New Zealand Natives, whose famous 1888 tour was to have a tremendous impact on New Zealand rugby. Since their debut in 1910, the New Zealand Māori side has played almost every provincial side in New Zealand as well as numerous national sides and has toured extensively overseas. The team has a proud record, including victories in the professional era over England, Argentina, Scotland and Fiji, and an historic win over the 2005 British and Irish Lions.

**********

For further information on the New Zealand Māori Centenary programme, contact:

Brian Finn

NZRU Communications Manager

P: 04 494 0765

M: 027 229 5380

E: brian.finn@nzrugby.co.nz

For further information on the New Zealand Māori team, contact:

Kate Hutchison

NZRU Communications Administrator

P: 04 494 0764

M: 027 591 4673

E: kate.hutchison@nzrugby.co.nz

TAURANGA AND ROTORUA BOYS FIRST FIFTEEN LOOK TO CONTINUE THEIR UNBEATEN RUN

Thu, 20 May 2010 17:20:49 +0100

Press Release 20 May 2010

While the BOP Polytechnic Secondary Schools top echelon leader board looks to be a logjam at the top – the top contenders have games in hand.

Tauranga Boys College first fifteen who lead the point’s ladder, have posted an undefeated record with a game in hand. While they have their sights firmly on the Super Eight in the second half of the season, the Western Bay School want to annex the regional competition.

This Saturday (22 May 2010) they travel to Rotorua to meet Western Heights High School. The Rotorua Secondary School has an impressive record over the years, producing a number of All Blacks from their ranks. Coached by Bay rugby legend Ron Preston, the school is currently going through a rebuilding of their first fifteen for the future.

The Rotorua Boys High firsts have also been unbeaten this year, and are lurking just behind Tauranga Boys, with two games in hand. Trident High School are this weekends opponents at Rotorua Boys High, with the visitors expected to give plenty of cheek throughout the encounter.

The closest game of the round should be the match up in the Western Bay of Plenty where, Tauranga Boys seconds will meet their Rotorua Boys counterparts. Te Puke High School have the home advantage when Opotiki College pay a visit on Saturday.

Division Two front-runners Reporoa College who have posted a four from four win record, should continue on their winning way when they travel to play Mount Maunganui College. The winner of Otumoetai College and Whakatane High School match will cement second place in section one.

Tauranga Boys College and John Paul College will fight out the top spot in section two - with a local derby between Rotorua Boys and Rotorua Lakes taking place at the Rotorua Boys High.

Taupo Nui A Tia who are the runaway leader in Division Three, get another opportunity to increase their stranglehold on the first round title, when they play Aquinas College in the Western Bay of Plenty.

Bay of Plenty Polytechnic Secondary Schools Rugby First Fifteen Draws 22 May 2010 (Home team first)
Division One: Te Puke HS v Opotiki, Rotorua BHS 1st XV v Trident HS, Tauranga BC 2nd XV v Rotorua BHS 2nd XV, Western Heights HS v Tauranga BC 1st XV.

Points Table: Tauranga BC 1st XV 14*, Rotorua BHS 1st XV 10**, Rotorua BHS 2nd XV 10*, Tauranga BC 2nd XV 10, Opotiki College 9, Western Heights HS 6, Trident HS 5, Te Puke HS 4.
* one game in hand ** two games in hand

Division Two
Section One: Mount Maunganui v Reporoa, Otumoetai v Whakatane, Tauhara v Katikati.
Points Table: Reporoa 20, Otumoetai 15, Whakatane 13, Mount Maunganui 6, Katikati 4, Tauhara 1.
Section Two: Tauranga BC v John Paul College, Rotorua BHS v Rotorua Lakes.
Points Table: Tauranga BC 14, JPC 13, Rotorua BHS 7, Rotorua Lakes 5, Edgecumbe 4.

Division Three: Aquinas v Taupo Nui A Tia, Bethlehem v Rangitahi, Tongariro v Kawerau.
Points Table: Taupo Nui A Tia 20, Aquinas 14, Bethlehem 13, Kawerau 6, Tongariro 1, Rangitahi 1.

For further information contact:
Jeremy Curragh BOPRU CEO
DDI 07 927 1319 027 255 5521

FIRST ROUND TITLE ON THE LINE THIS SATURDAY

Thu, 20 May 2010 17:19:54 +0100

Bartercard Baywide Rugby Preview 20 May 2010

The two joint leaders of the Bartercard Baywide Premier competition, will be chasing the first round title, on the last day of round one this Saturday (22 May 2010).

Rotoiti’s narrow 13-9 victory over Tauranga Sports last weekend, was enough to take the Rotorua side to a share of the top spot on the competition leader board, with Tauranga Sports. With a nine point buffer to Mount Maunganui .the top two are the only contenders for the first round title

Defending Premier Baywide champions Tauranga Sports are at home to fellow Western Bay club Te Puna. While Tauranga Sports will have serious aspirations to annex first round honours, they also have the Jordan Cup on the line. The Western Bay Challenge trophy, which Tauranga took from Rangataua, is one the line each time the holder meets a fellow Western Bay team.

In order to grab first round honours, Rotoiti must overcome a trip away from home to the Eastern Bay, and a parochial Opotiki Sports home crowd at the Opotiki Domain. The Eastern Bay side have been in good form this season, and sit comfortably in mid table on the point’s ladder.

A classic rugby battle should take place at Blake Park when Whakarewarewa pay a visit. The Mount has made their championship aspirations clear, with a number of solid victories under new coach Marty Bourke. Whaka who made a slow start to the season have hit their straps in recent weeks, and last weekend delivered Opotiki a 42-10 defeat.

Rangataua should have a good tussle with Te Teko at Te Ariki Park, with Te Puke Sports favoured to beat Whakatane Marist in the Eastern Bay of Plenty.

Waikite have their unbeaten record on the line in Division Two, but are expected to be too good for Marist St Michaels at Marist Park. Second placed Rangiuru could face a real challenge from Paroa at home. Ngongotaha host Ruatoki, Greerton Marist travel to meet Reporoa, and Kahukura will be heavily favoured to defeat Arataki.

The feature match in the Baywide Colts grade will see a replay of last years championship final. Defending champion Ngongotaha will play Te Puke Sports, at Murray Salt Stadium in Te Puke. While last years title deciders was easily won by the Rotorua side, this weekends match should be a close encounter

Colt’s leader Greerton Marist faces another challenge to the unbeaten record, when they meet Tauranga Sports at the Tauranga Domain. In other match-ups Rangataua host Te Teko, Mount Maunganui and Whaka meet at Blake Park, Opotiki and Rotoiti face off in the Eastern Bay, with Marist St Michaels playing Whakatane Marist.

BOPRU Bartercard Baywide Draws 22 May 2010

Premier (2.45pm) Rangataua v Te Teko, Te Ariki Park; Tauranga Sports v Te Puna, Tauranga Domain; Mount Maunganui v Whakarewarewa, Blake Park; Opotiki v Rotoiti, Opotiki Reserve; Whakatane Marist v Te Puke Sports, Rugby Park.

Tauranga Sports 33, Rotoiti 33, Mount Maunganui 24, Te Puke Sports 23, Opotiki 22, Whakarewarewa 20, Te Puna 16, Rangataua 14, Whakatane Marist 12, Te Teko 7.

Division One (2.45pm) Kahukura v Arataki, Kuirau Park; Ngongotaha v Ruatoki, Ngongotaha Domain; Marist St Michaels v Waikite, Marist Park; Paroa v Rangiuru, Lawson Park; Reporoa v Greerton Marist, Reporoa.

Colts (1pm) Rangataua v Te Teko, Te Ariki Park; Mount Maunganui v Whakarewarewa, Blake Park; Opotiki v Rotoiti, Opotiki Reserve; Tauranga Sports v Greerton Marist, Tauranga Domain; Marist St Michaels v Whakatane Marist, Marist Park; Te Puke Sports v Ngongotaha, Murray Salt Stadium.

For further information contact:
Jeremy Curragh BOPRU CEO
DDI 07 927 1319 027 255 5521

BETHLEHEM WIN LOCAL DERBY AGAINST AQUINAS

Tue, 18 May 2010 09:45:47 +0100

Press Release - 16 May 2010

Two big bands of supporters were on hand to witness the annual game between Bethlehem and Aquinas College on Saturday (15 May 2010). The Western Bay Christian school local derby, took place in the BOP Polytechnic Division Three first fifteen competition.

Strong defence from both sides opened the first quarter of the match, before Bethlehem’s Mathew Randrup scored the first try of the match. The conversion from Matty Cole and two penalty goals saw Bethlehem lead 13-3 at the half way break

In the second half Bethlehem ran in a further three tries to Jared McNaughton, Tim Richards, and William Peters, to see Bethlehem College take out the inaugural Randrup Family trophy 41-10. The Aquinas points came from a try to Shane Black and a penalty and a conversion slotted by Matt Wilson.

Division Three front-runner Taupo Nui A Tai continued their unbeaten run with a solid 32-10 win against Eastern Bay’s Kawerau College.

In the top echelon Rotorua Boys High first fifteen swept away Opotiki College 54 nil. The Rotorua second team also posted a victory, but not before surviving a spirited comeback from Trident High School. A 19 nil lead to Rotorua Boys at the break, saw the home side fight their way back into the match in the second half.

The Trident pack dominated in the second spell, resulting in Calvin Buttimore and Cameron Watkins scoring tries. At 19-14 the home side were right back in the encounter, before a dropped Trident pass resulted in the visitors touching down. Another Rotorua try late in the match saw the visitors take out the match 31-14.

Tauranga Boys 2nd XV won a close encounter with Western Heights High School, to post there second victory of the season, grabbing the match 16-12.

In Division Two Reporoa College continued their unbeaten run when they repelled the challenge from Whakatane 31-17. Katikati just sneaked past Mount Maunganui 9-7, with Otumoetai, John Paul College and Rotorua Lakes also posting victories

Bay of Plenty Polytechnic Secondary Schools Rugby First Fifteen Results 15 May 2010

Division One: Rotorua BHS 1st XV 54 Opotiki College 0, Rotorua BHS 2nd XV 31 Trident HS 14, Tauranga BC 2nd XV 16 Western Heights HS 12, Tauranga BX 1st XV won by default
Division Two: Reporoa 31 Whakatane 17, Katikati 9 Mount Maunganui 7, Otumoetai 24 Tauhara 0, JPC 12 Rotorua BHS 5, Rotorua Lakes 3 Edgecumbe 0.
Division Three: Bethlehem 41 Aquinas 10, Taupo Nui A Tia 32 Kawerau 10.

For further information contact:
Jeremy Curragh BOPRU CEO
DDI 07 927 1319 027 255 5521

ROTOITI JOIN TAURANGA SPORTS ON THE TOP OF THE POINTS LADDER

Mon, 17 May 2010 09:58:01 +0100

Bartercard Baywide Rugby Review 16 May 2010

Rotoiti joined Tauranga Sports at the top of the Bartercard Baywide Premier points table, after they defeated the Tauranga visitors at Emery Park on Saturday (15 May 2010).

In what turned out to be a battle of attrition played in winter conditions for the first time this season, the home side sneaked home after leading 10-6 at the break. The only try of the rugged encounter came in the first half, when Siegfried Fisiihoi crossed for Rotoiti.

Three penalty goals from Tauranga Sports kicker Nick Evemy kept his side in the match – however Rotoiti got home 13-9, with the additional points coming from a conversion and a penalty to Whakataki Cunningham, and a dropped goal awarded to Sikeli Voranasu.

The Rotoiti victory provided Tauranga Sports, who are the defending Premier champions with their first defeat of the season. The two teams now share top billing on the points table, having established a nine point from third placed Mount Maunganui.

Whakatane Marist took to the wet conditions at Maramatanga Park like ducks to water, running in four tries on their way to defeating Te Puna 38-8. The visitors grabbed their first touchdown after ten minutes, and were never headed in what was mainly one-way traffic.

Whakarewarewa continued their renaissance when they ran over Opotiki at Puarenga Park, running in six tries to win 42-10. Doubles to Himiona Marr and Doug Edwards led the way for the home side, with Whaka kicker Trent Vatselias slotting all six conversions attempts.

A bonus point reward for Mount Maunganui was the icing on the cake for the visitors, when they defeated Te Teko 27-10 in the Eastern Bay of Plenty. Cory Aporo, Zion Nordstrom, Sam Mayes and Ted Tauroa crossed for the Mount touchdowns, with Dan Godbold grabbing a try for Te Teko.

Te Puke Sports repelled the challenge from fellow Western Bay side Rangataua 16-10. With a try apiece, the difference was a conversion and three penalty goals kicked by Te Puke’s Nick McCashin.

Waikite and Rangiuru continue to lead the Division One points ladder. Competition front-runner Waikite had a real arm wrestle with Ngongotaha before emerging with an 8-5 win, while Rangiuru got home against Reporoa 17-3 in Te Puke.

Other Div One teams to post wins were Greerton Marist who won the Marist derby with Rotorua side St Michaels 35-13, Ruatoki who got home by a solitary point from Kahukura 11-10, and Paroa who had little trouble with Arataki winning 32-10.

Baywide Colt’s leader Greerton Marist continued on their winning way, after a good tussle with Te Puna, winning 27-13. Tauranga Sports were made to battle for their victory over Marist St Michaels before emerging with a 19-14 win - with Opotiki, Ngongotaha, Mount Maunganui and Te Puke posting wins in the age group grade.

Bartercard Baywide Results 15 May 2010

Premier

Rotoiti 13 (Siegfried Fisiihoi try; Whakataki Cunningham pen con, Sikeli Voranasu dg) Tauranga Sports 9 (Nick Evemy 3pen).

Te Puke Sports 16 (Josh Harrison try; Nick McCashin 3pen con) Rangataua 10 (John Ririnui try, pen con).

Mount Maunganui 27 (Cory Aporo, Zion Nordstrom, Sam Mayes, Ted Tauroa tries; Sam Juricich con) Te Teko 10 (Dan Godbold try; Scott Sutherland con pen).

Whakatane Marist 38 (QJ Ohia, Steve Mapu, Baeden Wardlaw, Scott Sarginson tries; Craig Edwards 4pen 3con) Te Puna 8 (Darrell Houia try pen).

Whakarewarewa 42 (Himiona Marr 2, Doug Edwards 2, Hayden Baird, Pauli Asaeli tries; Trent Vatselias 6con) Opotiki 10 (Wayne Hurunui try; Te Hata Wilbore pen con). HT:

Premier Points Table

Tauranga Sports 33, Rotoiti 33, Mount Maunganui 24, Te Puke Sports 23, Opotiki 22, Whakarewarewa 20, Te Puna 16, Rangataua 14, Whakatane Marist 12, Te Teko 7.

Division One:

Ruatoki 11 Kahukura 10, Greerton Marist 35 Marist St Michaels 13, Rangiuru 17 Reporoa 3, Waikite 8 Ngongotaha 5.

Colts:

Greerton Marist 27 Te Puna 13, Tauranga Sports 19 Marist St Michaels 14, Ngongotaha 85 Whakatane Marist 0, Mount Maunganui 35 Te Teko 6, Opotiki 27 Whakarewarewa 0,Te Puke Sports on by default.

For further information contact:
Jeremy Curragh BOPRU CEO
DDI 07 927 1319 027 255 5521

NEW ZEALAND RUGBY UNION - STATEMENT OF APOLOGY

Mon, 17 May 2010 08:57:37 +0100

MEDIA RELEASE - 14 May 2010

The following is a statement of apology which has today been issued by Acting NZRU Chairman Mike Eagle and NZRU CEO Steve Tew:

“2010 is a year in which the New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRU) and New Zealand Maori Rugby Board (NZMRB) wish to honour all players of Maori descent and especially those who have worn the New Zealand Maori jersey over its proud 100 years history.

“The Centenary activity has also prompted rugby to revisit and wrestle with the hurt caused by our sporting contact with South Africa during the years that black and other South Africans were subject to the oppression of apartheid.

“The issues generated by apartheid and the sporting connections which existed at that time affected our two countries deeply and had an enormous impact over several decades, to the extent that those effects are still being felt today.

“Among those affected were Maori players in New Zealand teams invited to South Africa and today we extend a genuine apology to all of those players, coaches and administrators affected, as well as their families and other communities who were impacted directly or indirectly by our organisation’s decisions in response to South Africa’s apartheid policies at those times.

“The NZRU first set out to consider this issue in 2009 as we prepared for the Centenary of New Zealand Maori in 2010 and believed it was right to ask for advice from the New Zealand Maori Rugby Board.

“The NZMRB’s advice was that an apology might have the effect of unfairly condemning past Maori administrators and that it was more appropriate to focus on the present and the celebration of the New Zealand Maori Centenary year.

“However, we acknowledge the steps taken by the South African Rugby Union and by the South African Minister for Sport and Recreation in response to these issues.

“We recognise the very difficult situation that our predecessors were faced with, including those members of the NZMRB, the NZRU Council and administration and, indeed selectors, coaches and players, during that time.

“We also acknowledge that throughout the apartheid era some of the decisions were taken with good intentions, which included protecting Maori players from insult and vilification. We acknowledge the complexities of the issues that they faced and today’s apology is not intended to be a criticism of those involved at that time.

“Today, on behalf of the New Zealand Rugby Union, we wish to say sorry first and foremost to those Maori players who were not considered for selection for teams to tour South Africa or to play South Africa.

“We apologise to the families of those players and to the wider Maori community who were affected directly or indirectly by the decisions taken to not include Maori players for those teams and tours. It was a period in which the respect of New Zealand Maori rugby was not upheld and that is deeply regretted.

“We also wish to take the opportunity to apologise to New Zealand as a whole for the division that rugby’s contact with South Africa caused across the country over many years.

“It is our desire that rugby remains a game that unifies and inspires New Zealanders. Similarly, we share the aspiration of the New Zealand Maori Rugby Board that Maori rugby remains strong and continues to contribute positively to Maori communities and to the development of our game.

“We hope today’s expression will contribute to this and will allow everyone within rugby, and particularly those supporters of Maori rugby, to celebrate the best traditions of Maori rugby during this year’s Centenary activities.”

*******

For further information contact:

Brian Finn

NZRU Communications Manager

M: 027 229 5380

E: brian.finn@nzrugby.co.nz

Juli Clausen

NZRU Media Manager

M: 027 570 7045

E: juli.clausen@nzrugby.co.nz

TOP TWO PREMIER TEAMS TO MEET AT EMERY PARK

Thu, 13 May 2010 11:48:42 +0100

Bartercard Baywide Rugby Preview 13 May 2010

The much anticipated clash, between the two top teams in the Bartercard Baywide Premier rugby competition, will take place at Emery Park on Saturday (15 May 2010) when Tauranga Sports arrive to play Rotoiti.

Defending Baywide champions Tauranga Sports have been in impressive form, amassing 258 points, on their way to posting an unbeaten record. The Tauranga Domain side has taken aim on an unprecedented four successive Baywide Premier titles.

Rotoiti have been the quite achiever of this years top echelon title race, sneaking home by just a few points in a number of their games. The lakesiders have just one loss on their season ledger card, being beaten by Mount Maunganui 32-26 in round two.

Both sides have a player apiece, who can score tries when given the sniff of an opportunity. Tauranga Sports winger Matt Hodson is a prolific touchdown specialist, who leads the Premier try tally with seven touch downs - with Seigfried Fisiihoi dotting down five times for Rotoiti.

Opotiki, who sits comfortably in third place, have the opportunity to prove that they are genuine championship contenders against Whakarewarewa in Rotorua. While Whaka has had an up and down season, they are still likely to give the Eastern Bay side one of their biggest tests of the season.

Mount Maunganui, are showing the form that took them to Baywide championship honours five years ago, will be favoured to beat Te Teko at home. Last weekend the Mount had a titanic battle with Te Puke Sports before suffering a one point loss. While Te Teko sits at the bottom of the point’s ladder, they can never be discounted at home at Dunderdale Park.

Te Puke Sports and Rangataua will engage in a Western Bay of Plenty local derby in Te Puke - with the game at Maramatanga Park between Te Puna and Whakatane Marist likely to go down to the wire.

Division One competition leaders Waikite face a real challenge when they meet fellow Rotorua side Ngongotaha. Both sides are former Baywide Premier heavyweights, with eyes on a top echelon berth next season.

Rangiuru should be too strong for Reporoa, Ruatoki could have a good fight against Kahukura at home in the Eastern Bay, while Paroa should return home with a victory over Arataki.

Baywide Colt’s front-runner Greerton Marist, will expect a strong challenge from fellow Western Bay side Te Puna, at Greerton Park. Other sides expected to post victories include Te Puke over Rangataua, Mount Maunganui against Te Teko, with Ngongotaha expected to run away from Whakatane Marist.

BOPRU Bartercard Baywide Draws 15 May 2010

Premier (2.45pm) Rotoiti v Tauranga Sports, Emery Park; Whakarewarewa v Opotiki, Puarenga Park; Te Puke Sports v Rangataua, Murray Salt Stadium; Te Teko v Mount Maunganui, Dunderdale Park; Te Puna v Whakatane Marist, Maramatanga Park.

Premier Points Table
Tauranga Sports 32, Rotoiti 29, Opotiki 22, Mount Maunganui 19, Te Puke Sports 19, Te Puna 16, Whakarewarewa 15, Rangataua 13, Whakatane Marist 7, Te Teko 7.

Division One (2.45pm) Ruatoki v Kahukura, Tuhoe Park; Waikite v Ngongotaha, Bellvue Road; Greerton Marist v Marist St Michaels, Greerton Park; Rangiuru v Reporoa, Jamieson Oval; Arataki v Paroa, Grenada Park.

Colts (1pm) Greerton Marist v Te Puna, Greerton Park; Whakarewarewa v Opotiki, Puarenga Park; Tauranga Sports v Marist St Michaels, Tauranga Domain; Te Puke Sports v Rangataua, Murray Salt Stadium; Whakatane Marist v Ngongotaha, Rugby Park; Te Teko v Mount Maunganui, Dunderdale Park.

For further information contact:
Jeremy Curragh BOPRU CEO
DDI 07 927 1319 027 255 5521

TAURANGA BOYS LOOK TO CONSOLIDATE THEIR LEAD AGAINST TE PUKE HIGH

Thu, 13 May 2010 08:59:48 +0100

Press Release 12 May 2010

After three rounds of the Bay of Plenty Polytechnic Secondary Schools Division One competition, Tauranga Boys College sit at the top of the points table with a game in hand.

The two bonus points that the Western Bay side have collected include a remarkable six tries awarded to Jacob Proctor, This Saturday (15 May 2010) the Tauranga Boys first fifteen are at home to Te Puke High School.

The Te Puke team posted their first win of the season last weekend, when they defeated Western Heights High School 20-18 in a real arm wrestle. Te Puke coach Mark Hollinshead said it was much improved performance from his side that produced his teams first success of the season.

Rotorua Boys first fifteen, who have played just a solitary game due to traditional school commitments, travel to the Eastern Bay to meet Opotiki College. The Eastern Bay side currently sit in second position on the points ladder - with wins over Rotorua Boy seconds, and one point victory against Tauranga Boys second fifteen last weekend.

Playing at home Trident High School should have a good tussle with the Rotorua Boys 2nd XV - with the encounter in Tauranga between Tauranga Boys second fifteen, and Western Heights likely to go down to the wire.

The eagerly awaited clash between the two unbeaten teams in the Division Two competition, will take place in Whakatane, when Whakatane High School square off against Reporoa College. While Reporoa sit at the top of the table courtesy of two additional bonus points, the winner of the encounter will take the outright lead in section one.

In section two there will be plenty of interest in the local derby between John Paul College and Rotorua Boys, with traditional Rotorua school rivalry at stake.

A division three match in the Western Bay of Plenty is expected to attract a large crowd, when Aquinas College and Bethlehem College meet. Just a solitary loss by Bethlehem College stains the record sheet of the two Tauranga Christian schools. At stake for the first times is the Randrup Family Cup.

Div Three competition front runners Taupo Nui A Tia, who have banked a bonus point in each of their three victories, should continue on their winning way against Kawerau College in the Eastern Bay of Plenty

Bay of Plenty Polytechnic Secondary Schools Rugby First Fifteen Draws 15 May 2010 (Home team first)

Division One:

Tauranga BC 1st XV v Te Puke HS, Opotiki College v Rotorua BHS 1st XV, Trident HS v Rotorua BHS 2nd XV, Tauranga BC 2nd XV v Western Heights HS.

Division Two:

Section One
Whakatane v Reporoa, Katikati v Mount Maunganui, Otumoetai v Tauhara.
Section Two
JPC v Rotorua BHS, Rotorua Lakes v Edgecumbe., Tauranga BC the bye.

Division Three:

Kawerau v Taupo Nui A Tia, Bethlehem v Aquinas, Rangitahi v Tongariro

For further information contact:
Jeremy Curragh BOPRU CEO
DDI 07 927 1319 027 255 5521

TAURANGA BOYS 1ST XV DEFEAT TRIDENT HIGH SCHOOL

Tue, 11 May 2010 10:44:29 +0100

Press Release 10 May 2010

While the two Rotorua Boys High teams played traditional school fixtures, three games in the Bay of Plenty Polytechnic Secondary Schools first fifteen competition took place on Saturday (8 May 2010).

Tauranga Boys College first fifteen made a foray into the Eastern Bay of Plenty to meet Trident High School. The Western Bay side kept their unbeaten competition record intact with a 65-7 victory, over the Eastern Bay School. While Trident put up a brave performance, the Tauranga Boys attacking moves paid big dividends.

For the second week in a row Jacob Proctor bagged three touchdowns, with Te Aihe Toma and Frano Turner dotting down twice. Other Tauranga tries were awarded to Brad Nichol, Moe Pari, Geoff Berry and skipper Ethan Carter. Tauranga Boys team management singled out the performance of Jeff Thwaites who was there player of the day.

Te Puke High School posted their first win of the season, when they defeated Western Heights in Te Puke. In a match that went down to the wire Te Puke got home to beat the Rotorua side 20-18. Former Te Puke number eight Tim Cooper had an outstanding game on the left wing, and bagged one of his teams tries – with stand-in captain Josh Hollinshead also having a good match.

Opotiki College rebounded from defeat the previous week, to post a win over Tauranga Boys seconds, albeit by a paper-thin margin. Tauranga led 6-5 at the break courtesy of two penalty goals to Carlos Savage. A third penalty from Savage wasn’t quite enough as Opotiki ran in a second try to take out encounter 10-9.

An uncompromising display of aggression underpinned by outstanding discipline, was the foundation of the Otumoetai College 12 nil victory against Mount Maunganui, in the Division Two headliner. Leon Ngatai and Kayleb Barke crossed for tries with Jamie Newman kicking a conversion. The Otumoetai College defence was also a significant catalyst for the win with senior players Leon Ngatai and Taylor Jones leading the team to victory.

Bay of Plenty Polytechnic Secondary Schools Rugby Results WE 8 May 2010
First Fifteen Division One: Tauranga BC 1st XV 65 Trident HS 7; Te Puke HS 20 Western Heights HS 18, Opotiki College 10 Tauranga BC 9.
Division Two: Reporoa 53 Katikati 5, Otumoetai 12 Mount Maunganui 0,

For further information contact:
Jeremy Curragh BOPRU CEO
DDI 07 927 1319 027 255 5521

ROTOITI SNEAK PAST WHAKAREWAREWA

Tue, 11 May 2010 10:42:55 +0100

Bartercard Baywide Rugby Review 9 May 2010

In a weekend of local derbies in the Bartercard Baywide competitions, a considerable number of games went down to the wire on Saturday (8 May 2010) afternoon

In spite of Rotoiti scoring five tries, to Whakarewarewa’s two touchdowns in the Rotorua Premier showdown – Whaka kicker Trent Vatselias kept the home team in the game throughout the encounter.

Whaka hit the front at the half way stage leading 16-11. While Rotoiti added a further four tries in the second spell, the Whaka sharp shooter continued to punish Rotoiti errors, slotting seven penalty goals in the match. In a match that went down to the wire Rotoiti finally got home grabbing a narrow 37-34 victory.

The Rotoiti tries were awarded to Seigfried Fisiihoi, Peter White, Whakataki Cunningham, Zach Hohneck and Manasa Bole, with the Whaka touchdowns picked up by Steven Schenk and Paula Asaeli.

The match-up at Blake Park between Western Bay rivals Mount Maunganui and Te Puke Sports, was another to go down to the wire. A three nil lead to the Mount at half time, reflected a first half where the two sides cancelled out their opponents attacks.

A try to Zar Lawrence took the home side to the front, before a Te Puke touchdown to Hugo Bernard put Te Puke in front. With five minutes left on the clock Troye Elvin crossed for Mount Maunganui. With time up Nick McCashin calmly slotted a penalty goal to see his team take home a 16-15 victory.

The annual battle between Rangataua and Te Puna at Te Ariki Park, was taken out by the home side by a solitary point. Te Puna rose to the challenge and led by two points at the half time break. Te Puna went further ahead after the break, before Rangataua came back to sneak home 22-21.

Tauranga Sports comfortably retained their unbeaten record when they ran past Whakatane Marist 55-22 in the Eastern Bay, with Opotiki running in five tries on their way to beating Te Teko 33-13.

While the final score sheet in the Division One headliner between Rangiuru and Greerton Marist, showed that Rangiuru won the encounter 42-28 they had to battle hard for victory.

Down by three points at the break, the home side then put their game together to clinch victory. Rangiuru team management singled out the performances of seventeen year old Ngatai Kingi and Sasu Waihape.

Div One competition front-runners Waikite won the Rotorua local derby with Kahukura 50-23, Paroa got past Ruatoki 35-28, with Ngongotaha powering away from Marist St Michaels to win 38-8.

Colts competition leaders Greerton Marist continued their unbeaten run, with an entertaining 43-23 victory against Rotoiti at Emery Park. Te Puke Sports took the Western BOP Colts challenge trophy from Mount Maunganui sneaking home 28-26 in a thriller – with Te Puna, Ngongotaha, Tauranga Sports and Opotiki also notching wins in the age group grade.

