Canterbury Rugby’s announcement of its Under 19 Rep squad for 2020 is a sign of things to come, as well as their ability to adapt to evolving situations. 

Unfortunately, due to the uncertainty around Covid-19, the Jock Hobb Memorial Tournament, which Canterbury won in 2019, was cancelled earlier this year.

However, with the intention to build on its long, proud history and continue to develop players for the future, the 2020 Canterbury U19 side will suit up in a “Game of three halves” v Canterbury Maori and Canterbury B, Tasman Maori in Hanmer, Otago U19 at Pleasant Point, and Tasman B in Murchison. 

“The campaign presents some interesting and intriguing challenges because of Covid-19,” said Coach Simon Kneebone.

“But as a group we are immensely appreciative that we have the opportunity to showcase the awesome potential and skill that the group has.”

“As a coaching group we are highly motivated to challenge the squad around skillset, game awareness, challenge them to develop different parts to their games, and encourage and influence them as rugby players striving to play at higher levels.” 

PLAYER                              CLUB

Ben Lopas                           Christchurch

Jack Sexton                         Lincoln University

George Bell                          Lincoln University

Clayden Paranihi                  Linwood

Harrison Dakin                     Lincoln University

Kenneth Singleton               Canterbury University

Seb Calder                           Lincoln University

Tadeo Andriani                     New Brighton

Zach Gallagher                     Burnside

Daniel Johnson                     Lincoln University

Harri Langworthy                  Sumner

Blair Ryall                             Sydenham

Corey Kellow                        Lincoln University

Mitch Cox                             Sumner

Joe Brial                               Lincoln University

Charlie Murray                     Lincoln University

Max Hughes                        Sydenham

Max Goulter                         Canterbury University

Ollie Lewis                           Sumner

Shun Miyake                        Canterbury University

Wil Gualter                           Waihora

Keegan McGregor                Linwood

Nick Karton                           Lincoln University

Kynan Stowers Smith           Shirley

Dominic Clarke                     Lincoln University

Eto Banivalu                         New Brighton

Mattheus Pio                        Lincoln University

Mason Milham                     Lincoln University

Rocky Netaleni Taufateau    Prebbleton

Blair Murray                         Canterbury University

Brian Lealiifano                    Lincoln University

GAMES 

Game of three halves v Canterbury Maori and Canterbury B , 26 September Burnside Park

Tasman Maori – October 3, 12.30pm, Hanmer Rugby Club

Otago U19 – October 10, 12 noon, Pleasant Point Rugby Club

Tasman B – October 17, 12.30pm, Murchison Rugby Club 

Article added: Tuesday 22 September 2020