The Bay of Plenty Toa (U19s) will have plenty of mentoring experience to guide them through this years  U19 Northern Region Competition, says Head Coach, John Haynes-Dodd.

John comments, “Im really happy with the support around the team this year. Having mentors with provincial and International experience will help hugely as we head into a tough competition”.

Chris Elvin (Defence Coach) Is an experienced Premier Coach with the Mount Marlins guiding them to a Premier Title in 2022. Aside from his significant playing and coaching experience, Chris Builds strong connections with his players and enhances culture within a team environment. Passionate on the defensive side of the ball and has a lot of experience as a former loose forward for the Mount and as BOP Steamer and 7s player.

Jamie Cudmore (Forwards Coach). Jamie is a hugely experienced professional player (lock) who has captained Canada, played at 4 Rugby World Cups and over 200 games for Clermont in France. Jamie has also coached in France, Canada. His knowledge of forward play especially will be a real asset to this young team.

John continues on the Toa season, “I'll just say how good it is to have a meaningful competition for this campaign after the last two years only playing 2-3 games. We first assemble on the 8^th May, training once a week through the remainder of the club season. Two pre season games vs Manawatu & King Country Development will help bring the team together and get some much needed match practise prior to the competition proper”.

John continues, “Our competition includes 6 games against Northern Region Provincial U19 sides from Taranaki to Northland. The first game on the 12^th August vs Taranaki will be a tough one but a game we are looking forward to”.

The final will involve the top 2 teams at the completion of the round robin.

Home games include:

vs Counties (26^th August @ the TGA Domain)

vs Auckland (17^th September @ Rotorua International Stadium - Curtain Raiser to Steamers v Wellington)

Toa Team  Management

Article added: Wednesday 10 May 2023