Bartercard Baywide Rugby Results 8 May 2010

Te Puke Sports 16 (Rameka Poihipi, Hugo Bernard tries; Nick McCashin 2pen) Mount Maunganui 15 (Zar Lawrence, Troye Elvin tries; Sam Jurisich pen con).

Opotiki 33 (Dean Elmiger 2, Te Hata Wilbore, Te Amo Wilbore, Sam Howe tries; Howe 3con, Te Amo Wilbore con) Te Teko 13 (Luke O'Brien try; Scott Sutherland 2pen con).

Rotoiti 37 (Seigfried Fisiihoi, Peter White, Whakataki Cunningham, Zach Hohneck, Manasa Bole tries; Cunningham 2pen con, Sikeli Voranasu 2con) Whakarewarewa 34 (Steven Schenk, Paula Asaeli tries; Trent Vatselias 7pen con). HT: 11-16.

Rangataua 22 (John Ririnui, Matua Parkinson tries; Ririnui 3pen, Ash Mason pen) Te Puna 21 (Hori Leef, Aidan Kuka, Tajhon Mailata tries; Darrell Houia 2pen). HT: 9-11.

Tauranga Sports 50 (Toby Arnold 2, Jason Karauria 2, Steven Honey, Gareth Brown, Kent Rae, Pinji Talaapitaga tries; Nick Evemy 5 cons) Whakatane Marist 22 (Scott Sargenson 2, Craig Edwards tries; Edwards 2 cons pen)

Premier Points Table
Tauranga Sports 32, Rotoiti 29, Opotiki 22, Mount Maunganui 19, Te Puke Sports 19, Te Puna 16, Whakarewarewa 15, Rangataua 13, Whakatane Marist 7, Te Teko 7.

Division one: Rangiuru 42 Greerton Marist 28, Waikite 50 Kahukura 23, Paroa 35 Ruatoki 28, Ngongotaha 38 Marist St Michaels 8, Reporoa won by default.

Colts: Te Puna 29 Rangataua 7, Ngongotaha 31 Marist St Michaels 7, Tauranga Sports 85 Whakatane Marist 0, Opotiki 47 Te Teko 5, Te Puke Sports 28 Mount Maunganui 26, Greerton Marist 43 Rotoiti 24.

For further information contact:
Jeremy Curragh BOPRU CEO
DDI 07 927 1319 027 255 5521

WHAKA AND ROTOITI TO MEET AT PUARENGA PARK

Tue, 11 May 2010 10:40:07 +0100

Bartercard Baywide Rugby Preview 7 May 2010

There is no bigger match-up in the Bartercard Baywide rugby competitions each year, than the local Rotorua derby between Rotoiti and Whakarewarewa. This Saturday (8 May 2010) the two Baywide heavyweights will square off at Puarenga Park.

Rotoiti have been the quite achiever this season, and with just a solitary loss to Mount Maunganui on their ledger sheet, sit in second place on the points ladder. They have shown real determination getting home by just a point or two in several games.

Whakarewarewa have had a relatively slow start to the season, and sit in the unfamiliar position of seventh position. Two successive wins over Te Puke Sports and Te Teko, has given the side a launching pad towards the semi-finals in late July.

The Rotoiti visitors to Whaka headquarters, will be well aware that the home team never surrenders in front of their loyal home supporters - with the match likely to be a uncompromising battle that goes down to the wire.

Another highly anticipated local derby will take place at Blake Park, with Mount Maunganui hosting Te Puke Sports. In the modern era genuine championship contenders need a quality kicker, with the two sides well served with kicking sharp shooters.

Leading the Baywide individual points tally is Te Puke’s Nick McCashin who tops the table with 63 points after six games. The Mount have two players capable of converting kicks at goal into points, with Sam Jurisich and new club recruit Dan Waenga, making their mark this season.

Defending Baywide champions Tauranga Sports will be expected to return from the Eastern Bay with their unbeaten record intact, when they meet Whakatane Marist. Rangataua and Te Puna could have a battle of attrition at Te Ariki Park, with Opotiki favoured to take out the Eastern Bay derby against Te Teko.

Former Baywide Premier champions Waikite, have been in sublime form in Division One this season – not only posting an unbeaten record, but also adding six bonus points to their tally. This weekend they travel the short distance to Kuirau Park to meet Kahukura.

Rangiuru who sit in second place could face a solid challenge from Greerton Marist. Paroa meet Ruatoki in the Eastern Bay, with Ngongotaha at home to Marist St Michaels.

At the start of the Baywide Colts competition, few would have picked Greerton Marist to lead the competition. The Western Bay age group team put their unbeaten record on the line against Rotoiti at Emery Park. The Western Bay Colts challenge trophy will be on the line when Mount Maunganui host Te Puke Sports at Blake Park.

BOPRU Bartercard Baywide Draws 8 May 2010

Premier (2.45pm) Whakarewarewa v Rotoiti, Puarenga Park; Whakatane Marist v Tauranga Sports, Rugby Park; Rangataua v Te Puna, Te Ariki Park; Opotiki v Te Teko, Opotiki Reserve; Mount Maunganui v Te Puke Sports, Blake Park.
Premier Points Table
Tauranga Sports 27, Rotoiti 24, Mount Maunganui 18, Opotiki 17, Te Puna 15, Te Puke Sports 15, Whakarewarewa 14, Rangataua 9, Whakatane Marist 7, Te Teko 7.

Division One (2.45pm) Reporoa v Arataki, Reporoa; Rangiuru v Greerton Marist, Jamieson Oval; Kahukura v Waikite, Kuirau Park; Paroa v Ruatoki, Lawson Park; Ngongotaha v Marist St Michaels, Ngongotaha Domain.
Division One Points Table
Waikite 30, Rangiuru 25, Ngongotaha 22, Greerton Marist 17, Kahukura 14, Ruatoki 13, Paroa 11 Marist St Michaels 9, Reporoa 7, Arataki.

Colts (1pm) Rangataua v Te Puna, Te Ariki Park; Ngongotaha v Marist St Michaels, Ngongotaha Domain; Whakatane Marist v Tauranga Sports, Rugby Park; Opotiki v Te Teko, Opotiki Reserve; Mount Maunganui v Te Puke Sports, Blake Park; Rotoiti v Greerton Marist, Emery Park.
Colts Points Table
Greerton Marist 24, Mount Maunganui 22, Te Puke 22, Ngongotaha 16, Te Puna 15, Tauranga Sports 15, Marist St Michaels 14, Rotoiti 11, Opotiki 9 Whakarewarewa 8, Rangataua 6, Te Teko 6, Whakatane Marist 1.

For further information contact:
Jeremy Curragh BOPRU CEO
DDI 07 927 1319 027 255 5521

TICKET SALES OPEN FOR ALL BLACKS HOME TESTS AND NEW ZEALAND MAORI MATCHES

Thu, 06 May 2010 14:23:45 +0100

MEDIA RELEASE -3 May 2010

Tickets to the All Blacks domestic Tests and the New Zealand Maori fixtures are on sale this month, with rugby fans all around the country being offered a taste of international action in 2010.

New Zealand rugby fans will be treated to an exceptional internationals season with Ireland, Wales, England, Australia and South Africa all set to face the black jersey on New Zealand soil during the Steinlager Series (June), the Investec Tri Nations Series (July/August) and the special Sealord New Zealand Maori Centenary Series (June).

New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRU) Chief Executive Steve Tew said the addition of a New Zealand Maori rugby programme as part of Centenary celebrations in 2010 adds extra edge to the international rugby calendar in New Zealand.

“It’s very exciting when you consider that we have five countries coming here this year. There will be some great rugby during these tournaments, and it will be a great chance for local rugby fans to see some of the world’s best teams and players in action in their backyard,” Mr Tew said.

The All Blacks’ 2010 season opener against Ireland in New Plymouth on 12 June is Taranaki’s first opportunity to show off a new-look Yarrow Stadium which has been extensively renovated for Rugby World Cup 2011. With the redevelopment of the northern and southern terraces, the stadium now boasts an extra 6200 seats and total capacity of 25,400.

“Our very special and significant celebration of Maori rugby also gets under way on 12 June with the New Zealand Maori - New Zealand Barbarians match in Whangarei.

“From there Rotorua will host a historical first ever New Zealand Maori match against Ireland on 19 June followed by England’s only fixture in New Zealand this year, against New Zealand Maori in Napier on 23 June,” he said.

“In Hamilton, we’re hoping All Blacks fans give Welsh Coach Warren Gatland a night to remember, as he makes his first trip home to Hamilton as Coach of Wales, for their second Test clash on 26 June.

“Dunedin will host Wales for the first time ever on 19 June in what is being billed as the last Test match at Carisbrook and that will be a fitting way to farewell the old ground. Meanwhile Christchurch will get to celebrate the newly-refurbished AMI Stadium when it hosts the last All Blacks Test at home this year - a mouth-watering Investec Tri Nations and Bledisloe Cup clash on 7 August,” Mr Tew said.

The season also features two clashes against current Investec Tri Nations champions South Africa in Auckland on 10 July and in Wellington on 17 July.

Tickets to the New Plymouth Test have been on sale about a month, and while all covered seating has sold out, around 7500 general admission tickets are still available. Other venues report good pre-sales within the rugby community.

Tickets for the remaining Steinlager Series matches and the Sealord New Zealand Maori Centenary Series will be on sale this month. Tickets for all Investec Tri Nations Tests will be on sale in June.

Steinlager Series

All Blacks Test	Date	Venue	On Sale	Ticket Outlet
v Ireland	12 June	New Plymouth	Now	Ticket Direct
v Wales	19 June	Dunedin	10 May	Ticket Direct
v Wales	26 June	Hamilton	10 May	Ticketek

Investec Tri Nations

All Blacks Test	Date	Venue	On Sale	Ticket Outlet
v South Africa	10 July	Auckland	31 May	Ticketmaster
v South Africa	17 July	Wellington	8 June	Ticketmaster
v Australia	7 August	Christchurch	21 June	Ticket Direct

Sealord New Zealand Maori Centenary Series

NZM Match	Date	Venue	On Sale	Ticket Outlet
v NZ Barbarians	12 June	Whangarei	19 May	Ticket Direct
v Ireland	18 June	Rotorua	3 May	Ticket Direct
v England	23 June	Napier	24 May	Ticket Direct

For further information contact:

Juli Clausen

NZRU Media Manager

M: 0275 70 70 45

E: juli.clausen@nzrugby.co.nz

Kate Hutchison

NZRU Communications

M: 027 591 4673

E: kate.hutchison@nzrugby.co.nz

TAURANGA BOYS FIRST’S TO PLAY IN THE EASTERN BAY

Thu, 06 May 2010 13:58:44 +0100

Press Release 5 May 2010

Trident High School who have made a solid start to the Bay of Plenty Polytechnic Secondary Schools rugby competitions, will face a big test this Saturday (8 May 2010) when they host Tauranga Boys College first fifteen.

The Eastern Bay side, just went down to Western Heights High School who has been one of the heavyweights in Bay Secondary Schools rugby over the years, in round one. Last week Trident came from behind at the break to defeat Tauranga Boys seconds 15-11 in a battle of attrition.

However Trident will have to be at the top of their game, when Tauranga Boys come to visit. The Western Bay side made a definitive statement last weekend, when they ran in six tries to post a 37 nil win over Opotiki College.

A feature of the Tauranga firsts win was three touch downs awarded to Jacob Proctor. Trident will need to make sure they eliminate errors within kicking distance, as the Western Bay side have a very useful goal kicker in first five Te Aihe Toma.

The closest encounter of the Division One round three, is likely to be the match up in Opotiki, between the local school and the Tauranga Boys 2nd XV. Both sides bring a similar one win - one loss record to the match. Te Puke High School who has a considerable number of new faces in their first fifteen line-up, will host Western Heights in Te Puke.

In Division Two a large crowd is sure to be on hand at Mount Maunganui College, when the Mount meets long time rivals Otumoetai College. Both sides have made solid starts to their Div Two campaigns. Last weekend Otumoetai posted 22 unanswered points against Katikati, with Mount Maunganui defeating Tauhara College in round one.

In Division Three, Taupo Nui A Tia will have their unbeaten record on the line, when Bethlehem College pay a visit to Taupo. The other secondary school with a unbeaten season record is Aquinas College, who will host Kawerau College.

Bay of Plenty Polytechnic Secondary Schools Rugby First Fifteen Draws 8 May 2010 (Home team first)

Division One: Trident HS v Tauranga BC 1st XV, Te Puke HS v Western Heights HS, Opotiki v Tauranga BC 2nd XV.
Division Two: Reporoa v Katikati. Whakatane HS v Tauhara, Mount Maunganui v Otumoetai, Edgecumbe v Rotorua BHS, Rotorua Lakes v Tauranga BC.
Division Three: Taupo Nui A Tia v Bethlehem, Rangitahi v Tongariro, Aquinas v Kawerau.

For further information contact:
Mike Rogers BOPRU Operations Manager
DDI 07 927 1316 029 478 4292

TAURANGA BOYS MAKE WINNING START

Thu, 06 May 2010 13:56:20 +0100

Press Release 3 May 2010

Tauranga Boys College, made a winning start to their Bay of Plenty Polytechnic Secondary Schools first fifteen competition campaign on Saturday (1 May 2010) defeating Opotiki College at Nicholson Field.

Jacob Proctor led the Tauranga try scoring with three touchdowns, as his side posted a 36 nil victory - after posting 17 unanswered points in the first half.. Other Tauranga tries were awarded to Frano Turner, Paranihi Lovett and Mark Reilly. The Tauranga player of the day was first five Te Aihe Toma who also kicked three conversions.

Rotorua Boys High first fifteen also had a successful first up entry into the Division One competition defeating Te Puke High School 74-5.

A journey to the Western Bay for Trident High School resulted in a hard fought victory, against the Tauranga Boys second fifteen. The home side led Trident 8-7 at the break, courtesy of a try to Carlin Tata and a penalty goal slotted by Reece Wylie.

However Trident came back with a second half try and a successful penalty goal to take out the match 15-11. Tauranga Boys prop Carlin Tata was adjudged his team’s player of the day.

Rotorua Boys second fifteen cut loose in the second spell, after a close first half against Western Heights High School, to take out their encounter 36-5. Shaq Stone scored three tries for the winners. This was just the second time in charge in the first fifteen competition, for Western Heights coach Ron Preston - who played for the school before going on to play 153 games for Bay of Plenty.

A real battle took place in Division Two between Mount Maunganui College and Whakatane High. The first half was keenly fought out between two evenly matched forward packs. The Mount kicked their way to territorial advantage however they couldn’t convert into points, until Sam Bessant slotted a penalty, to give his team a 3 nil lead at the break

The Whakatane backline made a number of forays deep into the Mount territory, and were finally rewarded with a try to winger W Kereopa. A second Whakatane touchdown resulted in the visitors leading by seven - until Mount winger JK Kopa tied up the score with a converted try. In the dying seconds of the encounter a last gasp Whakatane try saw them take out the match 15-10.

NEW ZEALAND MAORI V IRELAND TICKETS GO ON SALE ON

Mon, 03 May 2010 11:37:17 +0100

A significant event, in the celebration of one hundred years of New Zealand Maori Rugby, is to take place at the Rotorua International Stadium on Friday 18 June 2010.

Tickets to the New Zealand Maori encounter with Ireland, which has been accorded Test match status will go on sale on Monday 3 May 2010.

Jeremy Curragh, CEO of Bay of Plenty Rugby Union, said they were delighted to be hosting such an important game. “This will be the biggest game hosted by Bay of Plenty
since the Lions in 2004”. “We hope the Bay of Plenty public get right behind this game as it will be a fantastic occasion”.

In order to cater for the large crowd expected to be on hand to witness the historic match, the gates will be open at 5.30pm. There will be extensive pre-game entertainment on show to keep fans entertained until the 7.35pm kick off.

It is appropriate that the first game between New Zealand Maori and Ireland should be held in Rotorua. The Bay of Plenty region has long been regarded as the home of Maori rugby in the country
The Bay of Plenty has a long history and association with Maori rugby, that dates back over one hundred years. In 1888 Joe Warbrick from Matata captained the New Zealand Native rugby team that toured England.

In the last one hundred years a myriad of Bay of Plenty players have earned selection in New Zealand Maori teams. The list includes a number who went on to play in the All Black jersey.

WN (Bill) Gray locked horns with the Springboks in one of the greatest series played between the two adversaries, in the winter of 1956.

One of the best known players during the 1980’s was Hika Reid, who was an All Black hooker from 1980 to 1986. Steve McDowall was another who played in the front row of an All Black pack. Last season Tanerau Latimer became the latest homegrown player to earn an All Black jersey. From bare foot junior rugby in Te Puke - Tanerau went on to debut for the All Blacks in 2009.

The tickets, which are expected to go like hot cakes, can be purchased from the Rotorua Convention Centre, Baycourt and the Bay of Plenty Rugby Union. They will also be available online at Ticket Direct

Sealord New Zealand Maori Centenary Series	Date	Venue	On Sale	Ticket Agent
v NZ Barbarians	12 June	Whangarei	May TBA	Ticket Direct
v Ireland	18 June	Rotorua	3 May	Ticket Direct
v England 23	23 June	Napier	24 May	Ticket Direct

For further information contact:
Mike Rogers BOPRU Operations Manager
DDI 07 927 1316 029 478 4292

SURGICAL SETBACK FOR ALI WILLIAMS

Mon, 03 May 2010 10:56:09 +0100

MEDIA RELEASE -1 May 2010

All Blacks and Blues lock Ali Williams’ return to rugby will be delayed with news that he will require a third operation on his troublesome Achilles tendon.

Williams had been in rehabilitation from surgery after rupturing his right Achilles in a pre–season match for the Blues in January.

However, All Blacks Doctor Deb Robinson said he had been suffering unexpected pain in recent weeks and a follow–up scan in Auckland on Thursday had revealed further damage to his tendon.

“The scan showed that, while the surgical procedure to connect the tendon to his joint remains intact, it has caused a partial tear further up his tendon,” Dr Robinson said.

As a result, Williams will require a third operation which will involve a reconstruction of the tendon.

Williams had been aiming to return to rugby in the ITM Cup but Dr Robinson said he would now be out of action until the end of the year.

“It’s obviously a frustrating and distressing time for Ali but throughout his setbacks over the last year he has remained optimistic about his situation and is keen to overcome his injuries and get back on the rugby field.”

All Blacks Coach Graham Henry said: “Everyone involved in the All Blacks feels for Ali and we will continue to give him our full support as he goes through further surgery and rehabilitation.”

********

For more information please contact:

Joe Locke

All Blacks Media Manager

P: 04 494 0778

M: 027 441 8461

E: joe.locke@nzrugby.co.nz

A LOG JAM IN THE MIDDLE OF THE BARTERCARD PREMIER POINTS TABLE

Mon, 03 May 2010 10:51:25 +0100

Bartercard Baywide Rugby Review 2 May 2010

While the race for the Bartercard Baywide Premier title still has three months to run, results on Saturday (1 May 2010) suggest that there will be a real dogfight to reach the semi-finals. Just four points separate the third to seventh placed sides, after six rounds of this seasons top echelon.

Defending champions Tauranga Sports had a real fight to retain their unbeaten season record, when they met near neighbours Rangataua at the Tauranga Domain. While Tauranga scored three tries to Steve Honey, Matt Hodson, Afai Esera to a double by Rangataua’s Ashley Mason, they just sneaked home 19-17.

The visitors could only rue the four missed attempts at goal, including two that hit the posts. The Tauranga Sports victory resulted in the Jordan Cup (Western BOP challenge trophy) changing hands for the first time this season.

The quite achiever of the Baywide top division has been Rotoiti, who cemented second place with a solid 39-17 win over Whakatane Marist, at Emery Park. While the Eastern Bay side never gave up the fight grabbing three touchdowns, Rotoiti were in charge throughout most of the game after leading 17-5 at the half way break.

Wahakarewarewa continued their return to form with good battle with Te Teko before prevailing 31-23. Mount Maunganui grabbed a narrow win getting past Te Puna at Maramatanga Park 17-13, while Te Puke Sports also had a close contest getting home against Opotiki 23-20.

Division One front runner Waikite were made to fight for their victory over Paroa, posting a 26-14 win at Bellvue Road. Second placed Rangiuru were in rampant form demolishing Arataki 74-5.

Greerton Marist could only rue lost opportunities, after leading Ngongotaha 24-15 at the half way stage of their game at Greerton Park. Ngongotaha scored 22 unanswered points in the second spell to take out the encounter 37-25.

Ruatoki bounced back from defeat last weekend to get past Reporoa 20-7, with Marist St Michaels upsetting near neighbors Kahukura 20-17.

Greerton Marist confirmed their credentials as genuine Colts championship contenders, when the met defending champions Ngongotaha, at Greerton Park. A decisive 29-10 victory, provided evidence that the Western Bay side is the team to beat in the Bay age group competition.

The curtain raiser at Emery Park turned into a battle of attrition with Rotoiti just getting past Whakarewarewa 19-15. Other Colts sides to post victories were Te Puna, Tauranga Sports, Te Puke Sports and Mount Maunganui.

Bartercard Baywide Rugby Results 1 May 2010

Premier

Rotoiti 39 (Whakataki Cunninghan, Daryl Albert, Elijah Wilson-Haira, Zac
Hohneck, Siegfried Fisihoi, Samiu Tavake tries; Cunningham 3 con) Whakatane
Marist 19 (Piniaha McNeil, Baeden Wardlow, Simon Kolo'ofai tries; Greg Smith
con). HT: 17-5.

Whakarewarewa 31 (Paula Asaeli 2, Doug Edwards, Trent Vatselias, Himiona
Marr tries; Vatselias 2 con, Barney Te Kani con) Te Teko 23 (Bless Ngahue,
Luke O'Brien, Te Ariki Henry tries; JJ Rereti 2pen, con). HT: 19-11.

Tauranga Sports 19 (Steve Honey, Matt Hodson, Afai Esera tries; Nic Evemy 2
con) Rangataua 17 (Ashley Mason 2 tries; John Ririnui 2con pen).

Te Puke Sports 23 (David Whitecliffe-Davies, Simon Chisholm tries; Nic
McCashin 3pens 2cons) Opotiki 20 (Freeman Edwardson, Kevin Waterson, Matt Henwood tries; Sam Howe pen con)

Mount Maunganui 17 (Cory Aporo, Andy Devoy, Malakai Kasini tries; Peter Maisey con) Te Puna 13 (John Pareanga, John Brown tries; Daryl Houia pen). HT: 10-8.

Premier Points Table

Tauranga Sports 27, Rotoiti 24, Mount Maunganui 18, Opotiki 17, Te Puna 15, Te Puke Sports 15, Whakarewarewa 14, Rangataua 9, Whakatane Marist 7, Te Teko 7.

Division One:

Waikite 26 Paroa 14, Marist St Michaels 20 Kahukura 17, Ruatoki 20 Reporoa 7, Rangiuru 74 Arataki 5, Ngongotaha 37 Greerton Marist 24.

Colts:

Rotoiti 19 Whakarewarewa 15, Te Puna 88 Whakatane Marist 0, Tauranga Sports 29 Rangataua 11, Te Puke Sports 18 Opotiki 13, Mount Maunganui 11 Marist St Michaels 7, Greerton Marist 29 Ngongotaha 10.

For further information contact:
Mike Rogers BOPRU Operations Manager
DDI 07 927 1316 029 478 4292

TANERAU LATIMER RE-SIGNS WITH NZRU

Thu, 29 Apr 2010 16:32:53 +0100

MEDIA RELEASE - 29 April 2010

All Blacks and Chiefs flanker Tanerau Latimer has recommitted to New Zealand rugby until the end of 2012, the New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRU) announced today.

Latimer, 23, has extended his contracts with the NZRU and Bay of Plenty and has committed to play for the Chiefs in the expanded Super Rugby competition in 2011 and 2012.

NZRU Chief Executive Steve Tew welcomed Latimer’s decision to continue playing his rugby in New Zealand.

“This is great news for New Zealand rugby because he is an outstanding young professional both on and off the field. Tanerau is still a young player who has achieved a lot already, from selection to the New Zealand Sevens squad at the age of 17, to becoming an All Black last year. He also makes a valuable contribution to both the Chiefs and Bay of Plenty.”

Chiefs franchise CEO Gary Dawson said Latimer is a valued senior member of the squad who is fast approaching 50 Super Rugby matches.

“Tanerau is an experienced campaigner for the Chiefs, who brings a combination of great skills and leadership to our squad. We are thrilled at his commitment to the Chiefs for the coming years,” he said.

Bay of Plenty Rugby Union CEO Jeremy Curragh said they are also celebrating Latimer’s continued commitment to their province.
“We’re very proud of the fact Tanerau is a home-grown player who has become an All Black and we are thrilled that his commitment to Bay of Plenty means we will benefit from his strength and leadership,” he said.

********
For further information contact:
Juli Clausen
NZRU Media Manager
M: 0275 70 70 45
E: juli.clausen@nzrugby.co.nz

TWO BAYWIDE MID-TABLE CLASHES TAKE CENTRE STAGE

Thu, 29 Apr 2010 16:28:36 +0100

Bartercard Baywide Rugby Preview 29 April 2010

Two mid table clashes in the Bartercard Baywide Premier title race, could change the complexion of the points table, after round six is completed on Saturday (1 May 2010).

Eastern Bay side Opotiki Sports who sit in third position on the point’s ledger, will travel to play Te Puke Sports at the Murray Salt Stadium. Opotiki have suffered just a solitary loss to Tauranga Sports this season.

Last weekend, Te Puna experienced the reality of meeting Opotiki in front of their passionate supporters, when they were suffered a 34-12 defeat. Sam Howe who has been Opotiki's top points scorer over the last couple of years, was in superb form touching down two tries and adding two conversions and a penalty goal.

Perennial Baywide Premier semi-finalists Te Puke Sports sit just two places behind Opotiki. The Western Bay side have the ability to dig deep when the chips are down - which could produce a close contest between the two genuine championship contenders.

Te Puna and Mount Maunganui, who share fourth equal position will go head to head at Maramatanga Park. The Te Puna unit are another Baywide side that attracts a solid band of vocal supporters, to their home games.

With recent Mount star Marty Bourke now in charge of coaching duties - Mount Maunganui have suffered just one loss this season, albeit with two draws on their ledger sheet. One player to make his presence felt in the last couple of Mount games, is Steamers outside back Cory Aporo, who is dangerous when allowed space out wide.

Tauranga Sports who sit atop the points ladder with an unbeaten record, should prove too strong for Rangataua at the Tauranga Domain. Whakatane Marist are likely to have a tough time against Rotoiti at Emery Park, while Te Teko and Whakarewarewa could battle to the finish in the Eastern Bay of Plenty.

The game of the Division One competition could take place at Greerton Park, when the home side host Ngongotaha. The Rotorua visitors are starting to show the form that saw them Baywide heavyweights a decade ago – with Greerton Marist always hard to beat at home.

Competition leaders Waikite will want to re-ink their credentials when Paroa come to call at Bellvue Road, while Rangiuru should be too strong for Arataki in a Western Bay derby.

The surprise package of this seasons Colts competition has been Greerton Marist, who have posted an unbeaten record. They could receive a reality check this weekend when defending Colts titleholders Ngongotaha come to town.

BOPRU Bartercard Baywide Draws 1 May 2010

Premier (2.45pm)

Rotoiti v Whakatane Marist, Emery Park; Te Teko v Whakarewarewa, Dunderdale Park; Tauranga Sports v Rangataua, Tauranga Domain; Te Puke Sports v Opotiki, Murray Salt Stadium; Te Puna v Mount Maunganui, Maramatanga Park.

Premier Points Table

Tauranga Sports 23, Rotoiti 19, Opotiki 16, Mount Maunganui 14, Te Puna 14, Te Puke Sports 11, Whakarewarewa 9, Rangataua 8, Whakatane Marist 7, Te Teko 7.

Division One (2.45pm)

Waikite v Paroa, Bellvue Road, Marist St Michaels v Kahukura, Marist Park; Ruatoki v Reporoa, Tuhoe Park; Arataki v Rangiuru, Grenada Park; Greerton Marist v Ngongotaha, Greerton Park.

Colts (1pm)

Rotoiti v Whakarewarewa, Emery Park; Te Puna v Whakatane Marist, Maramatanga Park; Tauranga Sports v Rangataua, Tauranga Domain; Te Puke Sports v Opotiki, Murray Salt Stadium; Marist St Michaels v Mount Maunganui, Marist Park; Greerton Marist v Ngongotaha, Greerton Park.

For further information contact:
Mike Rogers BOPRU Operations Manager
DDI 07 927 1316 029 478 4292

CLOSE ENCOUNTERS IN THE SECONDARY SCHOOL COMPETIONS

Wed, 28 Apr 2010 11:01:03 +0100

Press Release 26 April 2010

The first round of the Bay of Plenty Polytechnic Secondary Schools rugby competitions was played in balmy autumn weather conditions, which produced two extremely close contests.

In the Eastern Bay of Plenty, Trident High School came back from a thirteen point deficit, against Western Heights to just go down in a real thriller. The Rotorua visitors kicked an early penalty in the first fifteen Division One encounter, and then followed up with a converted try following the application of intense pressure.

A second Western Heights penalty saw them lead 13 nil at the break. The home side upped their work rate in the second spell, taking control of the ball for extended periods of play. Calvin Buttirmore crossed for the first Trident try following a break by Graeme Whiri Tai.

On a rare visit into the Trident half in the second spell, Western Heights extended their lead with a beautifully executed drooped goal. In the final minutes Elijah Nicholas crossed for a touchdown, which was converted by Cameron Watkins. At the final whistle a relieved Western Heights team walked from the field with a narrow 16-12 victory.

In the other Division One matches played in round one, Opotiki College defeated Rotorua Boys seconds 33-26 - with Tauranga Boys College seconds getting home 19-3 against a game Te Puke High first fifteen, after holding a narrow 5-3 lead at the break.

A real Division Two thriller took place at Reporoa College when Otumoetai College came to call. The home side made the early running, with Ben Mason, Liam Griffin and number eight Marty Axtens scoring tries in the first twenty minutes.

A comeback from the visitors including a touchdown to flying winger Jay Michalik and a second Otumoetai try, saw the match evenly poised at the break with Reporoa holding a narrow 22-19 advantage.

Otumoetai scored a try early in the second spell to grab the lead, before Reporoa’s Cyhan Tukahi capped of a strong game with the match-winning try. The final score line of 26-22 to Reporoa College, told the tale of an extremely close contest in a game that was up for grabs throughout. James McGruer and Tamati Jory scored the two other Otumoetai tries.

Bay of Plenty Polytechnic Secondary Schools Rugby Results WE 24 April

First Fifteen Division One:

Western Heights 16 Trident HS 12, Tauranga BC 2nd XV – 19 Te Puke HS 3, Opotiki College 33 Rotorua BHS 2nd XV – 26.

Division Two:

Reporoa College 26 Otumoetai College 22, Mount Maunganui College 7 Tauhara College 5, Whakatane HS 31 Katikati 12, JPC 46 Rotorua Lakes 3, Tauranga BC 3rd XV – 31 Edgecumbe College 24.

Division Three:

Taupo Nui A Tai 72 Rangatahi 0, Bethlehem 13 Tongariro 7, Aquinas 22 Kawerau 10.

For further information contact:
Mike Rogers BOPRU Operations Manager
DDI 07 927 1316 029 478 4292

GRAHAM COONEY AND CHRISTOPHER DOIG APPOINTED TO NZRU BOARD

Thu, 22 Apr 2010 17:16:48 +0100

MEDIA RELEASE - 22 April 2010

Current Rugby Southland Chairman Graham Cooney and Christopher Doig QSM have been appointed to the New Zealand Rugby Union Board, as announced at the NZRU’s Annual General Meeting in Wellington today.

Mr Cooney was nominated by Rugby Southland for the vacant Southern Zone position and was recommended by the NZRU Appointments and Remuneration Committee. As the other candidate chose not to stand, Mr Cooney was deemed to be appointed.

Mr Cooney has been Chairman of Rugby Southland since 2008 and a director since 1998 and previously served as a director and deputy chairman of the Highlanders. He is also a founding director and Chairman of Blue Sky Meats Ltd and Chairman of the Southern Institute of Technology.

Mr Cooney replaces retiring NZRU Board Member and Tasman Rugby Union Life Member Mark Peters.

NZRU Chairman Jock Hobbs paid tribute to Mr Peters for his outstanding service to the Board and to rugby in general noting, in particular, his oversight of the NZRU Business and Finance Committee as Chairman of that committee from April 2008. Mr Peters joined the Board in 2002 from the then-Marlborough RFU. He remains a Life Member of both the Tasman Rugby Union and the Marlborough sub-union.

Meanwhile, Mr Doig has been appointed as the new Independent Board Member and replaces Bill Thurston. Mr Thurston joined the Board in April 2007.

Mr Doig is a past CEO of New Zealand Cricket and is now a professional director and consultant specialising in the sports, arts and entertainment sector. He is a current director of VBase AMI Stadium, Solvan Limited, the Halberg Trust, The Winter Games, Rowing New Zealand and the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra Foundation. He is also a past director of SPARC and former Chairman of the New Zealand Arts Council.

Mr Doig was recommended by the NZRU Appointments and Remuneration Committee. The Committee is made up of Auckland RFU Chairman Ken Baguley, NZRU Chairman Jock Hobbs, New Zealand Cricket Chairman Alan Isaac, Tasman Rugby Union Chairman Nick Patterson, Poverty Bay RFU Chairman Malcolm MacLean and RNZ 2011 Ltd director and former SPARC Chairman John Wells.

Mr Hobbs paid tribute to Mr Thurston for his his service and contribution as an Independent Board Member.

“Bill joined the Board in 2007 and has brought his insight and experience to bear on a number of the major issues and projects under consideration during that time. He has been a respected and conscientious Board Member and has made a valuable contribution during his term,” said Mr Hobbs.

The AGM also saw the re-election of former All Blacks captain and elder rugby statesman Sir Wilson Whineray as NZRU Patron for the next three years. Sir Wilson has been Patron of the NZRU since 2003.

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For further information contact:

Brian Finn

NZRU Communications Manager

T: 04 494 0765

M: 027 229 5380

E: brian.finn@nzrugby.co.nz

Juli Clausen

NZRU Media Manager

P: 04 474 7276

M: 027 570 7045

E: juli.clausen@nzrugby.co.nz

WHAKAREWAREWA TO START CHARGE AT BAYWIDE TITLE

Thu, 22 Apr 2010 17:14:43 +0100

Bartercard Baywide Rugby Preview 22 April 2010

Write the Whakarewarewa team, out of contention for the Bartercard Baywide Premier title race at you peril, is the message from the myriad of Whaka club members and supporters.

While the Rotorua club, who have a proud history in the top echelon of Baywide rugby, sits second last on the point’s ledger – the battle has just started for Whakarewarewa. When the weather is at its worst in the middle of winter, the troops from Puarenga Park, will be warming to their environment.

This Saturday (24 April 2010) they face the challenge one day before Anzac Day, from Te Puke Sports, who also sit in an uncustomary position outside the top four. There is one certainty in the game to be played out at Whaka headquarters - that both teams will give there all in what should be a battle royal.

One of the combatants at Blake Park will lose their season unbeaten record, when Mount Maunganui takes on defending Baywide champions Tauranga Sports. The annual battle of the bridge matches up two of the real heavyweights of Baywide rugby in the last decade.

Tauranga Sports have a real match winner in flying winger Matt Hodson, who was at his elusive best against Opotiki last weekend. The Tauranga Domain based side has also added a more than useful kicker to their ranks this season, with former Tauranga Boys player Nic Evemy in good form.

Former Hawkes Bay representative Dan Waenga and Steamers outside back Cory Aporo, both touched down for tries for the Mount last weekend. With a nucleus of a number of long time team stalwarts, Mount Maunganui is likely to give Tauranga Sports their first real test of the season.

Te Puna who have started the season with a bang and sit in third equal spot on the points tally - will need to be at their best, if they wish to return home form the Eastern Bay with the scalp of Opotiki Sports. While the side has few individual stars, the Blue and Black brigade lay down their pride and passion for there team mates each week.

The big improvers in the Baywide top echelon in the last two seasons are the team who represent Opotiki. The side possesses two potential match winners. Last years Steamers hooker Dean Elmiger can blast holes in the opposition defence at will, and sharp shooting kicker Sam Howe is able to heavily punish teams for their mistakes.

The quite achiever of the Premier competition has been Rotoiti, who sit comfortably in second position. This weekend they visit Te Teko at Dunderland Park, and are likely to make life difficult for the Eastern Bay side. Rangataua will be chasing their first win of the season when they venture to the Eastern Bay to meet Whakatane Marist.

Waikite who top the ladder in Division one with an unbeaten record, should prove too strong for Reporoa in Reporoa. Second place Rangiuru will want to put last week’s defeat inflicted by Waikite behind them when they host Ruatoki.

In other Div One encounters Arataki are at home to fellow Western Bay side Greerton Marist, Paroa and Marist St Michaels meet at Lawson Park, with Kahukura and Ngongtaha engaging in a local Rotorua derby.

Surprise Colts competition leaders Greerton Marist, should prove too good for fellow Marist side St Michaels. The curtain raiser at Blake Park between Mount Maunganui and Tauranga sees the Oliver Cup, which is the Western Bay challenge trophy, on the line.

Opotiki and Te Puna should have a close encounter in the Eastern Bay, with the curtain raiser at Puarenga Park between Whaka and Te Puke Sports likely to go down to the wire.

BOPRU Bartercard Baywide Draws 24 April 2010

Premier (2.45pm)
Whakarewarewa v Te Puke Sports, Puarenga Park; Te Teko v Rotoiti, Dunderdale Park; Opotiki v Te Puna, Opotiki Reserve; Mount Maunganui v Tauranga Sports, Blake Park; Rangataua v Whakatane Marist, Te Ariki Park.

Premier Points Table
Tauranga Sports 18, Rotoiti 15, Mount Maunganui 14, Te Puna 14, Opotiki 11, Te Puke Sports 10, Whakatane Marist 7 Te Teko 7, Whakarewarewa 5, Rangataua 4.

Division One (2.45pm)
Arataki v Greerton Marist, Grenada Park; Rangiuru v Ruatoki, Jamieson Oval; Paroa v Marist St Michaels, Lawson Park; Kahukura v Ngongotaha, Kuirau Park; Reporoa v Waikite, Reporoa.

Colts (1pm)
Opotiki v Te Puna, Opotiki Reserve; Mount Maunganui v Tauranga Sports, Blake Park; Rangataua v Whakatane Marist, Te Ariki Park; Te Teko v Rotoiti, Dunderdale Park; Whakarewarewa v Te Puke Sports, Puarenga Park; Ngongotaha v Katikati, Ngongotaha Domain; Marist St Michaels v Greerton Marist, Marist Park.

For further information contact:
Mike Rogers BOPRU Operations Manager
DDI 07 927 1316 029 478 4292

SECONDARY SCHOOLS RUGBY TO GRAB THE LIMELIGHT

Wed, 21 Apr 2010 16:13:13 +0100

Press Release - 21 April 2010

Bay of Plenty secondary school rugby, run under the jurisdiction of the BOPRU, will take two big steps forward in the presentation of the game this season.

A major sponsor has come on board for the first time, with the Bay of Plenty Polytechnic and the Bay of Plenty Rugby Union, entering a partnership to raise the bar with the profile and presentation of secondary school rugby in the Bay of Plenty.

“The Bay of Plenty region is acknowledged by many as the hotbed of young rugby talent” says Dr Alan Hampton, Bay of Plenty Polytechnic Chief Executive. “History unfortunately tells us that many of these young players are lost to the region as they spread further afield to take up new challenges”.

“The Polytechnic is pleased to be able to support emerging rugby talent through our partnership with the Bay of Plenty Rugby Union. Anything we can do to keep local talent in the Bay is a huge step forward, and we look forward to bringing these young players tertiary opportunities in the future”.

The second initiative put in place this season, is the introduction of a Finals day similar in format to the hugely popular Bartercard Baywide Finals, which are the climax to senior club rugby each season. On the 28th August 2010 the two top teams in each division will fight out their respective championships.

BOP Secondary Schools Rugby Chairman Tony Marrow said “This season we will have 73 secondary schools teams competing over six divisions, which caters for all levels of skills and ability”. “The eight team Division One, should give the Rotorua Boys High and Tauranga Boys College first and second fifteens, some solid competition before they embark on their Super Eight campaigns in June”,

Over the years a multitude of top class players have emerged from Bay of Plenty secondary school rugby. Last season Kaperiere (Papa) Wharewera from Rotorua Boys High School along with Carl Axtens and Sam Cane from Reporoa College, were selected for the New Zealand Secondary Schools team.

The Bay three joined a select group of former Bay of Plenty NZ Secondary School representatives that include 2009 Steamers Luke Braid, Jason Hona, Tanerau Latimer, Lance MacDonald, Ben Smith and Cory Aporo.

The Bay of Plenty Polytechnic Secondary Schools competition is unique, in that a number of Taupo regional secondary schools, compete in the Baywide secondary school competitions.

This Saturday (24 April 2010) kicks of the three grades of first fifteen competitions. While two games in the premier division will be played at later dates due to traditional interschool competitions - taking centre stage in Rotorua will be the clash between the Rotorua Boys second eleven and last years second round champions Opotiki College

Bay of Plenty Polytechnic Secondary Schools Rugby First Fifteen Draws 24 April 2010 (Home team first)
Division One: Rotorua BHS 2nd VX v Opotiki, Trident HS v Western Heights HS.
Division Two: Reporoa v Otumoetai, Tauhara v Mount Maunganui, Katikati v Whakatane HS, JPC v Rotorua Lakes, Tauranga Boys 3 v Edgecumbe.
Division Three: Taupo Nui A Tai v Rangitahi, Bethlehem v Tongariro, Kawerau v Rotorua BHS 4

For further information contact:
Mike Rogers BOPRU Operations Manager
DDI 07 927 1316 029 478 4292

TE PUNA DEFEAT WHAKAREWAREWA

Wed, 21 Apr 2010 12:36:12 +0100

Bartercard Baywide Rugby Review 18 April 2010

Te Puna pushed their way into the Bartercard Baywide Premier competition top four, with a bonus point victory over Whakarewarewa at Maramatanga Park on Saturday (17 April 2010).

The Western Bay side were in a strong position at the break leading 24-5, and went on to take out the match 32-13. While they had posted in two narrow losses in the competition start, the bonus points that they have accumulated, have put the blue and black brigade into third equal place with Mount Maunganui.

The four tries that Hori Leef, Taimania Tata, Aidan Kuka and Tapene Mika dotted down, ensued that Te Puna picked up their sixth bonus point in just four games. Barney Te Kani flew the flag for Whaka grabbing two tries and slotting a penalty goal.

Defending Premier titleholders Tauranga Sports, continued to lead the way in the championship race, with a solid 40-6 victory against Opotiki at the Tauranga Domain. The visitors took an early lead courtesy of two penalties kicked by Te Amo Wilbore – however it was mostly one-way traffic after the first ten minutes of the encounter.

A double to Steamers loose forward Luke Braid led the way for the home side, who took a 18-6 lead into the break. The best try of the match came from flying winger Matt Hodson’s kick and chase, which slid into touch three metres from the line. A quick throw-in from Hodson to Tristan Moran, saw the prop stroll over to collect five points.

Rotoiti won a battle of attrition with Rangataua at Emery Park. The teams defended their line with determination - with Rangataua’s Barry Parkinson penalty goal the only scoring play of the first half. A try to David Fraser and three points from the boot of Whakataki Cunninghan, resulted in Rotoiti taking out an 8-3 victory.

Mount Maunganui continued their undefeated start to the season with a 44-17 win against a Whakatane Marist in the Eastern Bay. Seven tries to the visitors including a brace awarded to Dan Waenga, told the tale of the visitors superiority.

An extremely relieved Te Puke Sports walked from their home ground at Murray Salt Stadium, with a narrow 18-15 victory over a game Te Teko team.

The Division One feature game between home side Waikite and Rangiuru, who both took unbeaten records into the encounter – was taken out by Waikite who posted a 33-10 victory, to also pick up the Div One championship favourites mantle.

The three other second echelon games that were played, all went down to the wire. Greerton Marist and Kahukura finished with a 20 all draw, Reporoa sneaked past Marist St Michaels 19-18 with Ngongotaha shading Paroa 16-14.

Defending Colts champions Ngongotaha were held to a 17 all draw with Rotoiti in the curtain-raiser at Emery Park. Greerton Marist surged to the top of the Colts competition points ladder with a 36-5 win against Te Teko - with Tauranga Sports, Te Puna, Mount Maunganui, Te Puke Sports and Marist St Michaels all banking win points.

Bartercard Baywide Rugby Results 17 April 2010

Premier

Tauranga Sports 40 (Luke Braid 2, Steven Honey, Tristan Moran, Matt Hodson, Jason Karauria tries; Nic Evemy 2con pen, Hodson dg) Opotiki 6 (Te Amo Wilbore 2 pens). HT: 18-6.

Te Puna 32 (Hori Leaf, Taimania Tata, Aidan Kuka, Tapene Mika tries; Darrell Houia 2pen 3con) Whakarewarewa 13 (Barney Te Kani 2 tries, pen). HT: 24-5.

Rotoiti 8 (David Fraser try; Whakataki Cunningham pen) Rangataua 5 (Barry Parkinson try). HT: 3-5.

Te Puke Sports 18 (Dillon Lee, Nathan Burt, Simon Chisholm tries; Nic McCashin pen) Te Teko 15 (Luke O'Brien, Anthony Studer tries; Scott Sutherland pen con).

Mount Maunganui 44 (Dan Waenga 2, Sam Mayes, Malakai Kisina, Troye Elvin, Cory Aporo, Tutere Waenga tries; Dan Waenga pen 3con) Whakatane Marist 17 (Simon Kolo'ofa'i, QJ Ohia tries; Craig Edwards 2con pen). HT: 20-10.

Points Table: Tauranga Sports 18, Rotoiti 15, Mount Maunganui 14, Te Puna 14, Opotiki 11, Te Puke Sports 10, Whakatane Marist 6, Te Teko 6, Whakarewarewa 5, Rangataua 4.

Division one:

Waikite 33 Rangiuru 10, Reporoa 19 Marist St Michaels 18, Greerton Marist 20 Kahukura 20, Ngongotaha 16 Paroa 14, Ruatoki won by default.

Colts:

Rotoiti 17 Ngongotaha 17, Tauranga Sports 29 Opotiki 19, Te Puna 11 Whakarewarewa 5, Mount Maunganui 54 Whakatane Marist 0, Marist St Michaels 14 Rangataua 10, Greerton Marist 36 Te Teko 5, Te Puke Sports won by default.

For further information contact:
Mike Rogers BOPRU Operations Manager
DDI 07 927 1316 029 478 4292

CLOSE ENCOUNTERS IN BARTERCARD BAYWIDE RUGBY IN ROUND THREE

Mon, 12 Apr 2010 14:57:27 +0100

Bartercard Baywide Rugby Review 11 April 2010

Bay of Plenty Baywide Premier rugby results on Saturday (10 April 2010) suggested that the 2010 top echelon championship, will go down to the wire in late July before the post section contenders are found.

With just three rounds concluded in the title race, the evenness of the competition is indicated by all four losing teams picking up bonus points on the weekend.

The Eastern Bay of Plenty local derby between home side Opotiki and Whakatane Marist, was a battle of attrition with just a solitary try in the match. The home side led 10-3 at the break, with Luke Morris scoring the Opotiki try and Sam Howe slotting the conversion and a penalty goal.

In spite of a determined reply from the Whakatane side, they were restricted to two penalty goals from the boot of Craig Edwards, with Opotiki posting a 10-6 victory. The Opotiki victory sees the team from one of the extremities of Bay of Plenty, posting an unbeaten record, with two wins and a draw from three matches.

Defending Baywide champions Tauranga Sports are the only team to post three wins in the competition, after they despatched Whakarewarewa 19-12 at Puarenga Park. Tauranga Sports dotted down three tries to Kent Rae, Matt Hodson and cricket star Te Ahu Davis - while Doug Edwards and Boxer Smith scored the two Whaka touchdowns.

Mount Maunganui finished their encounter with near neighbour Rangataua with the scoreboard showing a 21 all draw. This was the second game this season that the Mount have been involved in a tied result.

Chad Jacobs and Zion Nordstrom grabbed the home side tries, with Glen Strang and Alex Jessup crossing for Rangataua. The drawn result means that the Jordan Cup (WBOP Challenge trophy) remains in the Rangataua trophy cabinet.

Te Puna came from ten points down to defeat Te Teko at Dunderdale Park in the Eastern Bay. Tajohn Malata continued on his try scoring ways this season bagging a double, with Tipene Mika and Sam Holloway also dotting down for Te Puna.

Another close run affair took place at Murray Salt Stadium, where home side Te Puke Sports faced a determined challenge from long time rivals Rotoiti. The visitors who took a 17-10 lead into the half time break, went on to eke out a 28-22 victory.

With three tries apiece, the difference at the end was the goal kicking of Rotoiti’s Whakataki Cunningham who calmly slotted three penalties and two conversions.

In Division One Waikite and Rangiuru continued too post big scores this season. Waikite ran away from Arataki 71-3, with Rangiuru waltzing away from Marist St Michaels 77-7. Other Div One side to post victories were Kahukura, Ngongotaha and Greerton Marist.

In the Colts title race, defending champions Ngongotaha had a good tussle with Te Puna before grabbing a 27-14 victory. Last years Baywide runner-up Te Puke Sports had a field day against Rotoiti winning 61-5 - with Mount Maunganui, Opotiki, Tauranga Sports, Marist St Michaels and Greerton Marist all banking win points.

Bartercard Baywide Rugby Results 10 April 2010

Premier

Opotiki 10 (Luke Morris try; Sam Howe con pen) Whakatane Marist 6 (Craig Edwards 2pen). HT: 10-3.
Mount Maunganui 21 (Chad Jacob, Zion Nordstrom tries; Dan Waenga 3pen con) Rangataua 21 (Glen Strang, Alex Jessop tries; Quentin Gardiner 3pen con). HT: 9-6 Mt.
Tauranga Sports 19 (Kent Rae, Te Ahu Davis, Matt Hodson tries; Brendon Clark 2con)
Whakarewarewa 12 (Doug Edwards, Boxer Smith tries; Barney Te Kani con). HT: 19-0.
Rotoiti 28 (Cory Marsters, Siegfied Fiishoi, J Tawake tries; Whakataki Cunningham 3 pens 2 con) Te Puke Sports 22 (Craig Donovan, Andrew Tuise, Nic McCashin tries; McCashin 2 con pen)
Te Puna 24 (Tajohn Malata 2, Tipene Mika, Sam Holloway tries; Daryll Houia 2 cons) Te Teko 17 (Derek Savage, Wharepapa Ruben, Rae Forbes tries; Scott Sutherland con)

Division One:

Kahukura 21 Paroa 14, Ngongotaha 23 Reporoa 19, Greerton Marist 24 Ruatoki 7, Rangiuru 77 Marist St Michaels 7, Waikite 71 Arataki 3

Colts:

Marist St Michaels 30 Te Teko 21, Te Puke Sports 61 Rotoiti 5, Tauranga Sports 32, Whakarewarewa 22, Mount Maunganui 35 Rangataua 19, Ngongotaha 24 Te Puna 14, Greerton Marist defeated Katikati, Opotiki won by default

For further information contact:
Mike Rogers BOPRU Operations Manager
DDI 07 927 1316 029 478 4292

EASTERN BAY DERBY TAKES CENTRE STAGE

Thu, 08 Apr 2010 14:51:48 +0100

Bartercard Baywide Rugby Preview - 8 April 2010

Last season saw the re-emergence of Eastern Bay of Plenty teams as contenders in the Bartercard Baywide Premier competition.

The Whakatane Marist upset of Whakarewarewa, and the Opotiki defeat of Rangataua at the Easter break, confirmed that the three Eastern Bay sides look genuine top four contenders this season.

Taking centre stage in the Eastern Bay this Saturday (10 April 2010) is the local derby between Opotiki and Whakatane Marist. There should be a large crowd on hand at the Opotiki Reserve, as the two neighbour’s battle for local superiority.

Fellow Eastern Bay contenders Te Teko are at home at Dunderdale Park, and will meet Te Puna. While Te Teko has a win over Whakatane Marist on their ledger sheet, Te Puna has started the season with two narrow losses.

Defending Baywide Premier Champions Tauranga Sports have picked up from last season with two victories. Last weekend they swept past Te Teko 71-22, laying down the challenge to the other top echelon contenders.

A real bonus for Tauranga is the return of flying winger Matt Hodson, who missed most of last season with injury. Last weekend he showcased his skills running in three tries. This Saturday the Tauranga team face a real challenge to their season unbeaten run.

Whakarewarewa at Puarenga Park in Rotorua will give the Tauranga visitors a reality check of their season ambitions. The Rotorua side have been perennial Baywide Premier Semi-finalists for the past decade, and never surrender at Puarenga Park without a real fight.

Western Bay neighbours Mount Maunganui and Rangataua will meet at Blake Park. The Western BOP Sub-Union challenge trophy is on the line and provides an extra edge to the match. Last season Rangataua finished the season with the Jordan Cup in their possession.

In the last few years the annual battles between Te Puke Sports and Rotoiti, have usually gone down to the wire. This weekend Rotoiti will travel to face Te Puke Sports at their home base at Murray Salt Stadium.

No team has made more of an impression in Division One this season, than Rangiuru. With a number of youngsters debuting, the Te Puke based side has posted over one hundred points in their first two encounters. This Saturday they host Marist St Michaels at Jamieson Oval.

In other Div One match-ups Arataki could struggle against Waikite when they come to call at Grenada Park, Paroa meet Kahukura in the Eastern Bay, Ngongotaha travel to Reporoa and Ruatoki host Greerton Marist at Tuhoe Park.

Defending Baywide Colts champions Ngongotaha could have their hands full against Te Puna at the Ngongotaha Domain. There will be plenty of interest in the curtain-raiser at Puarenga Park, with Whaka taking on their Tauranga Sports counterparts.

BOPRU Bartercard Baywide Draws 10 April 2010

Premier (2.45pm) Te Teko v Te Puna, Dunderdale Park; Mount Maunganui v Rangataua, Blake Park; Te Puke Sports v Rotoiti, Murray Salt Stadium; Opotiki v Whakatane Marist, Opotiki Reserve; Whakarewarewa v Tauranga Sports, Puarenga Park.

Division One (2.45pm) Arataki v Waikite, Grenada Park; Paroa v Kahukura, Lawson Park; Reporoa v Ngongotaha, Reporoa; Rangiuru v Marist St Michaels, Jamieson Oval; Ruatoki v Greerton Marist, Tuhoe Park.

Colts (1pm) Mount Maunganui v Rangataua, Blake Park; Opotiki v Whakarewarewa, Opotiki Reserve; Whakarewarewa v Tauranga Sports, Puarenga Park; Ngongotaha v Te Puna, Ngongotaha Domain; Marist St Michaels v Te Teko, Marist Park; Te Puke Sports v Rotoiti, Murray Salt Stadium; Greerton Marist v Katikati, Greerton Park;

For further information contact:
Mike Rogers BOPRU Operations Manager
DDI 07 927 1316 029 478 4292

WHAKATANE MARIST UPSET WHAHAREWAREWA

Tue, 06 Apr 2010 16:39:07 +0100

Bartercard Baywide Rugby Review 4 April 2010

One of the bigger upsets in Baywide rugby in recent season took place at Rugby Park in Whakatane on Easter Friday (2 April 2010) when Whakatane Marist defeated Rotorua heavyweight Whakarewarewa.

The home team made the early running and took a 12-3 lead into the half time break. Whakatane Marist never took their foot from the pedal, and while Whaka scored three second half tries touched down by Doug Edwards, Aleki Kisina and Barney Te Kani – Whakatane Marist put on eighteen points to take out the encounter 30-17.

For the victors Jevon Nikora, Thomas Haney, Pineaha McNeill and Beau Kiel scored tries with Craig Edwards adding two conversions and two penalty goals.

In the only Baywide game played on Easter Saturday, Opotiki came from a nine-point deficit in the second spell, to take out the encounter at Te Ariki Park 32-19. Rangataua led 16-10 at the break courtesy of a try to Timoti Gardiner, two penalties and a conversion to John Ririnui and a dropped goal to Alex Jessup.

The home side extended the lead with another penalty to Ririnui, before Opotiki roared back into the match in the last quarter. Three tries to Dean Elmiger Te Hata Wilbore and Taka Armi became one-way traffic, as Opotiki swept to a thirteen-point victory. Joseph Howe also dotted down for the winners, with Sam Howe kicking two penalties and converting three tries.

At the Tauranga Domain on Friday, Tauranga Sports had a field day against Te Teko winning 71-22. Flying winger Matt Hodson touched down three times with his third try a kick and chase solo effort.

One game that went down to the wire, was the match at Emery Park between Rotoiti and Mount Maunganui. With the home side having the advantage with the clock ticking down, a last gasp Mount attack produced a touch down – and a 32-26 victory to Mount Maunganui.

Chad Jacobs was in outstanding form for the Mount notching up three of his sides tries, with Luther Robinson dotting down twice for Rotoiti.

Te Puna could only watch in anguish, as Te Puke Sports came from behind in the closing seconds of the game at Maramatanga Park, to snatch a 30-29 victory. The home side took a narrow 7-6 lead into the break, and with a minute left on the clock scored to lead by six points.

From the kick off, Te Puke roared into action and dotted down their fourth try. With the conversion sailing between the uprights, Te Puke Sports had snatched a dramatic one-point victory. Consolation for Te Puna, was provide by their five tries to the visitors four – and the two bonus points that they collected.

Rangiuru broke through the one hundred-point barrier, in just two games in the Division One headliner, when they beat Ngongotaha 55-13 at the Ngongotaha Domain. In what was expected to be a close contest, the Te Puke based team left the Ngongotaha players in their wake as they cruised to a 55-13 victory.

Waikite who have set their sights on a return to the top echelon, made no race of their home game with Ruatoki winning 49 nil. Kahukura had a good battle with Reporoa before prevailing 29-23, St Michaels came from behind to defeat Arataki 20-17 and Greerton Marist got home from Paroa 34-10.

Bartercard Baywide Rugby Results 1/3 April 2010

Te Puke 30 (Craig Donovan 2, Andrew Tuise 2 tries; Nic McCashin 2pen 2 cons) Te Puna 29 (Daniel Schuster 2, Vance Bidois, Tajohn Malata, Shannon Borrell tries; Lance Houia 2 cons) HT 6-7

Mount Maunganui 32 (Chad Jacobs 3, Tutere Waenga tries; Sam Jurisich pen & con; Dan Waenga 2 con pen) Rotoiti 26 (Luther Robinson 2, Clayton Cassidy, Ngakana Daniella tries; Whakataki Cunningham 3 cons)

Tauranga Sports 71 (Matt Hodson 3, Afai Esera 2, Steve Honey, Gareth Brown, Brendon Clark, Adam Robinson, Phil Burleigh tries; Clark 7con, Burleigh con, Jason Karauria con) Te Teko 22 (Ave Avina, Luke O'Brien, Dan Godbold tries; Scott Sutherland pen 2con). HT: 28-17.

Whakatane Marist 30 (Jevon Nikora, Thomas Haney, Pineaha McNeill, Beau Kiel tries; Craig Edwards 2con, 2pen) Whakarewarewa 17 (Doug Edwards, Aleki Kisina tries; Barney Te Kani 2con pen). HT: 12-3.

Opotiki 32 (Joseph Howe, Dean Elmiger, Te Hata Wilbore, Taka Armi tries; Sam Howe 3 cons 2 pens) Rangataua 19 (Timoti Gardiner try; John Ririnui 2 pen con, Alex Jessup dg) HT 10-16

Division One
Kahukura 29 Reporoa 23, Waikite 49 Ruatoki 0, Greerton Marist 34 Paroa 10, Rangiuru 55 Ngongotaha 13, St Michaels 20 Arataki 17.

For further information contact:
Mike Rogers BOPRU Operations Manager
DDI 07 927 1316 029 478 4292

BAY RUGBY TO RUN NEW HOLIDAY PROGRAM

Tue, 06 Apr 2010 16:36:51 +0100

Media Release 1 April 2010

A considerable number of rugby stars of the future, will have the opportunity to rub shoulders with their heroes during the school holidays.

In a new initiative, the Bay of Plenty Rugby Union is putting together a school holiday program, for youngsters of the region. The Bay of Plenty Steamers will be an integral part of the holiday programme that will take place at Mount Maunganui, Rotorua and Whakatane during the first term school holidays.

The holiday program is aimed at both boys and girls between seven and twelve years of age. While the intention of the program is to teach the youngsters present fundamental rugby skills, the emphasis is on fun and enjoyment.

With the Steamers on hand the holiday program is more than just teaching basic rugby skills. There will be plenty of fun and games with a prize giving at the completion of each program.

In a region where Maori rugby rules supreme, the youngsters will be given instruction in performing the Haka. A fun component should be where the youngsters get to hold their own media session. A Rippa Rugby tournament will round out the two days of non-stop action

In an attempt to attract as many rugby mad youngsters of the region as possible, the price has been kept to a modest thirty dollars for the two-day program.

Registering to book a place which is sure to sell out, is as simple as ringing Kane Hames (BOPRU Rugby Development Officer) on 07 574 2037 or 029 471 2696.

Bay of Plenty Rugby Union Holiday Program
6th & 7th April – Blake Park, Mount Maunganui
13th & 14th April – Kahukura Rugby Club, Rotorua
15th & 16th April – Rugby Park, Whakatane

For further information contact:
Mike Rogers BOPRU Operations Manager
DDI 07 927 1316 029 478 4292

EASTER RUGBY ACTION SPREAD OVER THREE DAYS

Thu, 01 Apr 2010 11:03:14 +0100

Bartercard Baywide Rugby Preview 31 March 2010

The Easter holiday break provides three days of Bartercard Baywide rugby, kicking off on Thursday evening (1 April 2010) when Te Puna host Te Puke Sports, under lights at Maramatanga Park.

Both the two combatants on Thursday evening, were on the wrong end of results in the opening round of the Baywide top echelon last weekend, and will be desperate to put points on the board at Maramatanga Park.

Te Puna had a real tussle with Rotoiti last week, coming back from a 16 point deficit to touch down two tries late in the encounter, to lose 31-27. By contrast Te Puke Sports led defending premier champions Tauranga Sports, before the Tauranga side swept past the hosts with two converted tries, to take out the match 27-17.

The three Bay of Plenty regions will host a premier game apiece on Easter Friday. At the Tauranga Domain Tauranga Sports will be at home when Eastern Bay side Te Teko comes to call.

Taking aim at a fourth successive Baywide crown, Tauranga Sports have no illusions that they are the target in each of their Baywide matches. The introduction of several newcomers including cricket star Te Ahu Davis, looks to have strengthened the Western Bay side.

Last weekend Te Teko had a real battle in their Eastern Bay local derby with Whakatane Marist. A feature of the 18-14 win was the three tries scored by last years Division One champions.

In the Rotorua region, Rotoiti will welcome the Mount Maunganui challengers, who intend to take away the home teams season unbeaten record. Rotoiti make Emery Park a fortress, and any points that visitors take home are usually the result of a real battle.

While Mount Maunganui had to settle for a 25 all draw with Opotiki last week, they will want to return home with a highly prized victory over Rotoiti at Emery Park, on their ledger card.

The Easter Friday match-up at Rugby Park in Whakatane, between Whakatane Marist and Rotorua heavyweight Whakarewarewa, should attract a good-sized crowd.

The sole top echelon game on Saturday, could be a fast paced affair with Rangataua at home at Te Ariki Park to Opotiki. The home side have a reputation from attacking from deep in their own half. Revenge will be on the mind of the Eastern Bay side after losing their last game against Rangataua by just two points.

In Division One, the Saturday game at the Ngongotaha Domain, between the home team and Rangiuru will take centre stage in the second echelon. Ngongotaha were one of the real heavyweights of the Baywide top echelon in the 1990’s, and have set their sights of playing in the premier division again.

Te Puke based Rangiuru laid their cards on the table last weekend, defeating former premier contenders Kahukura 50-16. With Bob Moorhead again in charge of coaching duties, the Te Puke side are looking like genuine championship contenders.

In other Div One matches Kahukura host Reporoa, Waikite and Ruatoki meet at Bellvue Road, St Michaels host Arataki and Greerton Marist and Paroa go head to head at Greerton Park.

Bartercard Baywide Rugby Draws 1/3 April 2010

1st April (Thursday)
Premier: Te Puna v Te Puke Sports, Maramatanga Park (7.30pm)
2nd April (Friday)
Premier: Rotoiti v Mount Maunganui, Emery Park (1.30pm) Whakatane Marist v Whakarewarewa, Rugby Park (2.30pm) Tauranga Sports v Te Teko, Tauranga Domain (2.45pm)
Division One: Kahukura v Reporoa, Kuirau Park (2.45pm) Waikite v Ruatoki, Bellvue Road (2.30pm) Ngongotaha v Rangiuru, Ngongotaha Domain (2.45pm)
3rd April (Saturday)
Premier: Rangataua v Opotiki, Te Ariki Park (2.45pm)
Division One St Michaels v Arataki, Marist Park (2.45pm); Greerton Marist v Paroa, Greerton Park (2.45pm)
Colts – No Play.

For further information contact:
Mike Rogers BOPRU Operations Manager
DDI 07 927 1316 029 478 4292

TAURANGA SPORTS WIN DRAMATIC 2009 FINAL REPLAY

Mon, 29 Mar 2010 09:52:27 +0100

Media Release 28 March 2010

Tauranga Sports posted a come from behind victory, in the first round of the Bartercard Baywide Premier competition, when they defeated Te Puke Sports 27-17 in a replay of last year’s premier grand final.

While defending Baywide premier champions Tauranga Sports, took a 10-6 lead into the half-time break – Te Puke hit the lead in the second spell, before the visitors ran in two tries late in the match, to grab a dramatic victory. The first round Tauranga victory follows last years Baywide final stanza, where they also prevailed 31-23.

A fast paced affair at Maramatanga Park resulted in Rotoiti grabbing a narrow 31-27 win from home side Te Puna. The visitors scored first when Josevata Tawaka touched down, and they led 12-10 at the break.

A second try to Heywood Kuka early in the second forty minutes, gave Te Puna a narrow lead, before Rotoiti stormed back with three tries to post a sixteen-point advantage. However a solid finish from Te Puna who ran in two late tries, saw Rotoiti return home with a four point victory.

In a day of close contests, the match-up in Opotiki between the home side and Mount Maunganui, resulted in the two teams being unable to be separated at full time. With three tries apiece, along with ten points the boots of Opotiki’s Sam Howe and Sam Jurisich from the Mount, saw the game result in a 25 all draw.

In Rotorua Baywide heavyweight Whakarewarewa just got home from Rangataua 17-16, with the local; Eastern Bay derby resulting in Te Teko edging past Whakatane Marist 18-14.

In Division One Rangiuru made their season intentions clear, when they swept past former top echelon side Kahukura 50-16. Bob Moorhead has returned to duty to coach the Te Puke based side, who look early contenders for championship honours later in the season.

Two former Baywide heavyweights both posted substantial victories. Waikite defeated Greerton Marist 36-15, with Ngongotaha posting a 45-7 win over Arataki in the Western Bay. Other Div one teams to win, were Ruatoki who beat Marist St Michaels 31-5, while Paroa had a good battle with Reporoa before prevailing 15-10 in Reporoa.

Last seasons Colts champions Ngongotaha, showed that they would be seeking back to back titles, comprehensively defeating Te Teko 49-7. The Western Bay derby between Tauranga Sports and Te Puke Sports, was taken out by the Te Puke side who won 21-7.

Whaka Colts proved too good for Rangataua winning 46-12, with Te Puna, Mount Maunganui and Greerton Marist also entering victories into their ledger card.

Bay of Plenty Bartercard Baywide Rugby Results 27 March 2010

Premier:

Rotoiti 31 (Joeevata Tawaka, Clayton Cassidy, Daryll Albert, Siegfried Fiishoii, Whakataki Cunningham tries; Cunningham 3 cons) Te Puna 27 (Heywood Kuka 2, Tajohn Malata, Tapine Mika, Daniel Schuster tries; Tarzan Faulkner con) HT 12-10
Tauranga Sports 27 (Tristian Moran 2, Nick Evemy tries; Brendan Clark 3con 2pen) Te Puke Sports 17 (Andrew Tuise try; Nick McCashin 4pen). HT: 10-6.

Whakarewarewa 17 (Aleki Kisina, Harold Koia tries; Barney Te Kani 2con pen) Rangataua 16 (Akira Mako try; John Ririnui 3pen). HT: 10-0.
Te Teko 18 (Ray Forbes, Luke O’Brien, Anthony Studer tries; Ariki Henry pen) Whakatane Marist 14 (Craig Edwards 2; Edwards 2 cons)
Opotiki 25 (Freeman Edwardson, Darcy Croswell, Te Hata Wilbore tries; Sam Howe 2 pen 2 cons) Mount Maunganui 25 (Sam Jurisich, Chad Jacobs, M Kisina tries; Jurisich 2 pen 2 cons)

Division One:

Ngongotaha 45 Arataki 7, Ruatoki 31 Marist St Michaels 5, Waikite 36 Greerton Marist 15, Paroa 15 Reporoa 10, Rangiuru 50 Kahukura 16.

Colts:

Te Puna 27 Rotoiti 7, Mount Maunganui 18 Opotiki 10, Greerton Marist 85 Whakatane Marist 0, Whakarewarewa 46 Rangataua 12, Ngongotaha 49 Te Teko 7, Marist St Michaels won by default.

For further information contact:
Mike Rogers BOPRU Operations Manager
DDI 07 927 1316 029 478 4292

TAURANGA AND TE PUKE MEET IN FINALS REPLAY

Thu, 25 Mar 2010 16:26:15 +0100

Media Release 25 March 2010

There is plenty of anticipation and optimism, leading into the start of the BOPRU Bartercard Baywide rugby competitions this Saturday (27 March 2010).

While the Baywide contests start in the balmy days of early autumn, there will be real slog through the winter months, before the championship winners are crowned in early August.

Taking centre stage are the ten teams that will chase Premier Division glory. One match that should attract a large crowd, is the game at Murray Salt Stadium, between reigning Baywide Premier champions Tauranga Sports, and their 2009 grand final opponents Te Puke Sports.

The Premier final at the Tauranga Domain was a classic contest with the result in doubt until the final whistle. While Tauranga Sports scored first, the Te Puke side took a 15-13 lead into the half time break.

With the prospect of extra time looming late in the second half, Eruera Haimona calmly kicked a penalty - with the Tauranga victory coming with Toby Arnold crossing for a try with time up on the clock. The 31-23 win to Tauranga Sports, gave the side an unprecedented three successive Premier championship titles.

Rotorua sides Whakarewarewa and Rotoiti, have been amongst the heavyweights of the top echelon of Baywide rugby, for the last decade. Both sides make their home grounds virtual fortresses with visitors having to fight to return home with any points.

This weekend Whakarewarewa will have a good test when Rangataua come to call. In the past two years the Western Bay side have become genuine contenders. Rotoiti will hit the road to travel to Maramatanga Park in the Western Bay to face Te Puna.

The last couple of seasons, has brought a real revival of the competitiveness of Eastern Bay of Plenty sides. Last season Opotiki and Whakatane Marist were contender in the top echelon, while Te Teko annexed the Baywide Division One title.

A local Eastern Bay derby, will take centre stage at Rugby Park in Whakatane, where Te Teko and Whakatane Marist will go head to head. Opotiki open their Baywide campaign hosting 2005 Premier champions Mount Maunganui.

The new Baywide format this season, provides automatic promotion to the Premier division next season, for the winner of this years Division One championship. Div One shows the wide spectrum of clubs in Bay of Plenty rugby. From the rural communities of Reporoa and Ruatoki - to Kahukura and Marist St Michaels who have home grounds in the heart of Rotorua City.

Former Premier heavyweight Rangiuru, should have a real battle on their hands, when they play Kahukura at Kuirau Park in the Sulphur City. Marist St Michaels will get a taste of the country travelling to play Ruatoki at Tuhoe Park.

In other Div one encounters Waikite host Greerton Marist, Paroa travel to face Reporoa, and former Premier sides Arataki and Ngongotaha meet in the Western Bay.

Katikati, who returned to Baywide rugby last season, will field a team in the Colts Division for the first time for many years. On Saturday they will host Marist St Michaels at Moore Park.

Ngongotaha kick off the defence of their Baywide Colts title against Te Teko, with last season’s runner-up Te Puke Sports at home to archrivals Tauranga Sports.

BOPRU Bartercard Draws 27 March 2010

Premier Division (2.45pm) Te Teko v Whakatane Marist, Dunderdale Park; Opotiki v Mount Maunganui, Opotiki Reserve; Te Puna v Rotoiti, Maramatanga Park; Whakarewarewa v Rangataua, Puarenga Park; Te Puke Sports v Tauranga Sports, Murray Salt Stadium.

Division One (2.45pm) Waikite v Greerton Marist, Bellvue Park; Ruatoki v Marist St Michaels, Tuhoe Park; Reporoa v Paroa, Reporoa; Kahukura v Rangiuru, Kuirau Park; Arataki v Ngongotaha, Grenada Park.

Colts (1pm) Whakarewarewa v Rangataua, Puarenga Park; Te Puna v Rotoiti, Maramatanga Park; Opotiki v Mount Maunganui, Opotiki Reserve; Greerton Marist v Whakatane Marist, Greerton Park; Katikati v Marist St Michaels, Moore Park; Te Puke Sports v Tauranga Sports, Murray Salt Stadium; Ngongotaha v Te Teko, Ngongotaha Domain.

For further information contact:
Mike Rogers BOPRU Operations Manager
DDI 07 927 1316 029 478 4292

NEW FORMAT OPENS CLUB RUGBY SEASON

Thu, 25 Mar 2010 13:12:05 +0100

Media Release 24 March 2010

The start of the Bay of Plenty club rugby season this Saturday (27 March 2010) brings an exciting new competition format.

The new format is based upon two Baywide divisions of ten teams, supported by strong local division rugby competitions. The new format came after extensive consultation with the Bay of Plenty rugby community during the 2009 season.

Bay of Plenty Rugby Union Operations Manager Mike Rogers said “that the major benefit of the new competition format, is that it creates potential for competitive competitions across all grades of Bay of Plenty rugby”. “The new initiative also provides the opportunity to retain the hugely successful Bartercard Club finals day.”

“The new format provides a clear pathway for teams to earn promotion to the Premier Division, by way of automatic promotion/relegation”. “Another major gain will be to strengthen local senior competitions” said Mike

The flagship of the new Baywide competition is a Premier division, where teams will play two full rounds of round robin competition, finishing with semi-finals and a grand final, The Baywide Division One competition will mirror the Premier division.

The remainder of the Bay of Plenty senior sides will compete in local competitions, where the top two teams from each region, will contest the Baywide Division Two playoffs. The prize at stake to the winner of the Division Two championship, will be an automatic berth in the Baywide competition the next season.

The continued success of many of the clubs in the Bay of Plenty, is built upon a direct pathway from age group rugby to the senior ranks. That pathway is provided by the BOPRU Baywide Colts competition.

This season fourteen Colts sides will start the journey, to find the best age group team in the Bay of Plenty. A new entrant this year comes from the extremities of the Bay of Plenty. Katikati who re-entered the Bay senior ranks last season have also entered a Colts side this season.

2010 Baywide Teams
Premier Division: Tauranga Sports, Te Puke Sports, Whakarewarewa, Rangataua, Mount Maunganui, Opotiki Sports, Rotoiti, Te Teko, Whakatane Marist, Te Puna.

Division One: Kahukura, Waikite, Greerton Marist, Ngongotaha, Reporoa, Rangiuru, Arataki, Ruatoki, Marist St Michaels, Paroa.

Colts: Whakarewarewa, Rotoiti, Marist St Michaels, Ngongotaha, Rangataua, Te Puna, Tauranga Sports, Te Puke Sports, Mount Maunganui, Greerton Marist, Katikati, Opotiki, Whakatane Marist, Te Teko.

For further information contact:
Mike Rogers BOPRU Operations Manager
DDI 07 927 1316 029 478 4292

ITM CUP THE NEW PRIZE OF NATIONAL PROVICIAL RUGBY

Tue, 16 Mar 2010 11:04:08 +0100

MEDIA RELEASE -15 March 2010

Click here to download 2010 ITM Cup draw.

New Zealand-owned building suppliers’ co-operative ITM will sponsor the premier national provincial competition this year through to 2012, the New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRU) has announced today.

ITM will be the new title sponsor for the national domestic competition taking over the sponsorship from Air New Zealand which has decided to focus its energy on supporting the All Blacks.

NZRU Chief Executive Steve Tew welcomed ITM as a perfect fit with New Zealand’s provincial rugby competition.

“ITM is a very parochial Kiwi-owned co-operative and they are very proud of their provincial reach across the country. Given the pride and support many communities have for their provincial teams, ITM is well placed to be at the centre of this competition.

“It’s an exciting time for ITM to come on board. We saw a great surge in support for the domestic competition last year, and the challenge this year will be to build on that and we are really forward to working with ITM to achieve just that,” Mr Tew said.

ITM Chief Executive Gordon Buswell said the co-operative membership was delighted with their new involvement in the competition. The ITM Cup was the perfect extension of their existing relationship with provincial rugby through their sponsorship of SKY TV’s coverage of the competition over the last three years.

“Putting our name behind this great tradition of provincial rugby reflects strongly where our heart and minds are which is right in the heart of our regions,” Mr Buswell said.

“The provincial pride of the ITM Cup also reflects the pride of our stores, customers and suppliers across the regions. We are all hugely excited about the competition this year.

“We and our members are thrilled about our association with the ITM Cup this year. Inter-provincial rivalry will take on a whole new meaning for our 90 stores across the country, as we not only anticipate a great competition but also celebrate the best of our provincial talent,” Mr Buswell said.

The NZRU today also released the competition draw for the 2010 ITM Cup, which gets under way with Taranaki v Northland at Yarrow Stadium, New Plymouth on Thursday 29 August.

This year is also North Harbour’s 25th anniversary, and the union kicks off their 2010 season by hosting the traditional battle of the bridge match against neighbours, Auckland on Sunday 1 August.

Otago will get the first opportunity to play Southland for the Ranfurly Shield in Week 2 of the ITM Cup. The ITM Cup Final will be played on Friday, 5 November.

Steve Tew said: “We are looking forward to another great season of provincial rugby and providing communities all over New Zealand an opportunity to show their support for their teams.”

(ITM Cup logos in .jpg and .eps attached for your use)

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For further information contact:

Juli Clausen

NZRU Media Manager

M: 0275 70 70 45

E: juli.clausen@nzrugby.co.nz

NEW ZEALAND SEVENS SQUAD FOR ADELAIDE NAMED

Mon, 15 Mar 2010 09:17:08 +0100

MEDIA RELEASE -12 March 2010

New Zealand Sevens Coach Gordon Tietjens has named his 12-man squad for the Adelaide leg of the IRB Sevens World Series.

Tietjens has named a largely unchanged squad from the NZI Sevens and Las Vegas tournaments with Bay of Plenty’s Toby Arnold coming in to replace Counties Manukau speedster Sherwin Stowers who is ruled out with an ankle injury. Bay of Plenty’s Solomon King was also unavailable for selection due to injury.

Waikato’s Save Tokula will travel with the team after successfully appealing a six- match ban he received at the Las Vegas tournament. On appeal the ban was reduced to four matches, meaning he will miss only the first two pool play matches in Adelaide as he stood down for two games in Las Vegas already.

Tietjens said preparations for Adelaide were going well.

“We had a great start to the season but the team were disappointed with their performances in the last two tournaments and we know we need to play at a higher level and improve our accuracy to be successful in Adelaide and Hong Kong,” added Tietjens.

New Zealand currently leads the IRB Sevens World Series with two wins from four tournaments.

Following the Adelaide tournament the team will travel to Hong Kong for the sixth leg of the IRB Sevens World Series.

New Zealand Sevens team for Adelaide:

Kurt Baker (Taranaki)

Tomasi Cama (Manawatu)

DJ Forbes (Counties Manukau)

Paul Grant (Otago)

Tim Mikkelson (Waikato)

Zar Lawrence (Bay of Plenty)

Fritz Lee (Counties Manukau)

Lote Raikabula (Manawatu)

Ben Souness (Taranaki)

Toby Arnold (Bay of Plenty)

Nafi Tuitavake (North Harbour)

Save Tokula (Waikato)

2009/2010 IRB World Sevens Series schedule:

19-21 March 2010 – Adelaide, Australia

26-28 March 2010 – Hong Kong

22-23 May 2010 – London, England

29-30 May 2010 – Edinburgh, Scotland

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For further information contact:

Kate Hutchison

NZRU Communications Administrator

M: +64 27 591 4673

E: kate.hutchison@nzrugby.co.nz

JAMIE JOSEPH TO COACH NZ MAORI WITH DARYL GIBSON ASSISTANT

Mon, 15 Mar 2010 09:16:15 +0100

MEDIA RELEASE - 12 March 2010

Two of Maori rugby’s favourite sons, Wellington Lions Coach Jamie Joseph and Crusaders Assistant Coach Daryl Gibson have been selected to coach New Zealand Maori in the team’s landmark Centenary year.

Joseph, who was Assistant Coach of New Zealand Maori in 2006 and the Wellington head Coach since 2008, will be New Zealand Maori head Coach while 35-year-old Gibson will be his assistant.

Forty-year-old Jamie Joseph, who played 20 Tests for the All Blacks from 1992 - 1995, comes from outstanding Maori rugby stock. His father Jim was a Marlborough and Maori rugby legend and a mainstay of the New Zealand Maori team in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Jamie followed in his father’s footsteps, playing 10 matches for New Zealand Maori from 1991 - 1994 and helping the team to its Churchill Cup victory in 2006, with wins over New South Wales, the USA, Ireland A and Scotland A.

Daryl Gibson played 12 matches for New Zealand Maori from 1996 through to 2001 in what was a hugely successful period for the team and won the Tom French Memorial Cup as Maori Player of the Year in 2000. He played 19 Tests for the All Blacks from 1999 to 2002 and has been Assistant Coach of the Crusaders since 2009.

The announcement of the coaching appointments comes as the New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRU) and New Zealand Maori Rugby Board (NZMRB) prepare to announce an exciting programme of matches for the New Zealand Maori team this year.

Centenary celebrations are already underway, the first of which will be a curtain raiser match between Te Hiku O Te Ika (Northern Region) and Te Tini a Maui (Central Region) at the Rebel Sport Super 14 match in Hamilton tonight between the Chiefs and the Crusaders.

Jamie Joseph said: “I’m thrilled by the challenge of coaching the team in such a milestone year.

“It’s a real honour to again be involved in coaching the New Zealand Maori team. All players that pull on the Maori jersey trace their whakapapa (genealogy) back to the Maori canoes that first arrived in New Zealand, and to the history of our people, so it means they embrace the huge responsibility of going out and playing as Maori rugby players,” he added.

The coaching appointments were made by a selection panel made up of NZMRB Chairman Wayne Peters, NZRU Board Member Graham Mourie and Brent Anderson, the NZRU General Manager of Provincial Union Relationships and Community Rugby.

Mr Peters said Jamie Joseph and Daryl Gibson were outstanding candidates.

“As former New Zealand Maori players, they both have an intimate knowledge of the team’s unique culture, values and expectations. As coaches they are also well versed in establishing a successful team culture and know what it takes to succeed. We wish them every success as they prepare for what promises to be an exciting year for the team,” Mr Peters said.

Mr Peters also paid tribute to former New Zealand Maori coach Donny Stevenson.

“Donny had an exceptional record as Assistant Coach under Matt Te Pou from 2002 - 2005 and as head Coach from 2006 to 2008 when the team won the Churchill Cup (2006) and the Pacific Nations Cup (2008). I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the fantastic work and passion and commitment he has shown for the New Zealand Maori team and for Maori rugby overall,” Mr Peters said.

Peter Potaka has been re-appointed as the New Zealand Maori team manager. Peter has worked with the team for the last eight campaigns and will bring a wealth of experience.

The New Zealand Maori team will be announced at the end of the Rebel Sport Super 14 in May.

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For further information contact:

Kate Hutchison

NZRU Communications Administrator

P: 04 494 0764

M: 027 591 4673

E: kate.hutchison@nzrugby.co.nz

2010 REBEL SPORT SUPER 14 KICK OFF NO. 4

Mon, 08 Mar 2010 09:58:50 +0100

Click here to download commplete 2010 Rebel Sports Super 14 Kick off No4 issue

2010 REBEL SPORT SUPER 14 KICK OFF

Wed, 24 Feb 2010 14:48:48 +0100

Click here to download 2010 Rebel Sport Super 14 Kick Off -Issue No 3.

NEW ZEALAND SEVENS SQUAD FOR NZI SEVENS NAMED

Tue, 02 Feb 2010 09:49:35 +0100

MEDIA RELEASE - 1 February 2009

New Zealand Sevens Coach Gordon Tietjens has named a largely experienced squad for the NZI Sevens tournament in Wellington this weekend.

Tietjens has selected just one debutant into the side, 21-year-old Fritz Lee from Counties Manukau.

Solomon King was not considered due to injury.

Tietjens said this was a very difficult squad to select.

“The squad has trained very well over the last few days and a lot of players put up their hands for selection. I have picked an experienced side and hopefully the team can continue with the great start they have had to the Series,” Tietjens said.

“It’s always great to play at home and Wellington is a pretty special tournament. The players know there is a little more pressure and expectation than usual, but they want to get out there and really turn it on for the home crowd,” added Tietjens.

New Zealand currently leads the IRB Sevens World Series with two wins from the first two tournaments.

The New Zealand team travels to Las Vegas for the third leg of the IRB Sevens World Series on Monday morning.

New Zealand Sevens team for NZI Sevens:

Kurt Baker (Taranaki)
Tomasi Cama (Manawatu)
DJ Forbes (Counties Manukau)
Paul Grant (Otago)
Tim Mikkelson (Waikato)
Zar Lawrence (Bay of Plenty)
Fritz Lee* (Counties Manukau)
Lote Raikabula (Manawatu)
Ben Souness (Taranaki)
Sherwin Stowers (Counties Manukau)
Nafi Tuitavake (North Harbour)
Save Tokula (Waikato)

Note: * denotes debutant

2009/2010 IRB World Sevens Series schedule:

5-6 February 2010 – Wellington, New Zealand
13-14 February 2010 – Las Vegas, USA
19-21 March 2010 – Adelaide, Australia
26-28 March 2010 – Hong Kong
22-23 May 2010 – London, England
29-30 May 2010 – Edinburgh, Scotland

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For further information contact:
Kate Hutchison
NZRU Communications Administrator
M: +64 27 591 4673
E: kate.hutchison@nzrugby.co.nz

UPDATED 2010 SUPER 14 DRAW

Wed, 27 Jan 2010 14:11:58 +0100

Wednesday - 27 January 2010

SANZAR MEDIA RELEASE

SANZAR has today released a revised draw for the 2010 Super 14 competition.
Matches for Weeks 10 and 14 of the competition have been slightly amended.

The changes to the 2010 Super 14 draw are as follows:

Week 10:
Saturday 17 April, Reds v Bulls, Brisbane, kick off 1940, GMT 0940 not GMT 1140, NZ time 2140 not 2340, SA time 1140 not 1340.
Week 14:
Saturday 15 May, Cheetahs v Lions has been moved from Kimberley to Vodacom Park, Bloemfontein.

Click here for an updated draw.

BAY TEAM THRILLS HOME CROWD AT SEVENS TOURNAMENT

Wed, 27 Jan 2010 09:20:33 +0100

Media Release - 4 January 2010

Bay of Plenty thrilled the home crowd at the Bay Engineers Supplies/Hose Supplies Rugby Sevens Tournament played at Blake Park Mount Maunganui on Sunday (3 January 2010) with their first tournament victory.

The Bay of Plenty Provincial Sevens, which attracted teams from the length of the North Island, was played out in front of a large crowd at the popular holiday venue.

The deciding game, in what has become the North Island Rugby Sevens championship, was fought out between defending champions Counties Manukau and Bay of Plenty.

The two sides made the final in contrasting circumstances. Counties ran away from Hawkes Bay in their semi-final to post a 31-5 victory, while Bay of Plenty had a good battle with a game Northland before prevailing 14-5.

Counties made the early running in the championship decider to lead 19-14 at the break. A Matt Hodson touchdown soon after the spell put the Bay side in front. While Counties came back with a converted try, the remainder of the second spell belong to the home team, who ran in three further tries to take hold of the trophy 38-26.

Bay skipper Ruki Tipuna led from the front, jinking his way past opposition players throughout the day. Matt Hodson announced his return from injury with two touchdowns, while Sam Cane who is one of the rising Bay stars also dotted down.

Counties player Sherwin Stowers, who topped the days try tally showed his class with two touchdowns in the final, while Siale Piutau and Bundi Aki also dotted down for the runner-up.

The Consolation final was a battle of attrition between Waikato and Wellington. The Waikato side posted their first try late in the first half - and then scored a second in the second spell to grind out a 10 nil victory.

The icing on the cake for the Bay of Plenty supporters was provided when the Bay of Plenty Invitation team took out the Plate final 34-28 against Taranaki.

2010 BOP Provincial Sevens Results
Bay of Plenty 38 (Matt Hodson 2, Scott Curry, Ruki Tipuna, Zion Nordstrom, Sam Cane tries; Tipuna 4con) Counties-Manukau 26 (Sherwin Stowers 2, Siale Piutau, Bundi Aki tries; Stowers 2con, Kaino Kaino con). HT: 14-19.

Semi-Finals: Bop 14 Northland 5; Counties Manukau 31 Hawkes Bay 5.
Consolation Final: Waikato 10 Wellington 0.
Plate Final: BOP Invitation 34 Taranaki 28.

For further information contact:
Mike Rogers BOPRU Operations Manager
07 927 1316 029 478 4292

SIGNING OF 2009 ALL BLACK LELIA MASAGA FOR 2010 & 2011

Mon, 25 Jan 2010 12:05:46 +0100

Media Release - 23 December 2009

The Bay of Plenty Rugby Union is pleased to announce the signing of 2009 All Black Lelia Masaga for 2010 and 2011.

Masaga, (23) made his All Blacks debut vs. Italy at Christchurch during the 2009 IVECO series.

Masaga has been a member of the Chiefs team since 2006 and has played 42 Super Rugby games. A great finisher, winger Masaga returns for his fifth Chiefs season in 2010.

Masaga stated “I am very excited about being involved with the Steamers. They are an exciting team and have a great environment that I am really looking forward to being a part of”.

Bay of Plenty Rugby Union CEO Jeremy Curragh said “We are delighted to have signed a player of Lelia’s quality. To attract a player of Lelia’s caliber is fantastic and proves that the Bay can provide the right environment for players to make the All Blacks. We look forward to supporting Lelia in achieving his goal of again making the All Blacks”.

Masaga has scored 21 tries for the Chiefs and is now an experienced campaigner who brings flair and a deceptive turn of pace.

“Lelia is an excitement machine and brings the x-factor that we are sure our supporters will love to see. Not only is he going to make a strong contribution on the field, he has all the key characteristics that are so important to us off the field as we continue our work in the schools and community ” Curragh stated.

Masga will join the Union after the completion of his duties with the Chiefs.

For further information contact:

Jeremy Curragh
Chief Executive Officer
027 2555521

Sean Horan
Steamers Head Coach
029 201 4240

2009 STEINLAGER RUGBY AWARDS WINNERS ANNOUNCED

Thu, 21 Jan 2010 12:38:09 +0100

MEDIA RELEASE -18 December 2009

Outstanding leadership in the New Zealand game was highlighted by six captains being among the winners at this year’s Steinlager Rugby Awards, New Zealand’s premier rugby awards.

All Blacks Captain Richie McCaw becomes the first person to be named the Kelvin R. Tremain Memorial Player of the Year for a third time, having previously won the award in 2003 and 2006. This accolade follows his recent naming as the 2009 International Rugby Board (IRB) Player of the Year, making him the first person to win the IRB Award twice (previously awarded in 2006).

Mils Muliaina, who deputised for McCaw in his early season absence and also led the Chiefs, won the Rebel Sport Super 14 Player of the Year.

Victoria Heighway, Captain of the Auckland Storm and the Black Ferns for their tour to England, was named the NZRU Women’s Player of the Year; Manawatu’s New Zealand Under 20 Captain Aaron Cruden picked up the NZRU Age Grade Player of the Year; while Zar Lawrence who filled in as the New Zealand Sevens Captain won the Richard Crawshaw Memorial Sevens Player of the Year.

The Steinlager Salver, a special presentation to a person who has made an outstanding contribution to New Zealand rugby, was presented to former All Blacks Captain DJ Graham.

After debuting in 1958 Graham played 53 matches in the black jersey, including 22 tests, and after retiring went on to an outstanding administrative career, serving as the Auckland Rugby Union’s President as well as NZRU Vice President and President.

The Tom French Memorial Maori Player of the Year Award went to exciting wonder wing Zac Guildford; Bryce Lawrence made it two in a row with the NZRU Referee of the Year; and Otago’s Blair Crawford became the inaugural winner of the re-named Charles Monro Rugby Volunteer of the Year Award for his services to community rugby.

The achievement of winning back-to-back titles was recognised by Canterbury being awarded the adidas Team of the Year for their Air New Zealand Cup triumph and Dave Rennie being named as New Zealand Rugby Coach of the Year after leading his young charges to a second IRB Junior World Championship.

Domestically, new All Blacks and Bay of Plenty pivot Mike Delany won the Air New Zealand Cup Player of the Year after an outstanding season and the Heartland Championship Player of the Year Award went to Asaeli Tikoirotuma from Meads Cup champions Wanganui.

The judges for the 2009 Steinlager Rugby Awards were former All Blacks captain and former NZRU President Andy Leslie, NZRU Board member and former All Blacks captain Graham Mourie, SKY Sport rugby commentator Grant Nisbett and former All Black and current NZRU General Manager Community and Provincial Union Rugby Brent Anderson.

The full list of winners at the 2009 Steinlager Rugby Awards is as follows:

NZRU Age Grade Player of the Year

Aaron Cruden (Manawatu)

Richard Crawshaw Memorial Sevens Player of the Year

Zar Lawrence (Bay of Plenty)

NZRU Referee of the Year

Bryce Lawrence (Bay of Plenty)

NZRU Women’s Player of the Year

Victoria Heighway (Auckland)

Charles Monro Rugby Volunteer of the Year

Blair Crawford (Otago)

Rebel Sport Super 14 Player of the Year

Malili (Mils) Muliaina (Chiefs)

Tom French Memorial Maori Player of the Year

Zac Guildford (Hawke’s Bay)

Heartland Championship Player of the Year

Asaeli Tikoirotuma (Wanganui)

Air New Zealand Cup Player of the Year

Mike Delany (Bay of Plenty)

adidas Team of the Year

Canterbury

New Zealand Rugby Coach of the Year

Dave Rennie (New Zealand Under 20, Manawatu)

Steinlager Salver for an Outstanding Contribution to New Zealand Rugby

DJ Graham

Kelvin R. Tremain Memorial Player of the Year

Richie McCaw

**********

Note to media: High resolution photos of the 2009 Steinlager Rugby Awards will be available for download free of charge.

Simply go to www.gettyimages.com/publicity enter Steinlager Rugby in the search box and tick ‘editorial images’.

You will need to register an account if not already a user. There is no cost to do this.

For further information contact:

Juli Clausen

NZRU Media Manager

M: 0275 70 70 45

E: juli.clausen@nzrugby.co.nz

NZRU BOARD DECIDES ON DOMESTIC COMPETITIONS

Tue, 15 Dec 2009 12:15:55 +0100

MEDIA RELEASE -11 December 2009

The New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRU) Board has decided to maintain the current 14-team premier competition and 12-team Heartland Championship in the same formats as the 2009 season for 2010.

Competition formats and other key matters remain subject to the collective bargaining process currently underway with the New Zealand Rugby Players’ Association and, as a result, the NZRU Board has accepted the need to give Provincial Unions, their players, sponsors and fans some certainty as to their playing future next year. The fact that several Provincial Unions had lodged appeals and threatened other legal action which had the potential to delay the confirmation of competition formats for 2010 was also a factor in the Board’s deliberations.

The decision was based on a recommendation from NZRU Management to maintain the status quo for 2010 and follows several months of consultation, research and negotiations on the mechanisms required to make the new competition format viable.

NZRU Chairman Jock Hobbs said the Board and Management agreed that despite the significant amount of progress that had been made to identify and develop the 10-6-10 competition, the current collective employment negotiations taking place and other factors meant the proposed competition could not go ahead in 2010.

“A number of factors have changed since the Board made its decisions in June and July. These include the fact that competition formats have become a fundamental part of the collective employment negotiations currently underway, the fact that we have appeals lodged by the Tasman and Counties-Manukau Rugby Unions and threatened legal action from other Unions. All of these matters were not likely to be resolved prior to the first quarter of 2010, and with outcomes uncertain and the need to create certainty for Provincial Unions and teams, it was not possible to go ahead with the new format in 2010.”

A number of Provincial Unions had also made submissions to the NZRU which, in some cases, indicated a change in their position on the proposed changes or at least the timing of those changes, he said.

The Board’s previous decision on the format of the domestic competitions in 2011 and 2012 remains as a 10-6-10 format at this time. This will be subject to continued negotiations with the NZRPA and the NZRU will be seeking to secure an affordable and sustainable player payment model and salary cap as key outcomes of collective bargaining. The format will also be discussed further with Provincial Unions.

In announcing the decision, Mr Hobbs and NZRU CEO Steve Tew noted that the initial impetus for changes to domestic competitions came from the nine non-Franchise Host Provincial Unions which collectively requested urgent intervention from the NZRU in April.

Mr Tew said the NZRU was focused on finalising a new collective employment agreement with the NZRPA, which will be critical to determining the costs for Provincial Unions and competitions in the next three years.

“Like all those involved in rugby, we have been greatly encouraged by the public’s reaction to the Air New Zealand Cup in 2009. The strong growth in television audiences and the visibility of the competition were hugely positive. Together with our Provincial Unions we now need to figure out how we can harness that interest and support in 2010 and beyond to sustain those teams and these vital competitions over the longer term,” Mr Tew said.

A meeting of all 14 Premier Division Provincial Unions CEOs and the CEOs of Wanganui and Mid-Canterbury was held in Wellington today to further discuss these issues.

*****

For further information contact:

Brian Finn

NZRU Communications Manager

P: 04 494 0765

M: 027 229 5380

E: brian.finn@nzrugby.co.nz

Juli Clausen

NZRU Media Manger

M: 027 570 7045

E: juli.clausen@nzrugby.co.nz

2009 STEINLAGER RUGBY AWARD NOMINEES ANNOUNCED

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 12:41:45 +0100

MEDIA RELEASE - 20 November 2009

The nominees for this year’s Steinlager Rugby Awards, New Zealand’s premier rugby awards, have been announced.

The Steinlager Rugby Awards recognise and acknowledge the achievements of New Zealand’s teams, coaches, players, referees and volunteers in 2009. The ceremony will be held at the SkyCity Convention Centre, Auckland, on Thursday 17 December and broadcast live on SKY Sport and The Rugby Channel.

Click here to read full article

SAVE OUR NPC - ALL BLACKS QUESTIONNAIRE

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 12:15:32 +0100

‘Mexted – You’re not alone!’

All Blacks vote for 14 teams
97% in survey don’t want a 10-team competition
Call for a special general meeting of NZRU

Murray Mexted is far from alone among All Blacks in his championing of the NPC remaining as a 14-team competition.

Mexted - who played 72 matches for the All Blacks and has spent 17 years as a rugby commentator - reportedly ran foul of his bosses at SKY TV for his decision to speak out against the NZRU decision to cull the competition to 10 teams for next year.

But a survey of former All Blacks has found that 97% also favour the retention of 14 provinces in the championship.

The respondents include many icons of All Black rugby.

Here’s what some of the All Blacks said:

Click here to download full list of comments

Do you think the 14-team Air New Zealand Cup competition should be reduced to 10 teams?

Sir Colin Meads (1957-71 All Black, 133 matches, King Country): No. The NZRU has got to leave it as is. They’ve given the smaller provinces three or four years to get it right. This year those teams were knocking over the big fellows. They’re up to speed and now they’re going to be sacked. It’s wrong!

Ian Kirkpatrick (1967-77 All Black, 113 matches, Canterbury and Poverty Bay-East Coast): No. I favour the retention of the 14 teams. If they don’t want to continue in the future, they would put their hand up

Sam Strahan (1967,68,69,70,72,73 All Black, 45 matches, Manawatu): No. Relegation would destroy interest in the game locally.

Murray Mexted (1979-85 All Black, 72 matches, Wellington): No! Rugby provincialism is the heart of rugby in New Zealand. Reducing it by one-third is very short-sighted!

Richie Guy (1971,72 All Black, 9 matches, North Auckland; former chairman NZRFU Council and NZRFU Board who oversaw move to professionalism in 1996): No. If ‘4 million people’ are to continue at the top of world rugby we cannot place people on the scrapheap.

Laurie Mains (1971,76 All Black, 15 matches, Otago): No. All teams have made great contributions this year. New Zealand rugby needs wide base of top competition to stay strong. Unions need to unite and stand up to the NZRU – even if they have loans from the NZRU.

Jeff Matheson (1972 All Black, 13 matches, Otago): No. Super 14/15 should be reduced, not the NPC. I understand the All Black coaches (3) and the CEO of the NZRU earn over $4 million between them. If true, this is absolute madness!

Grahame Thorne (1967-70 All Black, 39 matches, Auckland): No. Mr Tew’s thoughts are warped! Okay, the money’s important. But so is rugby!

Ian MacRae (1963,64,66-70 All Black, 45 matches, Hawke’s Bay): No. The NPC provides the strength in numbers for professional rugby.

The NZRU is due to announce a decision on the controversial subject on or about December 12. The Questionnaire was mailed to 250 former All Blacks. It was not sent to ‘present’ All Blacks. The deadline for the survey was Thursday, November 12, 2009.

The replies were 97% in favour of RETAINING the 14-team Air New Zealand Cup competition. A huge majority want a SPECIAL GENERAL MEETING before any NZRU decision to change the format and most do not want the subject then revisited by the NZRU until AFTER the World Cup.

I decided to do the survey because ‘time was running out’ concerning the NZRU decision on the NPC. I believed it was the most momentous decision to be made in 140 years of provincial rivalry. I also had the means to do so - addresses of almost all the former All Blacks from contact for the historical limited edition books (with original signatures) I have written, esp The Immortals in 2005.

Sir Colin Meads will be pleased to take media enquiries on the survey and why he supports the retention of 14 teams (ph (07) 878-7603.

Yours etc

Paul Verdon

Paul Verdon’s book titles have been: The Power Behind the All Blacks, the Untold Story of the All Black Coaches; Born to Lead, the Untold Story of the All Black Captains; The Hartbreak Years; Tribute, Ranking the Greatest All Blacks of All Time; Heritage, the Golden Years of All Black Rugby; The Immortals, The Book of All Black Test Players; Olympic Legends, The Book of New Zealand’s Olympic Medallists; The Immortals, The Book of New Zealand Cricket Test Players; Legends of World Rugby, A Book of the World’s Great Players from the Amateur Era; Kings of Rugby, The 1959 Lions’ Tour & Series and the Lives Beyond.

Verdon has worked as a journalist for major newspapers such as The Press, the Christchurch Star, the Dominion, the New Zealand Herald, the Sunday Star-Times and the National Business Review.

STEAMERS SIGN OFF AIR NEW ZEALAND CUP SEASON WITH A LOSS

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 11:42:04 +0100

Media Release - 26 October 2009

In spite of scoring four first half tries, the Bay of Plenty Steamers posted a loss in their last Air New Zealand Cup game of the season, against Taranaki on Sunday (25 October 2009) afternoon.

The first half belonged to the Steamers, who ran in four tries to lead 24-6 at Baypark Stadium. The first touchdown was a 70 metre run by Jason Hona, who grabbed the ball and took off to score. John Moore will never forget the Taranki encounter when he grabbed the second Steamers touchdown (and his first Air New Zealand Cup try) after a run by Zac Hohneck

Zar Lawrence ran in the third Steamers touchdown, with Jason Hona grabbing his second try just before the break.

A refocused Taranki team made their intentions clear immediately after the second half had commenced. Two tries in the first six minutes narrowed the Steamers lead to just four points, before a further visitors penalty made it a one-point ball game.

While the Steamers made several of attacking moves, they came to nothing as the Taranaki defence held firm. With the clock ticking down Taranaki missed a penalty attempt - before further pressure resulted in their third converted try to lead 30-24.

A final Steamers charge on the line in the dying seconds of the match, resulted in the referee saying that the ball was held up - with the match finishing with a six point victory to the visitors.

While the Steamers had a grand first spell – they simply had no answers to the fired up Taranaki side, who scored 24 unanswered points in the second half.

However the Steamers signed off their season with seven victories, and a solid seventh place in the fourteen team Air New Zealand Cup competition. In a season where the Steamers punched above their weight throughout the Air New Zealand Cup, a top half finish was a good result.

Result

Taranaki 30 BOP Steamers (Jason Hona 2, John Moore, Zar Lawrence tries; Colin Bourke 2 con)

For further information contact:
Paul Feeney Steamers Manager
07 574 2037 029 478 4296

STEAMERS UPDATE 19 OCTOBER

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 11:31:28 +0100

Media Release 19 October 2009

The Steamers last match of the 2009 Air New Zealand Cup, will be played before a large crowd of the teams passionate supporters, this Sunday (25 October 2009). Nothing less than a victory against Taranaki, will suffice to finish the season on a high note for both players and fans alike.

Steamers Program (20 - 25 October)

Tuesday (20th) Gym Work
School Visits – Kawerau, Te Teko, Opotiki
Wednesday (21st) Training @ Baypark – 9.30-11am
Thursday (22nd) Scheduled day off
Friday (23rd) Training @ Baypark 9.30-11am
School Visits – Te Puna, Katikati then out and about with promo’s in Tauranga
Saturday (24th) Captains run @ Baypark – 10-11am
Sunday (25th) Steamers v Taranaki, Baypark Stadium – kickoff 2.35pm

Air New Zealand Cup Information

Bay of Plenty v Taranaki (1925 – 2007)
Played 35
Taranaki 19 BOP 16
Last Match (2007) Taranaki 36 BOP 19

2009 Leading Points Scorers: Mike Delany (Bay of Plenty) 149, M Berquist (Hawkes Bay) 144, L Munro (Northland) 131

Player Profile

Each week the Steamers Update will profile one of the 2009 Steamers. This week we chat with Toby Arnold who is one of the rising young stars in the Steamers team.
Toby Arnold
Age: 22 years
Height: 1.79k
Weight: 82kg
Birthplace: Otorohanga College
Biggest Rugby Achievement: Making the Steamers
Favourite Player: Steven Wallace (Mount Maunganui)
Biggest Influence on Career: Parents
Team I Love Beating: Mount
Favourite Ground: Island Reserve (Otorohanga)
The One Thing I Can’t Live Without: KFC
Best Advise My Mum Gave Me: Do what you want to do
Favourite Country: King Country
Worst Job I Have Had: Delivering pamphlets
Four People I Would Invite To A BBQ: Peter Griffin, Homer Simpson, Will Farrell, Colonel Sanders
For further information contact:
Paul Feeney Steamers Manager
07 574 2037 029 478 4296

STEAMERS SNEAK A WIN IN PALMERSTON NORTH

Mon, 19 Oct 2009 09:08:44 +0100

Media Release - 16 October 2009

The Bay of Plenty Steamers grabbed the narrowest of victories against Manawatu in Palmerston North on Friday (16 October 2009) evening. A late try to the home side with two minutes on the clock wasn’t enough, as the Steamers held on to grab a 28-27 win on the road.

A Mike Delany penalty opened the scoring in the Air New Zealand match, with a further penalty apiece, seeing the Steamers leading 6-3 after twenty minutes. Luke Braid finished off a Steamers move to dot down, with the Delany conversion extending the lead,

Four minutes before the break Manawatu grabbed a converted try which resulted in the Steamers taking a narrow 13-10 lead into the half time break.

Minutes into the second half, a Steamers attack led to Phil Burleigh kicking ahead to regain the ball, and touch down for the five pointer. After solid pressure Manawatu scored a converted try to cut the Steamers lead to one point.

At the halfway stage in the second spell, a kick and chase from deep in the Steamers territory, led to Jason Hona scoring his sides third try of the encounter. A Delany penalty pushed the visitors advantage out to eleven, before a Manawatu penalty cut their defect to eight.

Desperate attacking from Manawatu resulted in a converted try, with just two minutes on the clock. The Steamers then held on to grab a pencil thin one-point victory – and a rare victory on the road.

The Steamers victory was built upon taking their chances, and as they have done all season - rock solid defence. Big prop Ted Tauroa who started the match after having previously occupied the reserves bench, made a real impact until subbed off.

However as has happened all season skipper Colin Bourke, and mercurial first five Mike Delany led the playmaking.

The victory was the first step in the Steamers finishing the season with a flourish, after three successive defeats. Next week the Steamers will be back at Baypark in front on their passionate supporters, with nothing less than a win over Taranaki, pleasing the Blue and Gold fans.

Result
BOP Steamers 28 (Luke Braid, Phil Burleigh, Jason Hona tries; Mike Delany 3 pens 2 cons) Manawatu 27 (R Robinson, B Thompson, S O’Connor tries; I Thompson 2 pens 3 cons)

For further information contact:
Paul Feeney Steamers Manager

STEAMERS VS MANAWATU

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 10:14:00 +0100

Media Release 14 October 2009

STEAMERS ON A MISSION IN PALMERSTON NORTH

The Steamers mission this Friday (16 October 2009) night in Palmerston North, is to move up the leader board in the Air New Zealand Cup - so as they can push on to finish their season with a flourish, at Bay Park against Taranaki the following weekend.

While the Steamers have had a tough time in the last three weeks tasting defeat, the team assignment for the last two weeks of the Air New Zealand Cup is simply to post two wins.

Standing in their way of finishing the season on a high note is Manawatu, who are the Steamers opponents this Friday evening, at FMG Stadium Palmerston North.

Steamer Assistant Coach Steve Miln said “the key to defeating Manawatu is to execute our game plan, and play our game and not let the opposition dictate play”. “Playing with the pride and passion of wearing the blue and gold uniform is another crucial ingredient in grabbing success in Palmerston North”.

The return of Like Braid to the Steamers sets up one of the most potent loose forward units in the Air New Zealand Cup. Braid along with current All Black Tanerau Latimer and skipper Colin Bourke hunt in a pack, and should provide plenty of misery for the Manawatu team.

As usual the backline will take will be directed by Mike Delany who has had a sterling season. The Steamers kicking machine leads the Air New Zealand Cup points tally with 136 points for the season.

Ted Tauroa will start as tighthead prop due to a injury to James McGougan - with Bay Development team member Daniel Schuster coming into the side as cover for the front row. Another fresh face on the bench is Clinton Toopi, who has worked hard to return from injury to make the Air New Zealand Cup team for the first time.

17 October 2009 @ FMG Stadium, Palmerston North – 7.35pm
BOP Steamers v Manawatu
Toby Arnold, Zar Lawrence, Nigel Hunt, Phil Burleigh, Jason Hona, Mike Delany, Junior Poluleuligaga, Colin Bourke (captain) Tanerau Latimer, Luke Braid, Culum Retallick, Mark Burman, Ted Tauroa, John Pareanga, Joe Savage.
Reserves: Dean Elmiger, Daniel Schuster, Josh Olsen, Zac Hohneck, Josh Hall, Wayne Hewson, Clinton Toopi.

Head Coach: Sean Horan Assistant Coach: Steve Miln Manager: Paul Feeney

For further information contact:
Paul Feeney Steamers Manager
07 574 2037 029 478 4296

STEAMERS MUST WIN AT NORTH HARBOUR STADIUM

Thu, 08 Oct 2009 10:58:41 +0100

Media Release - 8 October 2009

The Bay of Plenty Steamers face the most important challenge of their 2009 Air New Zealand Cup campaign, when they run out on to North Harbour Stadium on Saturday (10 October 2009) evening.

There will be plenty of urgency for a Steamers victory against North Harbour. With just three rounds remaining before the semi-finals, nothing less than a Bay of Plenty win will keep the Steamers on track for a semi-final berth.

Steamers assistant coach Steve Miln said “this is a must win game, with the Steamers needing to emerge victorious in each of the next three weeks, in order to cement a semi-final place”. “We need to play our game which should control the outcome”.

“Last weeks loss to Hawkes Bay has made the side more determined than ever to make the semi-finals” said Miln.

The scenario is that two wins on the road against North Harbour and Manawatu will bring the largest crowd of the season to Baypark on Sunday 25th October 2009, for the Steamers last game of the regular season against Taranaki – in what could be a semi-final decider.

One of the strengths of the Steamers this season has been the consistency of team selection. This weekend an unchanged starting fifteen from last weeks side that met Hawkes Bay, will run on to North Harbour Stadium.

For the second week in a row the Steamers All Black Tanerau Latimer will play. The extremely talented flanker, forms a dynamic trio with skipper Colin Bourke, and young gun Zac Hohneck.

Once again Mike Delany will be one of the keys to a Steamers victory. His tactical kicking has been superb all season, with the success of his shots at goal taking him to the top of The Air New Zealand Cup individual points tally.

10 October 2009 @ North Harbour Stadium – 7.35pm

Bay of Plenty v North Harbour
Toby Arnold, Ben Smith, Nigel Hunt, Phil Burleigh, Jason Hona, Mike Delany, Junior Poluleuligaga, Colin Bourke (captain) Tanerau Latimer, Zac Hohneck, Culum Retallick, John Moore, James McGougan, John Pareanga, Joe Savage.
Reserves: Dean Elmiger, Ted Tauroa, Mark Burman, Matt Henwood, Josh Hall, Cory Aporo, Zar Lawrence.

Head Coach: Sean Horan Assistant Coach: Steve Miln Manager: Paul Feeney

For further information contact:
Paul Feeney Steamers Manager
07 574 2037 029 478 4296

STEAMERS UPDATE 12 OCTOBER

Tue, 06 Oct 2009 08:35:20 +0100

Media Release 12 October 2009

Although the Steamers have slipped down the Air New Zealand Cup point’s table, they are only a few of points off fourth place. Victory in next Fridays match-up with Manawatu in Palmerston North is vital to finishing the season on a high note.

While the Steamers hold a six game win advantage since the two sides first met in 1951 – the last game between the two teams resulted in a 30-18 victory to Manawatu in 2007.

Steamers Program (13 - 16 October)

Tuesday (13th) Scheduled day off
Wednesday (14th) Training at Baypark 10.30 – 12pm
School Visits pm – Mount Maunganui College, Bethlehem College, Te Puke HS
Thursday (15th) Travel to PN – Captains run Taupo
Friday (16th) Steamers v Manawatu, FMG Stadium PN – 7.35pm

Air New Zealand Cup Information

Bay of Plenty v Manawatu (1951 – 2007)
Played 26
BOP 15 Manawatu 9 Drawn 2
Last Match: Manawatu 30 BOP 18 (2007)

2009 Leading Points Scorers: Mike Delany (Bay of Plenty) 136, M Berquist (Hawkes Bay) 129, L Munro (Northland) 119

Player Profile

Each week the Steamers Update will profile one of the 2009 Steamers. This week we chat with the Steamers current All Black Tanerau Latimer.
Tanerau Latimer
Age: 23 years
Height: 1.83
Weight: 100kg
Birthplace: Te Puke
Hobbies: Fishing
Biggest Rugby Achievement: Playing first game for the Bay/Making the All Blacks
Favourite Player: Lance MacDonald
The One Thing I Can’t Live Without: My boat
Best Advise My Mum Gave Me: Work hard
Favourite Food: Japanese
Favourite Musician: Bob Marley
Favourite Book: Fishing News
Favourite Country: Dubai
Worst Job I Have Had: Kiwifruit picking
If I Was Prime Minister I Would: Cut taxes

For further information contact:
Paul Feeney Steamers Manager
07 574 2037 029 478 4296

BAY OF PLENTY'S NEW ZEALAND SECONDARY SCHOOL PLAYERS IN ACTION!

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 16:19:52 +0100

Sam Cane and Carl Axtens

Sam Cane

Papa Wharewera, Sam Cane and Carl Axtens

Captain of New Zealand Secondary School Team Carl Axtens

THE BEARD IS BACK! Support for a good cause!

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 14:58:50 +0100

See the fur flying in the Air New Zealand Cup

Media Release 30 September 2009

If you think things are getting hairy in the Air New Zealand Cup it’s probably because a host of New Zealand’s top rugby players have brought out the face furniture in support of a new campaign called ‘Beards for Blood.’

Provincial stars up and down the country have agreed to let the whiskers grow until the end of the season to raise awareness for the New Zealand Blood Service and raise much-needed funds for the Leukaemia and Blood Foundation’s Shave for a Cure initiative.

The campaign was inspired by the giant ginger beard sported by North Harbour fullback Jack McPhee and has quickly spread throughout the country as one by one the nation’s premier provincial teams have jumped on board.

McPhee (whose North Harbour team already has an association with the NZ Blood Service) agreed with Sky Sport’s rugby presenter Scotty ‘Sumo’ Stevenson to shave his beard for charity at the end of the season and that provided the genesis to take the concept around the country.

“We can all save lives simply by donating blood,” says Jack. “Much of that blood is used to treat leukaemia and other blood cancers too, so this is a campaign that can help thousands of New Zealanders.”

“New donors are always needed,” says Paul Hayes Marketing Manager, New Zealand Blood Service.

“We are absolutely stoked that so many players are getting behind this important community event and we trust that many in the rugby community come forward and become regular donors.”

Pru Etcheverry, the Leukaemia and Blood Foundation Executive Director, says “we are committed to improving the quality of life for patients and their families living with leukaemia or related blood cancer or condition.”

“This level of support from New Zealand’s top rugby teams is an incredible gift. It is due to the generous spirit of people like these players that we are able to continue our patient support services.”

With McPhee a definite starter, it was only a matter of time before plenty of others jumped at the chance to itch their way through the remainder of the Air New Zealand Cup season.

Impressively, both the Northland Taniwha and Manawatu Turbos decided that if they were going to participate, it would be as an entire team – including coaches and management – and that has led to plenty of manscaping and few complaints from the wives and girlfriends!

Selected players from North Harbour, Auckland, Bay of Plenty, Taranaki, Wellington, Canterbury and Otago have also committed to the cause.

Scotty Stevenson says the support from around the teams has been sensational and it proves just how community-minded our top rugby players are!

“The gesture these guys are making is absolutely outstanding and it shows again just how passionate they are about doing right by their fans both on and off the field,” he says.

The Beards for Blood campaign will continue through until the last week of the Air New Zealand Cup regular season at which stage fans will be able to turn out to see the faces trimmed up and returned to normal.

Dates and venues for the big shave up will be confirmed in the coming week.

In the meantime fans can support their team by visiting www.shaveforacure.co.nz and clicking on the Beards for Blood link. They can also see regular updates on all the progress during Sky Sport’s comprehensive rugby coverage.

For More Contact:

Paul Hayes
Marketing Manager
NZ Blood
Paul.hayes@nzblood.co.nz
027 565 0556

Leola Abraham
Communications & Media Relations Manager
Leukaemia and Blood Foundation
leola@leukaemia.org.nz
09 638 3556

Scotty Stevenson
Sky Sport
sstevenson@skysport.co.nz
021 444 500

Quick Facts:

Beards for Blood
The Beards for Blood campaign is designed to raise awareness of the NZ Blood Service and to raise funds for the NZ Leukaemia and Blood Foundation’s Shave for a Cure initiative.

The campaign grew from a conversation between Sky Sport’s Scotty Stevenson and North Harbour fullback Jack McPhee, who agreed to shave his giant red beard for charity.

The campaign has grown to involve Air New Zealand Cup players across the country, all of whom have agreed to grow their beards until the end of the season.

Dates and venues for the big shave up will be confirmed in the coming week.

Each of the participating teams has their own web page where people can make comments and donate to the cause – find your team’s at www.shaveforacure.co.nz

Why are we supporting the NZ Blood Service?

Every week the NZ Blood Service needs 3000 donations.
One donation can save the lives of up to 3 people.
Every year 42,000 New Zealanders require donated blood.
Only 4% of New Zealand’s adult population currently donates blood.
It takes just 10 minutes to collect a blood donation.

Why are we also supporting the NZ Leukaemia and Blood Foundation?

Every day six New Zealand children and adults are diagnosed with leukaemia, lymphoma, myeloma or a related blood cancer or condition; the equivalent of around 2,200 New Zealanders a year.
Many of those diagnosed are young children.
About 20% of all donated blood in New Zealand is used in the treatment of cancers.
The Leukaemia and Blood foundation runs the shave for a cure campaign and this sits well with what we are trying to achieve.

STEAMERS UPDATE - 28 SEPTEMBER

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 11:43:22 +0100

Media Release 28 September 2009

The Steamers will be looking forward to their Friday (2 October 2009) Air New Zealand Cup encounter with Hawkes Bay for several reasons. Since 1922 when the two sides met for the first time a real rivalry has developed.

Revenge will certainly be on the Steamers agenda after last year’s heavy defeat – and the 2009 pre-season loss. With both teams in the Air New Zealand Cup top four, the winner from this weeks game in Rotorua will significantly enhance their chances of a semi-final spot.

Steamers Program (29 Sept – 2 October 2009)

Thursday (1st) Captains run
Friday (2nd) Steamers v Hawkes Bay, Rotorua International Stadium – 7.35pm

Air New Zealand Cup Information

Bay of Plenty v Hawkes Bay (1922 – 2008)
Played 38
BOP 23 Hawkes Bay 14 Drawn 1
Last Match: Hawkes Bay 46 BOP 12 (2008)

2009 Leading Points Scorers: Mike Delany (Bay of Plenty) 116, L Munro (Northland) 106, C Bruce (Waikato) 104.

Player Profile

Each week the Steamers Update will profile one of the 2009 Steamers. This week we chat to Junior Poluleuligaga who is the pivot behind the Steamers pack.
Junior Poluleuligaga
Age: 28 years
Height: 1.83m
Weight: 94kg
Favourite Player: Joost Van der Westheizen
Coach I Most Respect: Tama Umaga
Biggest Influence On Career: Father
Biggest Rugby Achievement: Manu Samoa World Cup 2007
Team I Love Beating: Auckland
Favourite Ground: Millennium Stadium, Cardiff
The One Thing I Can’t Live Without: Mobile phone
Hobbies: Poker
Best Advice My Mum Gave Me: Go to church
Four People I Would Invite to a BBQ: My wife, Brad Mika, Eddie Murphy, Halle Berry.

For further information contact:
Paul Feeney Steamers Manager
07 574 2037 029 478 4296

STEAMERS FACE TOUGH FIGHT AT CARISBROOK ON SATURDAY EVENING

Thu, 24 Sep 2009 16:52:52 +0100

Media Release - 24 September 2009

While the Bay of Plenty Steamers sit nine places ahead of this Saturdays (26 September 2009) opponents Otago, on the Air New Zealand Cup point’s ladder – they are expecting a tough fight at “the Brook”.

While the Otago side have mustered just two victories this season – testament to their resolve, is the six bonus points that they have picked up. An added challenge for the Steamers is to play at Carisbrook in Dunedin, where teams must fight all the way to take home points from the southern team.

However third place on the Air New Zealand Cup ledger and six victories, tell the tale of a team that has a multitude of courage. Much of the success this season can be attributed to stable team selection made by Head Coach Sean Horan and Assistant Coach Steve Miln.

Head Coach Sean Horan said “ our core base of players have been relatively injury free all season, and coupled with a grand team spirit, there is incredible unity displayed by the Steamers”. “ While there is total concentration, on the field there is plenty of laughter and comradeship after the game”.

“We are expecting a torrid encounter against Otago, as they will want to post a victory at home to move up the points table”. “Steamers matches at Carisbrook are always torrid affairs with this weekends game likely to be little different” said Sean.

An unchanged backline from last weekends win against Tasman; will take to Carisbrook on Saturday night. A significant change on the reserve bench sees quality outside back Ben Smith return to the team.

The only change in the starting forward pack comes with Mark Burman swapping places on the bench with John Moore. One youngster who has really seized his opportunity this season is loosie Zac Hohneck. While still eligible for the Bay Under 20 team, Hohneck will start for the second successive week.

26 September 2009 @ Carisbrook Dunedin – 7.35pm kickoff
Toby Arnold, Nigel Hunt, Wayne Hughson, Phil Burleigh, Jason Hona, Mike Delany, Junior Poluleuligaga, Colin Bourke (captain) Luke Braid, Zac Hohneck, Culum Retallick, Mark Burman, James McGougan, John Pareanga, Joe Savage.
Reserves: Dean Elmiger, Josh Hohneck, John Moore, Matt Henwood, Ben Smith, Cory Aporo, Zar Lawrence.

Head Coach: Sean Horan Assistant Coach: Steve Miln Manager: Paul Feeney

For further information contact:
Paul Feeney Steamers Manager
07 574 2037 029 478 4296

STEAMERS UPDATE - 21 SEPTEMBER

Mon, 21 Sep 2009 16:15:28 +0100

Media Release 21 - September 2009

With a Thursday game last week, the Steamers were given the opportunity to have four days of R&R, which will recharge their batteries before another long journey south on Friday to Dunedin.

The rivalry with Otago dates back over seventy years with games between the two provinces always keen contests. The Steamers face the added challenge of trying to grab a victory at the “Brook”.

Steamers Program (21 – 26 September 2009)

Tuesday (22nd) Conditioning 11.30am-12.30pm - Training 2-3pm at Baypark
Wednesday (23rd) Gym work
Thursday (24th) Training at Paengaroa 9-10.30am
School visits’ - Kawerau, Ruatoki, Trident HS, Whakatane HS
Friday (25th) Travel to Dunedin – Captains run
Saturday (26th) Steamers v Otago, Carisbrook Dunedin 7-35pm

Air New Zealand Cup Information

Bay of Plenty v Otago (1938 – 2008)
Played 29
Otago 20 BOP 9
Last Match: BOP Steamers 31 Otago 20 (2008)

2009 Leading Points Scorers: Mike Delany (Bay of Plenty) 108, L Munro (Northland) 95, C Bruce (Waikato) 92

Player Profile

Each week the Steamers Update will profile one of the 2009 Steamers. This week we chat to loose forward Zac Hohneck who is another of the Steamers emerging young talent.
Zac Hohneck
Age: 19 years
Height: 1.84m
Weight: 104kg
Education: Western Heights HS, Rotorua
Hobbies: Pig hunting, fishing
Favourite Player: Richie McCaw
Favourite Coach: Steve Axtens
Biggest Influence On Career: Family
Team I Love Beating: Whaka, Auckland
Biggest Rugby Achievement: Becoming a Steamer
Favourite Ground: Rotorua International Stadium
The One Thing I Can’t Live Without: Laughter
Favourite Food: Mums cooking
Favourite Movie: Braveheart

For further information contact:

Paul Feeney Steamers Manager
07 574 2037 029 478 4296

STEAMERS SHOW COURAGE AT BAYPARK

Mon, 21 Sep 2009 09:43:49 +0100

Media Release 17 September 2009

The Bay of Plenty Steamers showed that they have courage in spades when they defeated Tasman 24-13 at Baypark Mount Maunganui, on Thursday (17 September 2009) evening.

In spite of the statistics telling a tale of the home team having less possession than Tasman, the Steamers Air New Zealand Cup victory, was built upon go forward at every opportunity and a rock solid defence.

While the momentum of the game ebbed and flowed in the opening spell, the Steamers opened the scoring after fifteen minutes. With the Steamers on attack, lock Culum Retallick handed the ball to Phil Burleigh, who grabbed his side’s first touch down. The Mike Delany conversion brought up the accomplished kickers one hundred points for the season.

A penalty goal for Tasman got them back in the match, with a converted try to the visitors seeing them take a 10-7 lead into the break.

A Delany penalty early in the second half saw the Steamers draw even. While Tasman made plenty of attacking charges the Steamers defence never faltered, before Junior Poluleugaga put the home team back in front. The Steamers second try came from a forward attack with the halfback diving over for the touchdown.

As they have done all season, the Steamers upped the ante in the last quarter to put real pressure on Tasman. A second Tasman penalty got their side within four points - before inspirational Steamers skipper Colin Bourke charged down the ball, to give his side their third try of the match.

The successful Delany conversion saw the Steamers post a 24-13 win, and preserve their unbeaten home record. The side’s sixth win of the season returned the side (briefly) to the top of the Air New Zealand Cup point’s table.

While another large home crowd were on hand to cheer their hero’s home – the victory was built upon the Steamers again playing with real pride and passion. The team’s unity, where they play for and support each other, is the major foundation that the 2009 Steamers are built upon.

Result

BOP Steamers 24 (Phil Burleigh, Junior Poluleugaga, Colin Bourke tries; Mike Delany 3 cons pen) Tasman 13 (A Ainley try; A Goodman 2 pens con)

For further information contact:
Paul Feeney Steamers Manager
07 574 2037 029 478 4296

STEAMERS TO FACE TASMAN AT BAYPARK

Wed, 16 Sep 2009 12:37:25 +0100

Media Release 15 September 2009

The intensity of the Steamers Air New Zealand Cup campaign has stepped up another notch, with just six days between the Southland game, and this Thursday (17 September 2009) nights encounter with Tasman.

The thirteen rounds in this years Air New Zealand Cup, has turned the championship into a staying contest, rather than a sprint to the quarterfinals of recent years. The teams that will push on from the half way stage, to be in contention for semi-finals berth, will be the sides that have all their key players available.

While there are four changes to the Steamers starting fifteen to face Tasman, the return of a key performer in the forward pack, will provide a rock solid front row. Loosehead prop Joe Savage who was injured in the first game of the regular season, will reunite with John Pareanga and James McGougan.

A second change in the forwards will see a young talent start in the number six jersey. Zac Hohneck who is still eligible for the Bay Under 20 team, will form an attack trio with skipper Colin Bourke and Luke Braid.

In the backline Wayne Hughson has made the starting fifteen for the first time this season, with Toby Arnold replacing an injured Ben Smith at full back.

A huge plus for the Steamers this week, is to again play before their parochial fans at Baypark in Mount Maunganui. Since Baypark became the Western Bay headquarters of the Steamers a few years ago, the team has made the ground a local fortress – with all visiting teams having to fight all the way to secure points against the home side.

Steamers Assistant Coach Steve Miln said “The team always lifts its game at Baypark in front of their passionate supporters”. “”The Bay of Plenty community support that the Steamers have received in the last two years, plays a big part in the team playing with confidence and pride”.

“Playing in front of ten thousand loyal fans provides huge motivation to perform”. “The connection with the young fans, whether signing autographs after the game or making school visits, is an important part of the team culture,” said Miln.

17 September 2009 @ Baypark Mount Maunganui – 7.35pm kickoff

Toby Arnold, Nigel Hunt, Wayne Hughson, Phil Burleigh, Jason Hona, Mike Delany, Junior Poluleuligaga, Colin Bourke (captain) Luke Braid, Zac Hohneck, Culum Retallick, John Moore, James McGougan, John Pareanga, Joe Savage.
Reserves: Dean Elmiger, Josh Hohneck, Mark Burman, Matt Henwood, Josh Hall, Cory Aporo, Zar Lawrence.

Head Coach: Sean Horan Assistant Coach: Steve Miln Manager: Paul Feeney

For further information contact:
Paul Feeney Steamers Manager
07 574 2037 029 478 4296

STEAMERS UPDATE - 14 SEPTEMBER

Tue, 15 Sep 2009 10:40:39 +0100

Media Release 14 September 2009

With another big crowd of parochial Steamers fans expected to be on hand at Baypark in Mount Maunganui - the Steamers won’t lack vocal support, as they endeavour to post another Air New Zealand Cup victory.

Steamers Program (14 - 17 September 2009)

Monday (14th) Conditioning and technical work at Baypark
Tuesday (15th) Training at Baypark 9 – 10.30am
School visits (pm) Fairhaven, Arataki
Wednesday (16th) Captains run at Baypark – 10am
DHB Health promotion at Rangataua Club
Thursday (17th) Steamers v Tasman, Baypark Mount Maunganui – 7.35pm

Air New Zealand Cup Information

Bay of Plenty v Tasman (2006 – 2008)
Played 3
BOP 3 Tasman 0
Last Match: BOP 8 Tasman 7

2009 Leading Points Scorers: Mike Delany (Bay of Plenty) 99, L Munro (Northland) 85, C Bruce (Waikato) 79 D Carter (Canterbury) 76

Player Profile

Each week the Steamers Update will profile one of the 2009 Steamers. This week we chat to halfback Josh Hall, who is one of the younger team members.
Josh Hall
Age: 20 years
Height: 1.78m
Weight: 82kg
Education: Tauranga Boys College
Favourite Player: Toby Arnold
Biggest Influence On Career: Grandfather
Best Advise My Mum Gave Me: Get a job
The One Thing I Can’t Live Without: My phone
Team I Love Beating: Mounties
Biggest Rugby Achievement: Making 2008 Steamers squad
Favourite Ground: Nicholson Field (Tauranga Boys College)
Favourite Food: KFC
Favourite Movie: I am Legend
Favourite Book: Sports section of the newspaper
Worst Job: Lawn mowing
Three People I Would Invite To A BBQ: The Hulk, Will Smith, Rihana

For further information contact:
Paul Feeney Steamers Manager
07 574 2037 029 478 4296

STEAMERS TASTE DEFEAT IN INVERCARGILL

Tue, 15 Sep 2009 10:14:46 +0100

Media Release - 11 September 2009

Light rain greeted the players at Rugby Park in Invercargill, as the Bay of Plenty Steamers entered the top of the table Air New Zealand Cup clash, against the Southland Stags on Friday (11 September 2009) evening.

A penalty apiece in the first few minutes opened the scoring, with the Southland kicker then slotting two further penalty attempts to lead 9-3, after 25 minutes in the first spell. A concerted Southland attack from 50 meters, coupled with a couple of missed Bay tackles, led to the only touchdown of the match.

With ten minutes to go in the first spell, the Steamers went on attack, being camped on the Southland line. Jason Hona’s attempt to touch down was ruled held up. Another sustained attack ended with a Delany penalty that bounced over off the posts, after the half time hooter had sounded.

While possession and territory was relatively even at half time, the Southland side had a 16-6 advantage. The Steamers had paid the price of turned over ball and handling errors.

As they have done for most of the season, the Steamers upped the intensity of their game in the second spell. Two Southland errors were punished by Delany, to get his team right back into the encounter.

The game which was played at pace - went up and down the field, with the Steamers seeing several promising attacks, snuffed out by the Southland defence. With time running out, Southland kicked a further penalty to take out the match 19-12.

While the Steamers posted their second loss of the 2009 Air New Zealand Cup, there were plenty of positives in the Bay of Plenty game. Luke Braid had another grand game chasing the loose ball, with Ben Smith rock solid at fullback.

Joe Savage and Josh Hall, who have returned to the team from injury, both made their mark off the bench in the second spell. After the long trip home tomorrow - attention will quickly turn to next Thursday nights match at Baypark against Tasman.

Result

Southland 19 BOP Steamers 12 (Mike Delany 4 pens)

For further information contact:
Paul Feeney Steamers Manager
07 574 2037 029 478 4296

BAY OF PLENTY STEAMERS JOURNEY TO THE DEEP SOUTH THIS WEEKEND

Thu, 10 Sep 2009 08:57:00 +0100

Media Release 9 September 2009

This weeks assignment for the Bay of Plenty Steamers, is the long journey to Invercargill to meet the Southland Stags on Friday 11 September 2009) evening.

Like the Steamers, the Southland team have a huge following of passionate supporters, who are likely to give the Steamers plenty of verbal stick. However it doesn’t get better than top of the Air New Zealand Cup point’s table, with the Steamers targeting another victory in the far south.

The top of the table Air New Zealand Cup clash is a huge game for both sides. Steamers assistant coach Steve Miln said, “ The Southland game is a massive challenge on two fronts. The long journey to Invercargill can be very taxing, while the passionate home support that the Southland side will receive, will give them plenty of motivation and encouragement”.

There is just one change in Friday nights starting line-up, from the team that defeated Canterbury last week. With loose forward Tanerau Latimer back on All Black duty, and Solomon King unavailable due to injury, Mark Burman will move from lock to blindside flanker.

Two players returning to the team from injury are sure to be raring to get onto Rugby Park from the bench. Joe Savage who captained the side in the Steamers Air New Zealand Cup match is the sides nominated reserve prop this Friday. Making his first appearance this season in the Steamers uniform will be replacement halfback Josh Hall.

Steve Miln went on to say “while the loss of Tanerau Latimer who returns to the All Blacks is disappointing, it opens the door for other players to make their mark in the Steamers colours”. Loose forwards Zac Hohneck and Matt Henwood, have both been called into the Steamers, for the trip to the bottom of the South Island.

Hohneck who captained the Bay Under 20 side last week, is one of the emerging young talent in Bay of Plenty rugby, while Opotiki’s Matt Henwood made his mark in Baywide Premier club rugby this season.

11 September 2009 @ Rugby Park Invercargill – 7.35pm kickoff
Bay of Plenty Steamers v Canterbury
Ben Smith, Nigel Hunt, Cory Aporo, Phil Burliegh, Jason Hona, Mike Delany, Junior Poluleuligaga, Colin Bourke (captain) Luke Braid, Mark Burman, Culum Retallick, John Moore, James McGougan, John Pareanga, Josh Hohneck.
Reserves: Dean Elmiger, Joe Savage, Matt Henwood, Zak Honeck, Josh Hall, Wayne Hughson, Toby Arnold.

Head Coach: Sean Horan Assistant Coach: Steve Miln Manager: Paul Feeney

For further information contact:
Paul Feeney Steamers Manager
07 574 2037 029 478 4296

STEAMERS UPDATE - 7 SEPTEMBER

Tue, 08 Sep 2009 11:01:10 +0100

Media Release 7 September 2009

This weeks mission is the long journey to Invercargill to meet the Southland Stags. Like the Steamers the Stags have a huge following of passionate supporters, who are likely to give the Steamers plenty of verbal stick.

However it doesn’t get better than top of the Air New Zealand Cup point’s table, with the Steamers targeting another victory in the far south.

Steamers Program (7 - 11 September 2009)

Monday (7th) Training at Baypark
Tuesday (8th) Gym work
Wednesday (9th) Training at Baypark 9-10.30am
School visits: Edgecumbe, Opotiki
Thursday (10th) Travel to Invercargill – captains run
Friday (11th) Steamers v Southland @ Rugby Park Invercargill – kick-off 7.35pm

Air New Zealand Cup Information

Bay of Plenty v Southland (1939 – 2008)
Played 30
BOP 18 Southland 11 Draw 1
Last Match: Souhland 45 BOP 11 (2009 Air NZ Cup quarterfinal)

2009 Leading Points Scorers: Mike Delany (Bay of Plenty) 87, D Carter (Canterbury) 76

Player Profile

Each week the Steamers Update will profile one of the 2009 Steamers. This week we catch-up with the Steamers tight head prop James McGougan
James McGougan
Age: 24
Height: 1.84m
Weight: 120k
Education: Trident HS, Whakatane
Favourite Player: Carlos Spencer
Favourite Ground: Trident High School
Biggest Influence On Career: Mum and Dad
Best Advise My Mum Gave Me: Ask your Dad
The One Thing I Can’t Live Without: Chocolate
Hobbies: Hunting, eating
Favourite Actor: Will Farrell
Favourite Musician: Kora
Favourite Book: Behind the tattooed face
Worst Job: Working at Burger King
Four People I Would Invite To A BBQ: Nicky Watson, Chuck Norris, Pippa Wetzell, Fred Dagg

For further information contact:
Paul Feeney Steamers Manager
07 574 2037 029 478 4296

STEAMERS DEFEAT CANTERBURY IN A NAIL BITING FINISH

Mon, 07 Sep 2009 09:55:57 +0100

Media Release 6 September 2009

The only regret that the Bay of Plenty Steamers had when they left Baypark at Mount Maunganui on Saturday (5 September 2009) was that the Ranfurly Shield wasn’t on the line.

For the second time in the 2009 Air New Zealand Cup, the Steamers upset the current Ranfurly Shield holders – when they defeated Canterbury 19-17 in a nail biting finish. Just three weeks ago the Bay of Plenty Steamers beat Wellington who were the then holders of the “Log of Wood”.

The South Island visitors made the early running, in front of another large crowd of noisy Steamers supporters. After a number of attacking plays, Canterbury grabbed the first try of the match after twenty-five minutes, when James Paterson crossed for the touchdown.

As has happened all season Steamers super boot Mike Delany kept the home side in the encounter, with two penalty goals in the first spell – which saw a 8-6 advantage to Canterbury at the break.

The second spell belonged to the Steamers, who upped the ante on attack, and defended with rare ferocity. After Canterbury extended their lead courtesy of a penalty, the Steamers hit the front for the first time in the game, when second five Phil Burliegh found the gap to score under the posts. The resultant conversion by Delany turned our to be the match winner.

Two further penalty goals from Mike Delany, and one to Canterbury’s Steven Brett, saw the Bay holding a two-point advantage with ten minutes remaining in the match. Spurred on by frenzied encouragement from the home team supporters, the Steamers repelled everything that Canterbury threw at them to take out the match 19-17 – and return to the top of the Air New Zealand Cup point’s table.

Steamers captain Colin Bourke continued his outstanding form this season, leading the charge forward, especially in the second spell. The Steamers tall timber of John Moore and Culum Rettalick played a big role, cementing the forward pack together, with the front row not giving an inch.

In the back line Delany continued his outstanding form in the 2009 season, with his piecing runs and probing kicks. Ben Smith had a sound game in his debut at full back for the Steamers, with Phil Burliegh who was always looking for opportunities rewarded with the Steamers touch down.

Result
BOP Steamers 19 (Phil Burliegh try; Mike Delany 4 pens con) Canterbury 17 (J Paterson try, S Brett 4 pens) HT 6-8

For further information contact:
Paul Feeney Steamers Manager
07 574 2037 029 478 4296

STEAMERS PREPARE FOR BATTLE AGAINST CANTERBURY AT BAYPARK

Fri, 04 Sep 2009 09:58:47 +0100

Media Release - 3 September 2009

There is no bigger challenge in the Air New Zealand Cup each season, than facing the current Ranfurly Shield holders. This Saturday (5 September 2009) the Bay of Plenty Steamers will face that challenge for the second time this season.

While the “Log of Wood” is not at stake on the weekend, it is expected that the passionate and vocal Steamers fans will come in their thousands, as there team endeavors to defeat current Shield holders Canterbury.

Three weeks ago the Steamers thrilled their supporters when they dispatched the then Ranfurly Shield holders Wellington – however after the first loss of the Air New Zealand Cup last week, revenge will be on the teams mind.

A big reason to motivate the Steamers this weekend is the memory of Canterbury taking the “Log of Wood” from the Bay in 2004.

Steamers Assistant Coach Steve Miln said “in spite of the big challenge facing the Steamers, we are targeting a win on Saturday to get our Air New Zealand Cup campaign back on track”. “The coaching staff have concentrated on freshening the side this week, after a bruising contest against Auckland”.

“The team aim will be to run hard at the opposition from the start and try to put them under pressure”. “We know that it will cost us dearly if Canterbury get their momentum going early in the match” said Miln.

One of the real positives this season is that the Steamers have had the luxury of continuity of selection, with few significant injuries to key players. The only change to the starting line-up from last week is Ben Smith at fullback, with Zar Lawrence on the bench. Toby Arnold comes back into the reserves from the Bay Development team.

Another plus is that current All Black Tanerau Latimer will play. The loose forward trio of Latimer, skipper Colin Bourke and Luke Braid hunt as a pack and could cause Canterbury all sorts of problems.

5 September 2009 @ Baypark Mount Maunganui – 5.30pm kick-off
Bay of Plenty Steamers v Canterbury
Ben Smith, Nigel Hunt, Cory Aporo, Phil Burliegh, Jason Hona, Mike Delany, Junior Poluleuligaga, Colin Bourke (captain) Luke Braid, Tanerau Latimer, Culum Retallick, John Moore, James McGougan, John Pareanga, Josh Hohneck.
Reserves: Dean Elmiger, Ted Tauroa, Mark Burman, Solomon King, Wayne Hughson, Zar Lawrence, Toby Arnold.
Head Coach: Sean Horan Assistant Coach: Steve Miln Manager: Paul Feeney

For further information contact:
Paul Feeney Steamers Manager
07 574 2037 029 478 4296

STEAMERS UPDATE - 31 AUGUST

Tue, 01 Sep 2009 16:49:09 +0100

Media Release 31 August 2009

While there was some disappointment with the Steamers loss to Auckland on Sunday there was little time for the side to look backwards. While the challenge of Canterbury this Saturday is another big hill to climb - the Steamers will have the advantage of their many passionate and vocal supporters on hand at Baypark Mount Maunganui.

Another reason to motivate the Steamers this weekend is the memory of Canterbury taking the “Log of Wood” from the Bay in 2004.

Steamers Program (1 – 5 September 2009)

Tuesday (1st) Team meeting/game review
Wednesday (2nd) Gym work
Thursday (3rd) Training @ Bay Park 9 -10.30am
School visits (pm) Opotiki, Edgecumbe, Kawerau
Friday (4th) Captains run @ Baypark 10-11am
Saturday (5th) Steamers v Canterbury, Baypark 5.30pm

Air New Zealand Cup Information

Bay of Plenty v Canterbury (1938 – 2008)
Played 28
Canterbury 20 BOP 6 Draw 2
Last Match: Canterbury 37 Steamers 20

2009 Leading Points Scorers: D Carter (Canterbury) 76 Mike Delany (Bay of Plenty) 73,

Player Profile

Each week the Steamers Update will profile one of the 2009 Steamers. This week we catch up with Nigel Hunt who grabbed the Steamers try on Sunday against Auckland.
Nigel Hunt
Age: 26 years
Height: 1.75m
Weight: 90kg
Education: Porirua College
Biggest Achievement: Winning the sevens gold medal at the 2006 Commonwealth Games
Team I love Beating: Waikato
Coach I Most Respect: Gordon Teitjens
Player I Most Respect: Michael Jones
Favourite Ground: Westpac Stadium
The One Thing I Can’t Live Without: My family
Hobbies: Tenpin bowling, tennis, touch rugby
Favourite Country: Dubai
Favourite Actor: John Black & Chris Tucker
Favourite Musician: UB40
Favourite Food: Taro
Favourite Movie: The Kingdom

For further information contact:
Paul Feeney Steamers Manager
07 574 2037 029 478 4296

STEAMERS LOSE UNBEATEN RECORD TO AUCKLAND

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 15:02:14 +0100

Media Release - 30 August 2009

The only certainty when a team has an unbeaten record is that defeat will eventually arrive. On Sunday (30 August 2009) at Eden Park, the Bay of Plenty Steamers undefeated run in the 2009 Air New Zealand Cup came to an end.

Not only were Air New Zealand Cup points on offer in the encounter against Auckland – but also the inaugural John Drake Boot was on the line. Auckland made the early running with a two tries taking them to a 14 nil lead, before mercurial Bay kicker Mike Delany slotted two penalties, to see a 14-6 Auckland advantage at the break.

Delany narrowed the gap with his third penalty goal, before All Black Joe Rokocoko crossed for his second touchdown of the match. The fourth Auckland try came after Paul Williams dotted down late in the encounter - however the Steamers showed that that they never surrender.

In the last play of the game (after the hooter had gone for full time) the Steamers attacked some eighty metres from the try line. Replacement back Ben Smith made the initial burst with skipper Colin Bourke running at pace, before Nigel Hunt finished off scoring the five pointer.

While the record book will show that Auckland won the encounter 29-14, the Steamers never gave up the fight, with the last try of the match showing the teams resolve. The Bay of Plenty team were extremely unlucky not to pick up a seven pointer in the first half. Flying Steamers wing Jason one made a brilliant intercept and galloped away - only to be called back because of the Auckland forward pass.

Attention for the Blue and Gold brigade will now turn to next weeks big challenge, when they host Ranfurly Shield holders Canterbury, at Baypark in Mount Maunganui

Result
Auckland 29 (J Rokocoko 2, D Bowden, P Williams tries; Bowden 3 con pen) BOP Steamers 14 (Nigel Hunt try; Mike Delany 3 pens)

For further information contact:
Paul Feeney Steamers Manager
07 574 2037 029 478 4296

STEAMERS READY FOR AUCKLAND CHALLENGE

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 14:56:19 +0100

Media Release - 30 August 2009

Attention for the Blue and Gold brigade will now turn to next weeks big challenge, when they host Ranfurly Shield holders Canterbury, at Baypark in Mount Maunganui

Result
Auckland 29 (J Rokocoko 2, D Bowden, P Williams tries; Bowden 3 con pen) BOP Steamers 14 (Nigel Hunt try; Mike Delany 3 pens)

For further information contact:
Paul Feeney Steamers Manager
07 574 2037 029 478 4296

THE MASTERCARD ALL BLACKS ROADSHOW

Wed, 26 Aug 2009 14:14:57 +0100

Test your rugby skills in the MasterCard All Blacks Roadshow.

Launching on 27th June and running throughout July and September, you can take part in a series of challenges to test your rugby skills to see how you measure up. And what better way to round off a fantastic day than with the chance to meet an All Black and perhaps grab an autograph.

The show stops at 13 destinations around the country, and visits The Strand Reclamation Water Feature Park in Tauranga on Sunday 6th September and the Village Green in Rotorua on Sunday 13th September.

For venue details and times go to www.mastercardroadshow.co.nz

AUCKLAND AND BAY OF PLENTY TO CONTEST 'JOHN DRAKE BOOT' FOR THE FIRST TIME

Tue, 25 Aug 2009 09:33:23 +0100

This Sunday afternoon, Auckland and Bay of Plenty will compete for the inaugural ‘John Drake Boot’ when the two teams meet at Eden Park in Round 5 of the Air New Zealand Cup.

The trophy, a boot electroplated in silver, commemorates the life of former All Black and Auckland representative, John Drake, who passed away suddenly last December at the age of 49.

In 1998 Drake and his family relocated to Mt Maunganui and fell in love with life in the Bay of Plenty. While no longer playing, he became a rugby commentator with SKY Television and his connection to rugby continued.

In 1987 Drake, along with Grant Fox, David Kirk and Sean Fitzpatrick played in teams that won the inaugural Rugby World Cup, the Provincial Championship and the Auckland Club Championship.

Current Auckland Rugby Chairman Ken Baguley was coaching Auckland’s University side at the time and following the 1987 World Cup final, Drake returned to training the next week.

After seeing Baguley’s boots were long past their best, Drake offered to give him the boots that he wore in the victorious Rugby World Cup final the week before at Eden Park.

Not thinking they should be a collector’s item, Baguley continued to wear the boots while he coached.

In 1994 Baguely’s wife Jan retrieved one of the boots from his boot basket and had it electroplated in silver as a surprise for his 50th birthday.

“In light of the tragic passing of Drakey, Jan and I could think of no better home for Drakey’s boot than for it to become the trophy that Auckland and Bay of Plenty compete for whenever they play against one another,” Baguely said.

Auckland Rugby CEO Andy Dalton said the new trophy was a great way to commemorate a man who had given so much to rugby.

“The death of John Drake was felt right across the rugby community and this new trophy is a brilliant way to celebrate the immense contribution Drakey made to our game and how much-loved and well regarded he was in both Auckland and the Bay.”

Bay of Plenty Rugby Union CEO Jeremy Curragh agreed: “Drakey was a man whose enthusiasm and knowledge for the game was exceptional. He has given a huge amount to rugby and was a great support to me and the Bay of Plenty Rugby Union in recent years.

“Both Auckland and Bay of Plenty Rugby communities have benefited hugely from the work of Drakey and the John Drake Boot is a great way for the two Unions to jointly celebrate the legacy of John Drake.”

Please note the John Drake Boot will be on display during Tuesday’s media session at 2pm – Unitec and will be presented at the game to the winning captain by John Drake’s wife Cathy Drake on Sunday afternoon, 2.35pm at Eden Park

STEAMERS UPDATE 24 AUGUST

Mon, 24 Aug 2009 15:03:58 +0100

Media Release 24 August 2009

The Bay of Plenty Steamers aren’t taking their position at the top of the Air New Zealand points table for granted. Immediately after the Waikato victory, the focus and attention of the team switched to this weeks battle against long time rivals Auckland

While the Steamers are preparing for another game of attrition – the many Steamers fans that will follow their favourites to Auckland have fond memories of Eden Park. The 15 August 2004 will be inked in Bay of Plenty rugby history forever as the day that the Steamers lifted aloft the Ranfurly Shield in triumph

Steamers Program (24 - 30 August 2009)

Monday (24th)
School visits – Tauranga Girls College, Aquinas College, Katikati College
Tuesday (25th) Training at Baypark: 10.30 – 11.30am then 1 - 2 pm
Wednesday (26th) Training at Baypark: 11am – 1pm
Thursday (27th) Scheduled day off
Friday (28th) Training at Baypark: 10.30am - noon
Saturday (29th) Departure for Auckland and Captains run
Sunday (30th) Steamers v Auckland, Eden Park – 2.45pm

Air New Zealand Cup Information

Bay of Plenty v Auckland (1912 – 2008)
Played 54
Auckland 43 BOP 11
Last Match: Auckland 25 BOP 20 (2008)

2009 Leading Points Scorers: Mike Delany (Bay of Plenty) 64, L Munro (Northland 62,
D Carter (Canterbury) 55

Player Profile

Each week the Steamers Update will profile one of the 2009 Steamers. This week we catch up with a long serving Steamer in John Moore.
John Moore
Age: 31 years
Height: 1.98m
Weight: 114 kilos
Education: Western Heights HS
Biggest Achievement: Asked to play rugby in France
Team I love Beating: All teams
Coach/s I Respect The Most: Dennis and Rob Beckett (Ngongotaha Rugby Club)
Favourite Ground: Ngongotaha Domain
Worst Thing About Rugby: Injuries
The One Thing I Can’t Live Without: My Computer
Most Embarrassing Moment: Being the tallest player and playing hooker
Favourite Country: France
Favourite Actor: Will Smith
Three People I Would Invite For A BBQ: Will Smith, Chris Tucker, The boys of the Flight of the Concord
For further information contact:
Paul Feeney Steamers Manager
07 574 2037 029 478 4296

BAY OF PLENTY STEAMERS THRILL LARGE CROWD AT BAYPARK

Mon, 24 Aug 2009 11:11:36 +0100

Media Release - 23 August 2009

Thousands of passionate Bay of Plenty Steamers fans streamed into Baypark at Mount Maunganui on Saturday (22 August 2009) to watch “Our Team” defeat archrivals Waikato.

In spite of having less territory and possession than Waikato, the Steamers outstanding defence denied all but one attempt to cross the try line - with the Steamers taking out Air New Zealand encounter 32-16.

A Waikato penalty from Callum Bruce opened the scoring after ten minutes, with Mike Delany then punishing the opposition mistakes with two penalty goals. Waikato hit the lead after two successful penalties from Callum Bruce, before the first touchdown of the match.

The only try of the first half came after 30 minutes, when Mike Delany ran through the Waikato defence, with Steamers halfback Junior Poluleuligaga finishing the move to grab the try – with Delany slotting the conversion to give the home side a 13-9 advantage at the break.

Another Delany penalty increased the Steamers lead, before a further Bay assault on the line was rewarded, with flanker Solomon King awarded the touchdown. A Bay of Plenty mistake at the restart of play, led to the sole Waikato try of the match scored by Save Tokula.

Going into the last quarter of the match the Steamers led 26-16, before two further long range Delany penalties, gave the Steamers fans the victory they came in their thousands to enjoy.

While the Steamers mercurial first five Mike Delany orchestrated the victory, the teams outstanding defence and never say die attitude won the day.

The icing on the cake was nearly provided later in the evening when Auckland just failed to defeat Wellington – which would have made next weeks game against Auckland a Ranfurly Shield challenge.

The Steamers fourth successive win again sees the Bay of Plenty team at the top of the Air New Zealand Cup point’s table.

Result

BOP Steamers 32 (Junior Poluleuligaga, Solomon King tries; Mike Delany 6 pens 2 cons) Waikato 16 (Save Tokula try; Callum Bruce 3 pens con)

For further information contact:

Paul Feeney Steamers Manager
07 574 2037 029 478 4296

STEAMERS BIG TEST AGAINST WAIKATO

Fri, 21 Aug 2009 17:50:41 +0100

Media Release 20 August 2009

Another big challenge awaits the Bay of Plenty Steamers this Saturday (22 August 2009) afternoon, at Baypark Stadium in Mount Maunganui.

Games against long time archrivals Waikato always brings an intensity to the encounters, which few other Steamers matches will rival during the Air New Zealand Cup season. Surprisingly the two neighbours haven’t met since 2005 – when the Steamers prevailed 17-13.

In the days before the National Championship was established in 1976, the biggest game of the season, was always the battle against the team from the other side of the Kaimai ranges. In the 71 encounters since 1926 - Waikato have won 45, Bay of Plenty 22, with four drawn

Steamers Manager Paul Feeney said “the last three weeks don’t count, with the local derby against Waikato on the horizon this weekend”. “Waikato like to see themselves as the big brother, which always provides the Steamers with an extra incentive for victory”.

With the Steamers sitting at the top of the Air New Zealand Cup point’s table after three weeks, the are just two changes to this weekends starting lineup. Solomon King returns to the number six jersey with Tanerau Latimer returning to All Black duty, and former Waikato lock Mark Burman has been promoted to the starting fifteen

One player who is making a real impression in the Air New Zealand Cup this season is mercurial first five Mike Delany. The Steamers pivot is third on the individual points tally, with three conversions and twelve penalty goals.

Last week Delany appeared to have the ball on a string, which coupled with his probing tactical kicking caused Wellington headaches all game.

Another factor in the team success is the rock solid front row of Josh Hohneck, John Pareanga and James McGougan. A measure of the teams success is the ability of players to step up when required – with Josh Hohneck being a more than able replacement for injured skipper Joe Savage.

15 August 2009 @ Rotorua International Stadium – 7.35pm kick-off
Bay of Plenty Steamers v Wellington
Zar Lawrence, Nigel Hunt, Cory Aporo, Phil Burliegh, Jason Hona, Mike Delany, Junior Poluleuligaga, Colin Bourke (captain) Luke Braid, Solomon King, Culum Retallick, Mark Burman, James McGougan, John Pareanga, Josh Hohneck.
Reserves: Dean Elmiger, Ted Tauroa, John Moore, Zak Hohneck Nick McCashin, Wayne Hughson, Toby Arnold.
Head Coach: Sean Horan Assistant Coach: Steve Miln Manager: Paul Feeney

Not available for selection: Tanerau Latimer, Matt Vant Leven, Ben Smith, Joe Savage, Clinton Toopi, Marcel Cummings-Toone, Josh Hall, Lance MacDonald.

For further information contact:
Paul Feeney Steamers Manager
07 574 2037 029 478 4296

STEAMERS UPDATE 17 AUGUST

Wed, 19 Aug 2009 12:35:38 +0100

Media Release 17 August 2009

After the win over Wellington on Saturday night, the Steamers sit alone at the top of the Air New Zealand Cup points table (with a unbeaten record).

However this week brings another big challenge against archrivals Waikato at Baypark, Mount Maunganui on Saturday (22 August 2009) afternoon. Surprisingly the two neighbours haven’t met since 2005 – when the Steamers prevailed 17-13.

Steamers Program (18 - 22 August 2009)

Tuesday (18th) Training at Baypark
Wednesday (19th) Scheduled day off
Thursday (20th) Team sessions at Baypark
School visits – Gate Pa, Brookfield
Friday (21st) Captains run at Baypark (10am)
Saturday (22nd) Steamers v Waikato @ Baypark Mount Maunganui – kickoff 2.35pm

Air New Zealand Cup Information

Bay of Plenty v Waikato (1926 – 2005)
Played 71
Waikato 45 BOP 22 Draw 4
Last Match (2005) BOP 17 Waikato 13

2009 Leading Points Scorers: D Carter 55 M Berquist (Hawkes Bay) 44 – Mike Delany (Bay of Plenty) 42.

Player Profile

Each week the Steamers Update will profile one of the 2009 Steamers. This week we chat with one of this seasons new recruits Phil Burliegh. Originally from Canterbury Phil shifted north this season.

Phillip Burleigh

Age: 22 years

Height: 1.88m

Weight: 92k

Education: Shirley BHS (Christchurch)

Biggest Achievement: Playing for Canterbury
Team

I love Beating: Shirley

Biggest Influence on my Career: My Dad

Coach I Respect The Most: Wayne Burliegh

Player I Respect The Most: Cory Aporo

Worst Thing About Rugby: Cold training

Most Embarrassing Moment: Losing shorts on the field

Favourite Food: Thai

PAUL FEENEY APPOINTED STEAMERS MANAGER

Wed, 19 Aug 2009 11:07:35 +0100

Media Advise

The Bay of Plenty wish to advise that Paul Feeney has been appointed the Steamers Manager until the end of the 2009 season.

Paul's contact numbers are as follows:
DDI (07) 927 1310
Mob: 029 478 4296
Fax: (07) 574 2046
E Mail: paul@boprugby.co.nz

STEAMERS UPSET WELLINGTON IN ROTORUA 16 AUGUST

Mon, 17 Aug 2009 09:13:27 +0100

Media Release - 16 August 2009

For just the third time in nearly one hundred years, the Bay of Plenty Steamers have defeated Wellington. The upset victory has taken the Steamers to an outright lead in the Air New Zealand Cup, after three rounds in the 2009 championship.

The Steamers made their intentions clear from the opening whistle at the Rotorua International Stadium - leading 21-6 at the half time break.

Steamers center Cory Aporo opened the scoring after four minutes, running twenty metres through the Wellington defence to dot down. Two penalty goals from the Mike Delany, and a second touchdown to Aporo, saw the Steamers take a fifteen-point advantage into the break.

A determined fight back from the visitors in the second half, saw them cross for a try and boot home two further penalties. The home teams defence withstood further pressure, resulting in the Steamers grabbing their third successive Air New Zealand Cup victory 21-17.

Steamers first five Mike Delany again played a major part in his sides win. His piercing runs with the ball, and his probing kicks played a big part in his sides victory.

Steamers Head Coach Sean Horan said “our team first forty minutes was almost faultless, with clear accurate moves, and the application of real pressure on the opposition”. “ Wellington threw everything at us in the second spell, which we managed to weather and grab the win”.

Sean paid tribute to the Steamers forward pack that allowed Delany to dictate play. “the team had totally emptied the tank as the traipsed from the field in victory”.

While the Steamers are the only undefeated team in the 2009 Air New Zealand Cup after three rounds, team attention will now turn to next weeks battle against archrivals Waikato at Baypark in Mount Maunganui

Result BOP Steamers 21 (Cory Aporo 2 tries; Mike Delany 3 pens con) Wellington 17 (S Fuglistaller try; D Kirkpatrick 2 pen, F Fili 2 pens) HT 21-6.

STEAMERS POST SOLID VICTORY IN PUKEKOHE - 9 AUGUST

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 11:06:28 +0100

Media Release - 9 August 2009

Two tries in five minutes late in the second spell, wrapped up the Bay of Plenty victory over Counties Manukau on Sunday (9 August 2009). in round two of the Air New Zealand Cup.

The Steamers who were expecting a tough encounter at Bayer Growers Stadium in Pukekohe, again upped the intensity in the second half to post a solid 32-9 win.

A penalty apiece opened the scoring, before Nigel Hunt broke away from the Counties defence, which ended with Jason Hona crossing for a try after eleven minutes. Two further penalties to Mike Delany, saw the Steamers take a 16-6 led into the half time break.

In spite of having considerably less possession than Counties in the first half - Mike Delany kept his side on attack with a number of probing kicks down the field.

Two-second half penalty goals to Delany gave the Steamers to a 13-point advantage, before two quick Steamers touchdowns sealed the match. The first was a long looping pass out to left wing Jason Hona who grabbed his second try of the game.

Nigel Hunt, who was always looking to chase the ball, grabbed his side’s third try of the match, which resulted in the Steamers finishing with a 23 point victory.

For the second week in a row Mike Delany controlled the momentum with his tactical kicking. Another clear advantage was the Steamers defence, which held strong against a number of Counties attacks.

While the second successive victory keeps the Steamers near the top of the Air New Zealand Cup points tally, they face a real challenge next Saturday (15 August 2009). The Steamers will have the home crowd advantage at the Rotorua International Stadium against Wellington, however they will need to eliminate the first half errors of the Counties game, if they wish to take points from the encounter.

Result
BOP Steamers 32 (Jason Hona 2, Nigel Hunt tries; Mike Delany 5 pens con) Counties Manukau 9 (Josh Hall 3 pens)

For further information contact:
Sean Horan Steamers Manager
DDI 07 927 1310 029 201 4240

STEAMERS SQUAD SELECTED TO PLAY COUNTIES MANAKAU 9 AUGUST 2009

Wed, 05 Aug 2009 16:15:17 +0100

The confirmed squad is:

1 James McGougan

2 John Pareanga

3 Josh Hohneck

4 John Moore

5 Culum Retallick

6 Tanerau Latimer

7 Luke Braid

8 Colin Bourke (captain)

9 Junior Poluleuligaga

10 Mike Delany

11 Jason Hona

12 Cory Aporo

13 Nigel Hunt

14 Ben Smith

15 Zar Lawrence

Reserves: Dean Elmiger, Ted Tauroa, Mark Burman, Solomon King, Nick McCashin, Phil Burleigh, Wayne Hughson.

BAY STEAMERS WIN IN ROTORUA - 31 JULY

Mon, 03 Aug 2009 12:07:26 +0100

Media Release 31 July 2009

The Bay of Plenty Steamers, showed all the steel and resolve of old in the second half, when they came from a eleven point deficit at the break, to defeat Northland in their Air New Zealand Cup season opener.

The visitors to the Rotorua International Stadium, opened the scoring after eight minutes with a try to Troy Woodman, from a Steamers dropped ball.

The Steamers worked their way back onto attack, and were rewarded with a penalty goal from Mike Delaney. While the home side made a couple of promising attacks, a number of simple mistakes, allowed Northland to kick their way back onto attack. Three penalty goals from the boot of Lachlan Munroe saw Northland take a 14-3 lead into the half time break.

A fired up Steamers came back onto the paddock after the break, and quickly went on the offensive. After sustained pressure Mike Delany opened the Steamers second half account with a penalty goal.

Minutes later, a long range Steamers attack led to Luke Braid chasing the ball to score a relatively easy try. The Delany conversion resulted in the home side trailing by a solitary point.

Three further penalties to the Steamers mercurial first five Mike Delany – and sustained defense against several Northland attacks, saw the Steamers take out the encounter 19-14.

The Steamers tall timber continually cleaned up the lineouts, with Culum Retallick having a stand out match. Steamers kicking maestro Delany was in superb form with his tactical kicking and general all round play.

Result
BOP Steamers 19 (Luke Braid try; Mike Delany 4 pens con) Northland 14 (Troy Woodman try; Lachlan Munro 3 pens)

For further information contact:
Sean Horan Steamers Manager
DDI 07 927 1310 029 201 4240

STEAMERS UPDATE - 27 JULY

Mon, 03 Aug 2009 09:27:40 +0100

Media Release 27 July 2009

The preliminary skirmishes are over - with the main event about to commence this Friday night (31 July 2009), when the Bay of Plenty Steamers kick off their Air New Zealand Cup campaign, at the Rotorua International Stadium.

To gauge the length of the season, the current depths of winter will have changed to the barmy days of spring, when they Steamers play their last game against Taranaki on the 25th of October. This weeks Air New Zealand Cup opponents are long time rivals Northland.

With the team having the weekend off after the Hawkes Bay game on Friday - there is a full week of training at Steamers Headquarters at Baypark, scheduled for the lead in to the Northland game

Steamers Program (27 – 31 July 2009)

Monday (27th) Training at Baypark
Tuesday (28th) Training at Baypark
Wednesday (29th) Training at Baypark
Thursday (30th) Captains run at Baypark
Friday (31st) Steamers v Northland @ Rotorua International Stadium – 7.35pm kickoff

Player Profile
Each week the Steamers Update will profile one of the 2009 Steamers. This week we profile winger Ben Smith, who has returned home to the Bay, after playing for Otago and the Highlanders

Ben Smith

Age: 26 years
Height: 1.81m
Weight: 87k
Biggest Achievement: Debut for the Highlanders against the Bulls in Pretoria.
Team I love Beating: Southern (Dunedin)
Biggest Influence on my Career: Otago Rugby
Player I Respect the Most: Craig Newby
Coach I Respect the Most: Greg Cooper
Favourite Ground: University Oval
Worst Thing About Rugby: Waiting for a 7.30pm kick-off
Favourite Food: Bananas
Favourite Movie: Slumdog Millionaire
Favourite Book: Angels and Demons
Best Advise My Mum Gave Me: “Don’t you lie to me”
Four People I Would Invite to a BBQ: Barak Obama, Richard Branson, Ricky Gervais, Tiger Woods

For further information contact:
Sean Horan Steamers Manager
DDI 07 927 1310 029 201 4240

STEAMERS WEEKLY UPDATE - 20 JULY

Fri, 17 Jul 2009 13:21:13 +0100

Media Release - 20 July 2009

This week the Steamers focus is the last preparatory game, before the Air New Zealand Cup kicks off against Northland on Friday 31st July, at the Rotorua International Stadium.

This Friday (24 July 2009) afternoon the Steamers will play their first game in the Western Bay this season, when they meet Hawkes Bay at the Tauranga Domain. The game that kicks off at 2pm, matches the Steamers against long time rivals Hawkes Bay, with any encounter between the two sides usually producing an exciting contest.

Returning to Training
Mike Delany, John Moore, Phil Burliegh

Steamers Program (20 – 24 July 2009)
Monday (20th) Training at BayPark, Mount Maunganui
Tuesday (21st) Training at BayPark,
Wednesday (22nd) Training at Rugby Park, Whakatane and Eastern BOP school visit/s
Thursday (23rd) Captains run at BayPark
Friday (24th) Steamers v Hawkes Bay @ Tauranga Domain – 2pm kickoff

Player Profile
Each week the Steamers Update will profile one of the 2009 Steamers. This week is the turn of winger Jason Hona. The flying outside back who plays club rugby for Rangataua, is another Streamer to graduate from Tauranga Boys College.

Jason Hona
Age: 23 years
Height: 1.9m
Weight: 102k
Education: Tauranga Boys College
Most Respected Player: Matua Parkinson
Biggest Achievement: First Black (NZ Sevens) Jersey
Team I love Beating: Te Puna
Other Sports: Golf
Favourite Food: Steak & Eggs
Favourite Movie: Superbad
Favourite Ground: Te Ariki Park
Best Advise My Mum Gave Me: Tie up my shorts
Biggest Influence On My Career: Mum and Dad
If I Was Prime Minister I’d: Play board games with Winston Peters

For further information contact:
Sean Horan Steamers Manager
DDI 07 927 1310 029 201 4240

ROTOITI STORM INTO PREMIER CONTENTION

Mon, 13 Jul 2009 10:49:44 +0100

Media Release - 12 July 2009

Just when Rotoiti were being written out of semi-final contention in the Bartercard Baywide Premier championship – they stormed back into the picture when they defeated Rangataua on Saturday (11 July 2009).

While the competition formbook suggested Rangataua at home in front of their passionate supporters should be to good for the Rotorua visitors, Rotoiti had other ideas posting a vital 15-3 victory.

The visitors simply out muscled last year’s Premier runner-ups, relegating Rangataua from second to fifth on the point’s ledger. A second Rotoiti touchdown in the second spell extended the eight-point half time advantage to the visitors. For Rotoiti Sigfried Fisihoi, Josevata Tawake crossed for five points apiece, with John Ririnui the sole Rangataua point scorer with a penalty goal.

Whakarewarewa joined Te Puke Sports at the top of the leader board, when they ran past Whakatane Marist 46-19, at Puarenga Park. Paula Asaeli led the way for Whaka with two tries with Steven Schenk, Himiona Marr, Trent Sweeney, Trent Vatselias, Harold Koia, and Pomane Karauria all dotting down.

The Eastern Bay side belied their position at the bottom of the points tally, with another game performance. Whakarewarewa touchdowns were met with defiance, with the visitors grabbing three tries, awarded to Craig Edwards, Alomoti Te Pou and Thomas Haney.

The two other top echelon encounters were absolute nail biters with Tauranga Sports and Mount Maunganui getting home by a solitary point apiece. At Blake Park Mount Maunganui provided Chris Elvin with a celebratory present - with Elvin playing his 100th premier club game for the Mount against Opotiki.

Mount Maunganui who held a handy 15-5 lead at the break, had to withstand real pressure from Opotiki, who outscored the winner by thee tries to two. After eighty minutes of pulsating rugby, the scoreboard showed that Mount Maunganui had got home by a solitary point, to take out the match 18-17.

Another real arm wrestle took place at Murray Salt Stadium, where defending Premier titleholders Tauranga Sports, sneaked a one-point victory over Te Puke Sports. After the scores were locked at three apiece at the break, Tauranga Sports grabbed an 11-10 victory.

Te Teko continued their quest for Division One silverware preserving an unbeaten record when they defeated Ngongotaha 58-17. Te Puna cemented second spot in a Western Bay local derby getting past Greerton Marist 23-11, with Kahukura beating Reporoa 24-11.

In a weekend of close encounters, no match was tighter than the top of the table clash in Division Two, between Marist St Michaels and Ruatoki. The 27-26 victory to St Michaels told the story of a game where the advantage changed several times during the encounter.

Judea moved away from the relegation zone, with a hard fought 10-8 win over former Baywide heavyweights Rangiuru, at Maharaia Winiata Park. Eastern Districts and Papamoa battled to a 17 all draw, with Paroa defeating Kawerau 35-3.

In Division Three, Katikati moved a step closer to a Baywide second echelon berth next season, when they beat Matakana Island 25-3, in a top of the table match. Waimana were too good for Murupara posting a 65-3 victory, while Galatea got home from Apanui 26-20.

Ngongataha continue to lead the Colts competition after a 22-5 win over former Baywide champions Tauranga Sports. Te Puke Sports withstood a determined challenge from Opotiki 26-5, with Rotoiti defeating Taneatua 40-12.

Bartercard Baywide Rugby Results 11 July 2009
Premier:
Whakarewarewa 46 (Paula Asaeli 2, Steven Schenk, Himiona Marr, Trent Sweeney, Trent Vatselias, Harold Koia, Pomane Karauria tries; Kelly Haimona 3con) Whakatane Marist 19 (Craig Edwards, Alamoti Te Pou, Thomas Haney tries; Max Bullivant 2con). HT: 29-7.
Rotoiti 15 (Sigfried Fisihoi, Josevata Tawake tries; Whakataki Cunningham pen, Sekeli Bola con) Rangataua 3 (John Ririnui pen). HT: 8-0.
Mount Maunganui 18 (Marty Bourke, Brad Haladoni tries; Sam Jurisich 2 pens con) Opotiki 17 (Dimitri Kurei, Te Rau Kurei, Te Amo Wilbore tries; Sam Howe con) HT 15-5.
Tauranga Sports 11 (Steven Honey try; Eru Haimona 2 pen) Te Puke Sports 10 (Craig Donovan try; Jason Fly pen con) HT 3-3.

Points Table: Whakarewarewa 16, Te Puke Sports 16, Mount Maunganui 15, Tauranga Sports 15, Rangataua 12, Rotoiti 10, Opotiki 9, Whakatane Marist 2.

Division One: Te Teko 58 Ngongotaha 17, Te Puna 23 Greerton Marist 11, Kahukura 24 Reporoa 11, Waikite won by default.

Division Two: Eastern Districts 17 Papamoa 17, Marist St Michaels 27 Ruatoki 26, Judea 10 Rangiuru 8, Paroa 35 Kawerau 3.

Division Three: Katikati 25 Matakana Island 3, Waimana 65 Murupara 3. Galatea 36 Apanui 20, Edgecumbe won by default.

Colts: Te Puna 87 Kahukura 7, Te Puke Sports 26 Opotiki 5, Rangataua 64 Whakatane Marist 14, Whakarewarewa 29 Greerton Marist 15, Waikite 26 Mount Maunganui 23, Rotoiti 40 Taneatua 12, Marist St Michaels 27 Te Teko 5, Ngongotaha 22 Tauranga Sports 5.

For further information contact:
Mike Rogers BOPRU Operations Manager
07 574 2037 ex 106 029 478 4292

TEN BAY PLAYER SELECTED FOR CHIEFS UNDER 18 TEAM

Mon, 13 Jul 2009 09:53:01 +0100

Media Release - 8 July 2009

Further evidence of Bay of Plenty being one of the real nurseries of rugby in New Zealand, has been provided with the selection of the 2009 Chiefs Under 18 team.

Over the years a myriad of players who learnt the game in the Bay of Plenty, have made their mark in top-level rugby. The latest example is 2009 Steamers captain Tanerau Latimer who has recently become the regions latest All Black.

The Chiefs Under 18 team comes from the cream of the secondary school players, from within the Chiefs franchise. The success of the youth player pathways, created a number of years ago by the BOPRU, is shown with the selection of ten Bay players in the Under 18 side. In addition Nick Ross who is from Mount Maunganui but is a boarder at Hamilton Boys High has been selected for the side.

An additional accolade has been the selection of Kaperiere (Papa) Wharewera as captain of the team. The talented half back from Rotorua Boys High, was also selected for the New Zealand Under 17 team this season.

Two former Reporoa College students, who are now attending Tauranga Boys College, have also experienced playing for a National side. Carl Axtens was a member of the National Under 17 team in 2007 and 2008, and last season earned a place in the New Zealand Secondary School team. Open side flanker Sam Cane is a current New Zealand Under 17 selection after also being selected for the National team last year.

The fourth Chiefs Bay selection to have attained NZ Under 17 selection is current Tauranga Boys 1st XV captain Daniel Ross.

One youngster, who has experienced life in the fast lane at the NZRU National Sevens, is Reporoa College utility back Shaun Curry. The talented youngster, who has the ability to slot into several positions in a backline, was a member of the Bay Seven’s team at this year’s National tournament in Queenstown.

Chiefs Under 18 – BOP selections
Kaperiere (Papa) Wharewera – captain (Rotorua BHS) 2009 NZ U17 – half back and captain of Rotorua BHS.
Henry Kershaw (Rotorua BHS) 2008 BOP U18 – loose forward.
Andrew Tuise (Tauranga Boys College) 2008 BOP U18 – wing.
Carl Axtens (TBC) 2007/08 NZ U17, 2008 NZ Secondary Schools – loose forward originally from Reporoa.
Daniel Ross (TBC) 2008 NZ U17 – tight head prop and captain of Tauranga Boys
Fergus McCool (TBC) 2008 BOP U16 - lock
George Doig (TBC) 2008 BOP U18 – lock/loose forward.
Sam Cane (TBC) 2008/09 NZ U 17 – openside flanker originally from Reporoa.
Marnus Hanley (Whakatane HS) 2008 BOP U16 – center.
Shaun Curry (Reporoa College) 2009 BOP Sevens at National Tournament – utility back.

For further information contact:
Mike Rogers BOPRU Operations Manager
07 574 2037 ex 106 029 478 4292

GLEN JACKSON - REFEREE RECRUITMENT 2009

Mon, 13 Jul 2009 09:51:52 +0100

Glen has been recruited as a full-time professional referee commencing July 2010.
Commencing as an “apprentice” professional but with no guarantees.
He first commenced refereeing age grade rugby whilst playing professional rugby for the Chiefs.
Glen has continued to develop his refereeing skills and experience whilst playing professional rugby in the UK for Saracens. Will participate in NZRU Referee Academy Programme.
Glen has been viewed by NZRU High Performance Refereeing personnel and is considered to have the potential, ability and skills to very quickly make the transition to be able to referee at a high level.

REO OPPORTUNITIES/ACTIONS

His transition from playing to refereeing is somewhat unique in that he chose to commence refereeing whilst still playing at the highest level.
It is hoped Premier level club players in NZ will follow Glen’s example and begin refereeing whilst still playing.
In recent years NZ has had only a limited numbers of players taking up refereeing at the conclusion of their playing career.
We need to concentrate on, and promote the positives (top player taking up refereeing) and the opportunities that may arise from this new initiative.
Glen’s transition will provide us with a recruitment enhancement opportunity.
Opportunity to promote refereeing as a pathway that can be commenced while still playing.
Opportunity to encourage Premier club players to follow similar path to Glen.
Opportunity to develop a programme to transition current players into refereeing (Next REO Workshop).
Opportunity to develop/implement Refereeing Familiarisation Workshop/Programme for club players. This can also assist with educating players in the Laws of the Game.

BAY STEAMERS GO CLOSE TO VICTORY

Mon, 13 Jul 2009 09:47:25 +0100

Media Release - 12 July 2009

The Bay of Plenty Steamers began their 2009 campaign under the shadows of Mount Taranaki with a narrow 26-18 loss - when they faced fellow Air New Zealand Cup contenders Taranaki on Friday (10 July 2009).

The match was the first of three preparatory games for the Steamers, before the Air New Zealand Cup starts in earnest on the last day of July.

In a match where all 22 players took to the field during the encounter, ex league player Clinton Toopi scored the opening try for the Steamers.

In what was a arm-wrestle throughout, Himiona Marr grabbed a further touchdown, with McCashin adding a two penalty goals and a conversion. The try by Himiona Marr marked a excellent debut for a youngster that was playing for Rotorua Boys High twelve months ago.

Team management were happy with the first up performance of the Steamers who were without several first choice players. Taranaki had the added benefit of having beaten Manawatu last week.

The game saw several team objectives met, with the side knowing exactly where they are with the Air New Zealand Cup on the horizon.

Next Friday (17 July 2009) the Steamers will play at home for the first time this season when they face Counties Manukau in Whakatane. The last of the warm-up encounters will take place in Tauranga the following Friday, when they meet long time rivals Hawkes Bay.

BOP Steamers v Taranaki Result
Taranaki 26 BOP Steamers 18 (Clinton Toopi, Himiona Marr tries; Nick McCashin 2 pen con)

2009 Steamers Pre-Season Games
17 July v Counties Manukau @ Rugby Park, Whakatane at 3pm.
24 July v Hawkes Bay @ Tauranga at 2pm.

For further information contact:
Sean Horan Steamers Manager
DDI 07 927 1310 029 201 4240

STEAMERS UPDATE - FIRST WEEKLY UPDATE

Tue, 07 Jul 2009 13:11:42 +0100

Media Release - 6 July 2009

STEAMERS UPDATE

Welcome to the first weekly Steamers Update that will be sent out on Monday evening of each game week.

The Steamers Air New Zealand Cup campaign starts this Friday (10 July 2009) afternoon, when the Steamers play the first of their three Air New Zealand Cup preparatory matches.

The purpose of the weekly Steamers Update is to give the media a heads up on the Steamers outside of the weekly game preview and reviews.

This week’s game is against Taranaki in Taranaki before “The Heat Is On” with the Steamers at home for last two pre-season games.

Rugby Park in Whakatane will host the hit-out against Counties Manukau on Friday 17th July 2009, before the final preparatory match in Tauranga the following Friday (24 July 2009) against Hawkes Bay.

This weeks schedule for the Steamers will see a team day off on Tuesday (7 July 2009) - before the week by week rigours of match preparation start on Wednesday. Thursday will see a captains run with travel to Taranaki also on the agenda.

Friday at 3pm is the reality of a long season that stretches until late October - when the 2009 Steamers take to the field of play for the first time this season.

While there are several new recruits in this years Steamers side – none will attract more early attention than former Warrior Clinton Toopi. The former League star brings a ton of top-level football to the Steamers, with 119 games for the New Zealand Warriors, and 14 matches for the Kiwi’s.

2009 Steamers Pre-Season Games
10 July v Taranaki @ Taranaki at 3pm.
17 July v Counties Manukau @ Rugby Park, Whakatane at 3pm.
24 July v Hawkes Bay @ Tauranga at 2pm.

For further information contact:
Sean Horan Steamers Manager
DDI 07 927 1310 029 201 4240

BLEDISLOE CUP TEST CONFIRMED FOR TOKYO

Wed, 01 Jul 2009 13:48:40 +0100

MEDIA RELEASE -30 June 2009

Asia will again be the venue for a fourth Bledisloe Cup Test this year with Japan to host a showdown between the All Blacks and the Wallabies on October 31.

The Japan Rugby Football Union confirmed today at a media conference it will stage the match at the National Stadium in Tokyo – centrepiece of the 1964 Olympic Games and with a capacity of more than 57,000.

The formal announcement follows several months of negotiation between the Japan Rugby Football Union, their commercial agents Dentsu, and the New Zealand and Australian Rugby Unions.

NZRU CEO Steve Tew, in Tokyo for the announcement, said the match was an opportunity to continue to expand rugby in new markets but – importantly – in the current economic environment, was a key revenue opportunity for all three rugby unions.

“Building on the success of the Hong Kong match last year, we have agreed with Australia and our match hosts Japan, to schedule an additional Bledisloe Cup fixture again this year with the dual aim of growing the rugby footprint internationally and securing additional revenue which we can channel into our game in New Zealand.”

The NZRU and ARU were first approached by Japanese Rugby officials during the Bledisloe Cup match in Hong Kong last November, which was the first played outside of Australia or New Zealand.

All Blacks coach Graham Henry said the fixture would add to the rich Bledisloe Cup history and also posed an additional challenge for the All Blacks on their end of year tour.

“The All Blacks have not played in Japan since 1987 so this is a rare opportunity for rugby fans in Japan to see the team, and for the All Blacks and their supporters to go somewhere we have a rugby affinity with, but visit less often.”

The All Blacks played five matches on their 1987 tour of Japan including taking on Japan twice, with one match staged at the National Stadium where this year’s fixture will take place.

The match in Japan will be the fourth of this year’s Bledisloe Cup series. The first three will also be part of the Investec Tri Nations series.

The 2009 Bledisloe Cup series will be played as follows:

July 18: All Blacks v Wallabies – Eden Park, Auckland

August 22: Wallabies v All Blacks – ANZ Stadium, Sydney

September 19: All Blacks v Wallabies – Westpac Stadium, Wellington

October 31: Wallabies v All Blacks – National Stadium, Tokyo

The Bledisloe Cup Test will also kick off the All Blacks’ 2009 end of year tour. The tour dates are as follows:

All Blacks 2009 End of Year Tour:

October 31: v Wallabies – National Stadium, Tokyo

November 7: v Wales – Millennium Stadium, Cardiff

November 14: v Italy – Stadio San Siro, Milan

November 21: v England – Twickenham, London

November 28: v France – Stade Velodrome, Marseilles

December 5: v Barbarians – Twickenham, London

**********

For further information contact:

Brian Finn

Communications Manager

M: 027 229 5380

E: brian.finn@nzrugby.co.nz

BAY HEAVYWEIGHTS BATTLE TO A DRAW

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 10:11:32 +0100

Media Release 21 June 2009

BAY HEAVYWEIGHTS BATTLE TO A DRAW

Round two of the Baywide Bartercard Baywide Premier championship played on Saturday (20. June 2009), showed the intensity of the race to the presentation of the top echelon silverware in August.

At the Tauranga Domain, the two heavyweights of Baywide rugby in the last decade, battled to an 18 all draw. Home side Tauranga Sports and Whakarewarewa were involved in a game that was an arm wrestle throughout.

Through much of the encounter the visitors had a narrow ascendancy, leading 11-7 at the break, and holding a three-point advantage with time up on the clock in the second spell. A Whaka mistake saw Eru Haimona calmly slot the penalty attempt, to see the match finish with shared points.

For Tauranga Sports Heath Haua and Alex Jessup crossed for tries, with Kelly Haimona and Tofu Pomale dotting down for Whaka.

The recent renaissance of Mount Maunganui came to a temporary halt at Blake Park, when Rangataua came to call. The visitors opened the scoring with a try after just six minutes. The Mount reply was a touchdown at the quarter way stage - with a try apiece and a Rangataua penalty, taking the score to 13-10 to Rangataua at the break.

In what is rarely seen in the modern era, the second Rangatua conversion attempt was successfully charged down by the Mount centre.

Rangataua posted seventeen unanswered points in the second spell, taking out the encounter 30-10, and regaining the Jordan Cup (Western BOP Challenge Trophy). Adam McGarvey led the way for the winners with two tries.

At Murray Salt Stadium in Te Puke, the home side posted a solid bonus point win over Opotiki. After a real arm wrestle in the first half, where Te Puke Sports led just 7-3 at the break, they cut loose in the second half to win 40-15. For the victors Josh Harrison and Nick McCashin picked up two tries apiece. Te Puke Sports now sit at the top of the leader board, courtesy of the Whaka and Tauranga Sports draw.

In what was a high scoring encounter at Rugby Park in Whakatane, Rotoiti got their championship aspirations back on track, with a solid 55-22 victory over Whakatane Marist.

Te Teko made their intentions clear in Division One, when they provided Kahukura with their first defeat in Baywide rugby this season. The Eastern Bay side who were unlucky not to make the top echelon championship, proved too strong for the Rotorua side winning 41-10.

In a Western Bay local derby Te Puna at home proved too strong for Arataki winning 30-6 - with Waikite posting their second successive victory, defeating Greerton Marist 30-9. Former Baywide heavyweight Ngongotaha had a real arm wrestle with Reporoa before grabbing a 17-14 win.

Eastern Bay side Ruatoki, who have emerged as genuine Division Two contenders, continued their good form defeating Judea 41-5. Papamoa ran away from Kawerau 51-10, Rangiuru won the Te Puke local derby beating Eastern Districts 20-7, with Marist St Michaels getting past Paroa 14-3.

Two upset results dominated the Colts competition. Ngongotaha who had led point’s table were defeated for the first time this season. losing to Te Puke Sports 20-18 in game that was up for grabs throughout. Opotiki returned home to the Eastern Bay, with the scalp of defending Colts titleholders Mount Maunganui after posting a 14-10 victory.

In other Colts action Whaka had a real battle with Tauranga Sports before emerging victorious 23-18, Rotoiti ran away from Te Teko 46-12 with Waikite, Greerton Marist, and Te Puna all posting victories.

Bay of Plenty Bartercard Baywide Rugby Results 20 June 2009
Premier:
Rangataua 30 (Adam McGarvey 2, Timoti Gardiner, J Cater tries; John Ririnui 2 pens 2 cons) Mount Maunganui 10 (Mata Tukuafa, Steven Wallace tries) HT 13-10.
Te Puke Sports 40 (Josh Harrison 2, Nick McCashin 2, Rameka Poihipi, Jimmy Roberts tries; McCashin 5 pens) Opotiki (J Thompson, M Mafi tries; Sam Howe pen Con) 15 – HT 7-3.
Rotoiti 55 Whakatane Marist 22 (Alamoti Te Pou 2, Jarred Mexted, Kiti Boag tries; Craig Edwards con)
Tauranga Sports 18 (Heath Haua, Alex Jessup tries; Eru Haimona 2pens con) Whakarewarewa 18 (Kelly Haimona, Tofu Pomale tries; Haimona 2pens con) HT 11-7 to Whaka.

Division One: Te Teko 41 Kahukura 10, Te Puna 30 Arataki 6, Ngongotaha 17 Reporoa 14, Waikite 30 Greerton Marist 9.

Division Two: Ruatoki 41 Judea 5, Papamoa 51 Kawerau 10, Rangiuru 20 Eastern Districts 7, Marist St Michaels 14 Paroa 3.

Division Three: Galatea 98 Eastern Pirates 0, Katikati 26 Edgecumbe 5, Waimana 12 Apanui 7, Matakana Island defeated Murupara.

Colts: Waikite 58 Whakatane Marist 0, Whakarewarewa 23 Tauranga Sports 18, Opotiki 14 Mount Maunganui 10, Te Puke Sports 20 Ngongotaha 18, Greerton Marist 63 Taneatua 3, Te Puna 60 Marist St Michaels 17, Rotoiti 46 Te Teko 12, Kahukura won by default.

Senior Reserve
Rotorua
Waikite 24 Taupo7, Whakarewarewa 64 Ngongotaha 13, Kahukura 25 Reporoa 17.
Western BOP
Te Puke Sports 31 Greerton Marist 19, Mount Maunganui 13 Rangataua 10.

For further information contact:
Mike Rogers BOPRU Operations Manager
07 574 2037 ex 106 029 478 4292

TAURANGA DOMAIN TO HOST BAYWIDE SHOWDOWN

Fri, 19 Jun 2009 11:22:47 +0100

Media Release 18 June 2009

The big showdown in the Bartercard Baywide Premier championship this Saturday (20 June 2009), is the clash between defending champions Tauranga Sports, and the 2006 titleholders Whakarewarewa, at the Tauranga Domain.

Both teams posted wins in the first round of the title race last weekend, albeit in contrasting circumstances. The Rotorua heavyweights ran away from Opotiki 45-3 in a six-try victory. A feature of the game was the sharp-shooting kicking of Kelly Haimona who converted all six touch downs

While Tauranga Sports took home four points from Te Ariki Field – there was plenty of relieved players (and supporters) as Tauranga Sports sneaked past Rangataua 20-16, after establishing a seventeen point lead a the break. In a second spell that belonged to Rangataua the home side scored a try, and kicked two penalties and a conversion.

This weekend’s headliner is likely to be a close encounter, with any errors punished with kicks at goal. Tauranga Sports answer to Kelly Haimona is likely to be Alex Jessup who can also boot the ball over the posts from any angle.

Rangataua showed last Saturday they have plenty of resolve in their side, and are likely to give Mount Maunganui a torrid time at Blake Park. The home side have been quietly building all season winning their last five encounters.

At stake this weekend is the Jordan Cup (Western BOP Challenge Trophy), which the Mount took from Tauranga Sports three weeks ago. In one of the upsets in this seasons Baywide competitions - the Mount bounced back from defeat by Whakatane Marist the previous week, to defeat the defending champions 32-18.

In spite of a number of injuries to key players, Te Puke Sports put their cards on the table to suggest that they will again be Baywide semi-finalists, when they defeated Rotoiti in round one. This weekend they host Opotiki in a game that they will be heavily favoured to win. In the Eastern Bay Whakatane Marist will host Rotoiti with the victor putting their first championship points on the board.

There will be plenty of interest in the Division One game at Te Teko between the home side and Kahukura. Te Teko who just missed a place in the Premier top eight, could have their hands full with Kahukura, who posted a unbeaten record in the second echelon qualifying competition.

In other Div One games Reporoa come to town to play Ngongotaha, Waikite and Greerton Marist should have a close contest, with Te Puna and Arataki meeting in a Western Bay local derby.

Last season Division Two champions Paroa, will be desperate for their first points of the championship, when they travel to Rotorua to call on Marist St Michaels. Ruatoki will have the home crowd advantage against Judea, Kawerau travel to Papamoa, while close Te Puke region neighbours Eastern Districts and Rangiuru will be playing for pride.

Two teams who posted big wins in Division Three last weekend, will square off when Katikati host Edgecumbe. Galatea will be at home to Eastern Pirates, Matakana Island will journey to Murupara, with Apanui and Waimana meeting at Te Kaha.

Unbeaten Colts front-runner Ngongotaha could have a good tussle with Te Puke Sports, who have also been in good form. Another good battle is likely between Tauranga Sports and Whakarewarewa.

BOPRU Bartercard Baywide Draws 20 June 2009

Premier (2.45pm)

Division One (2.45pm)
Ngongotaha v Reporoa, Ngongotaha Domain; Waikite v Greerton Marist, Bellvue Road; Te Teko v Kahukura, Dunderdale Park; Te Puna v Arataki, Maramatanga Park.

Division Two (2.45pm)
Ruatoki v Judea, Tuhoe Park; Marist St Michaels v Paroa, Marist Park; Papamoa v Kawerau, Gordon Spratt Reserve; Eastern Districts v Rangiuru, Paengaroa Domain.

Division Three (2.45 unless specified)
Galatea v Eastern Pirates, Galatea Domain; Katikati v Edgecumbe, Moore Park, Murupara v Matakana Island, Ngati Manawa Park; Apanui v Waimana. Te Kaha.

Colts (1pm)
Waikite v Whakatane Marist, Bellvue Road; Whakarewarewa v Tauranga Sports, Puarenga Park; Mount Maunganui v Opotiki, Blake Park; Ngongotaha v Te Puke Sports, Ngongotaha Domain; Greerton Marist v Taneatua, Greerton Park; Te Puna v Marist St Michaels, Maramatanga Park; Kahukura v Rangataua, Kuirau Park; Rotoiti v Te Teko, Emery Park.

For further information contact:
Mike Rogers BOPRU Operations Manager
07 574 2037 ex 106
029 478 4292

BAY OF PLENTY STEAMERS READY FOR ACTION

Fri, 19 Jun 2009 11:16:31 +0100

Media Release - 17th June 09

After nearly three months of Bay of Plenty club rugby, three sub-union series games, and two trial encounters the 2009 Bay of Plenty Steamers have been selected.

Thirteen Air New Zealand Cup games preceded by three pre-season hit-outs, await the 2009 Steamers, in a campaign that will stretch until the end of October.

Head Coach Greg Smith and Assistant Coach Steve Miln have selected a side with plenty of Air New Zealand Cup experience - with eighteen players from last season’s initial selection, named in the 2009 squad.

Tanerau Latimer who has recently earned All Black selection will again captain the side. Last season he was one of the stars of the Air New Zealand Cup with his outstanding loose forward form carried into this years Super 14 series.

While Tanerau Latimer is on All Black duty the stand-in captain will be Joe Savage. The interim skipper who was part of last years rock solid front row, has been in outstanding form for Whakarewarewa in the Bartercard Baywide rugby competition.

A new recruit to the forward pack is ex Waikato representative Ted Tauroa. Samoan international Junior Poluleuligaga is one of the two halfbacks chosen in this season’s initial squad. Former Warrior Clinton Toopi should give additional options to the backline.

Last years first choice number ten Mike Delaney, has been joined by former Rotorua resident Nick McCashin who has returned from Canterbury. Both first fives give an added bonus of being outstanding goal kickers.

Three Friday afternoon pre-season games in July, will lead into the Steamers first Air New Zealand Cup match against Northland on the 31st July 2009, at the Rotorua International Stadium.

2009 Bay of Plenty Steamers
Forwards: Tanerau Latimer - captain (Rangiuru) James McGougan, Marcel Cummings-Toone, Culum Rettalick, Luke Braid (Tauranga Sports) Joe Savage, Matt Vant Leven (Whakarewarewa) Josh Hohneck, Zac Hohneck, Josh Olsen (Rotoiti) John Moore (Ngongotaha) Ted Tauroa, Colin Bourke (Mount Maunganui) John Pareanga (Te Puna) Josh Katene (Te Teko) Solomon King (Te Puke Sports)
Backs: Junior Poluleuligaga (Te Puna) Josh Hall, Phil Burliegh (Tauranga Sports) Mike Delaney, Cory Aporo, Zar Lawrence, Lance MacDonald (Mount Maunganui) Jason Hona (Rangataua) Wayne Hughson (Whakarewarewa) Clinton Toopi (Whakatane Marist) Nick McCashin, Nigel Hunt (Te Puke Sports)
Loan Players - Andre Ellison, Ben Smith
Head Coach: Greg Smith Assistant Coach: Steve Miln Manager: Sean Horan

2009 Steamers Pre-Season Games
10 July v Taranaki @ Taranaki
17 July v Counties-Manukau @ Rugby Park, Whakatane
24 July v Hawkes Bay @ Tauranga Domain, Tauranga

For further information contact:
Mike Rogers BOPRU Operations Manager
07 574 2037 ex 106
029 478 4292

ALL BLACKS NAME TEAM FOR 2ND FRENCH TEST

Fri, 19 Jun 2009 11:08:39 +0100

MEDIA RELEASE
16 June 2009

All Blacks name team for second French Test

Smith and Kaino return to starting XV with Mealamu and Latimer

All Blacks Coach Graham Henry and his Assistant Coaches Steve Hansen and Wayne Smith have named their team to play the second Iveco Series Test against France at Westpac Stadium, Wellington, this Saturday, 20 June.

1. Tony Woodcock
2. Keven Mealamu
3. Neemia Tialata
4. Brad Thorn
5. Isaac Ross
6. Jerome Kaino
7. Tanerau Latimer
8. Kieran Read
9. Jimmy Cowan
10. Stephen Donald
11. Josevata Rokocoko
12. Ma’a Nonu
13. Conrad Smith
14. Cory Jane
15. Mils Muliaina – captain

Reserves:

16. Aled de Malmanche
17. John Afoa
18. Bryn Evans
19. George Whitelock
20. Piri Weepu
21. Luke McAlister
22. Isaia Toeava

Centre Conrad Smith, who has recovered from his hamstring strain, returns to the starting XV, while loose forward Jerome Kaino has recovered from his knee injury and comes into the starting line up at blindside flanker, with Kieran Read moving to number eight.

In other changes from last week’s side, Keven Mealamu starts at hooker, with Andrew Hore suffering from rib cartilage damage, while Tanerau Latimer, who made his Test debut from the bench last week, starts in the number seven jersey, with Adam Thomson out injured with a broken bone in his hand.

The two players called into the All Blacks this week, Waikato and Chiefs rake Aled de Malmanche and Canterbury and Crusaders flanker George Whitelock are on the bench.

All Blacks Coach Graham Henry said: “The return of Jerome and Conrad from injury will be a boost for the guys. The team was disappointed with the way they played in last weekend’s loss to France and are looking forward to making big improvements this week.”

Meanwhile, tickets to the Wellington Test are still available from Ticketmaster (0800 111 999 or www.ticketmaster.co.nz).

********

For further information contact:
Joe Locke
All Blacks Media Manager
P: 04 494 0778
M: 027 441 8461
E: joe.locke@nzrugby.co.nz

STEAMERS TRIAL MATCH POSTPONED

Mon, 15 Jun 2009 11:09:02 +0100

Media Release - 9 June 2009

There has been a change plans in the early season representative games that will lead to the selection of the 2009 Bay of Plenty Steamers.

Due to a number of players coming down with seasonal colds and flu - the trial match scheduled between the BOP Wasps and a BOP XV has been postponed for a week.

The new details are as follows

Game: BOP Wasps v BOP XV
Date: Wednesday 17 June 2009
Venue: Rotorua Boys High School
Time: 3.15pm

The consequence of the postponement is that the BOP Fifteen match against Poverty Bay has been cancelled.

For further information contact:
Mike Rogers BOPRU Operations Manager
07 574 2037 ex 106 029 478 4292

BARTERCARD BAYWIDE CHAMPIONSHIPS KICKING OFF THIS SATURDAY

Tue, 09 Jun 2009 12:30:10 +0100

Media Release 8 June 2009

THE MAIN EVENT KICKS OFF THIS SATURDAY

The main event has arrived in the 2009 Bay of Plenty club rugby competitions, with the first round of the Bartercard Baywide Championships kicking off this Saturday (13 June 2009).

Thirty-two teams will be chasing the four Bartercard Baywide Championship titles that are on the line during the next nine weeks.

All the traditional heavyweights of the last decade will be on show in the Premier Division. Defending champions Tauranga Sports will receive plenty of competition from the 2006 titleholders Whakarewarewa,and Mount Maunganui who annexed the Baywide crown in 2005.

Whakatane Marist have made a return to the top eight this season, after sneaking past Te Teko by two points last weekend. Perennial semi-finalists Te Puke Sports are in the top grade again along with Rotoiti, Rangataua and Opotiki.

Ngongotaha who dominated Baywide rugby in the 1990’s, have regained much of that form in 2009, to look genuine contenders for the Division One championship. However fellow Rotorua side Kahukura, who posted an undefeated record in the qualifying competition, are sure to keep the other contenders honest.

The big mover in recent seasons is Reporoa who have come from Sub-Union club rugby to leap into the Baywide second echelon. Western Bay representatives Arataki, Greerton Marist and Te Puna should all be competitive, with Te Teko who narrowly missed the top eight likely to provide little joy for visitors to Dunderdale Park.

There is always added edge to the Division Two championship, with automatic relegation back to Sub-Union club rugby for the last team. Last years Div Three runner-up Papamoa look a genuine chance to go one better this season. Former Premier heavyweight Rangiuru were unlucky not to make the Div One field, and will certainly make their presence felt.

A surprise package in the section two qualifying competition was Eastern Districts, who won promotion just a couple of weeks before the Baywide first round commenced. The Eastern Bay is well represented with Kawerau, Paroa and Ruatoki, with Judea and Marist St Michaels rounding out the championship contenders.

With a real spread of venues throughout the Bay of Plenty, teams will travel to diverse locations such as Te Kaha (to play Apanui) Matakana Island and Galatea The other sides chasing promotion are Katikati who have returned to Baywide rugby after several years playing in Thames Valley, Eastern Pirates, Edgecumbe, Murupara and Waimana.

Bartercard Baywide Rugby Divisions
Premier
Mount Maunganui, Whakatane Marist, Te Puke Sports, Rotoiti, Rangataua, Tauranga Sports, Whakarewarewa, Opotiki,
Division One
Greerton Marist, Ngongotaha, Waikite, Reporoa, Arataki, Te Teko, Kahukura, Te Puna,
Division Two
Ruatoki, Paroa, Kawerau, Rangiuru, Papamoa, Marist St Michaels, Judea, Eastern Districts,
Division Three
Edgecumbe, Murupara, Katikati, Galatea, Matakana Island, Waimana, Eastern Pirates, Apanui,

Please find attached a copy of the Bartercard Baywide Championship Draw.

For further information contact:
Mike Rogers BOPRU Operations Manager
07 574 2037 ex 106 029 478 4292

JOB VACANCY - BOP SECONDARY SCHOOL GIRLS REP COACH 2009

Thu, 04 Jun 2009 11:19:38 +0100

Bay Of Plenty Rugby is a proud and progressive Rugby Union steeped in history and tradition.

We are seeking to appoint a Head Coach for the Bay Of Plenty Secondary School Girls Representative Team for the 2009 year.

Key Accountabilities include:

Formation of a dependable and passionate management team driven by positive results.
Identification of players.
Meticulous planning and execution of these plans for the 2009 Competitions
A team player that is able to work with other Rep Team coaches and the BOPRU High Performance program to achieve combined success.

For a copy of a job description for any of these positions, please contact Helen Bedford, at Bay of Plenty Rugby on 07 5742037 or email reception@boprugby.co.nz

Applications for these positions close on 17 June, 2009 at 5.00pm. Please enclose a full CV on your coaching history along with two relevant references.

Applications should be sent via email to reception@boprugby.co.nz or post to:
Bay of Plenty Rugby Football Union
PO Box 4058
Mount Maunganui Sth 3149

BAY OF PLENTY WASPS WIN FIRST ENCOUNTER OF THE SEASON

Thu, 04 Jun 2009 11:12:31 +0100

Media Release - 3 June 2009

BAY OF PLENTY WASPS WIN FIRST ENCOUNTER OF THE SEASON

The first Bay of Plenty representative match of the season took place at the Tauranga Domain on Wednesday (3 May 2009) - when a Bay squad playing under the Wasps banner defeated a Harlequins (Waikato) selection. The game was the first step in the selection of 2009 Bay of Plenty Steamers.

With new Steamers Head Coach Greg Smith in charge, the Wasps made the early running when Josh Olsen touched down after five minutes. The next quarter of an hour belonged to the Waikato visitors, who ran in two converted tries to Frank Halai and a penalty goal to lead 17-7.

A penalty try awarded by referee Bryce Lawrence, and the subsequent conversion slotted by Nick McCashin put the Bay selection back into the encounter. A 17-14 lead to the visitors at the half time break, testified to a match that was up for grabs.

The first Bay touchdown after the spell came from a Waikato mistake, which resulted in an eighty metre dash, with Matt Vant Leven finishing off the move to dot down. A McCashin penalty, and a try to former League player Clinton Toopi stretched the Bay advantage.

With ten minutes left on the clock, another Waikato mistake resulted in Kelly Haimona intercepting the ball, to run three quarters of the length of the field to score. A consolation touchdown to the Harlequins saw the match finish with the scoreboard showing a 36-22 victory to the Wasps.

A real feature of the match, was some outstanding defence from the Bay of Plenty representatives, in the second quarter of the first spell. With the visitors holding a ten-point advantage, only some desperate protection of the try line stopped the opposition from cutting loose.

The Steamers selection trials will continue next Wednesday (10 June 2009) when the Wasps play a BOP selection at Rotorua Boys High School. The match at the Rotorua secondary school continues a BOPRU move this season, to play a number of representative matches at grassroots venues.

Results
BOP Wasps 36 (Josh Olsen, penalty try, Matt Vant Leven, Clinton Toopi, Kelly Haimona tries; Nick McCashin 2cons pen, Haimona 2cons) Waikato Harlequins 24 (Frank Halai 2, Eddie Uele tries; Trent Renata 3 cons pen)

For further information contact:
Mike Rogers BOPRU Operations Manager
07 574 2037 ex 106 029 478 4292

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For Further Information Contact
Ross Everiss Bay of Plenty Steamers Manager
0274 487 013