The Ross Shield, Hawke’s Bays iconic primary schools rugby tournament will have a new naming rights sponsor this year for the first time in approximately 4 decades. The competition was started in 1902 by Napier businessman and keen sports enthusiast J A Ross and it’s estimated that at some stage during the 1980’s Sir James Wattie himself signed on as the initial sponsor of the competition which has stood ever since.

Watties notified the Hawke’s Bay Rugby Union this season that they unfortunately will no longer be able to support the tournament with sponsorship. The HBRU who help facilitate the sponsorship for tournament organisers Hawke’s Bay Primary Schools Rugby didn’t take long to find a new partner who were keen to continue the rich traditions of the tournament and same impact that participation has had on thousands of families over many years.

Advanced Plumbing Drainage and Gas have signed on to be the new naming rights sponsor for the tournament for the next 5 years and see it as a great opportunity to contribute to the community which has helped their business grow into one of the most respected plumbing, drain laying and gas installation companies in Hawke’s Bay.

Mark Watkins, Director of Advanced Plumbing, Drainage and Gas was thrilled for the opportunity to partner with Ross Shield. We The Advanced team are super excited to be part of “The Shield Tournament” this Iconic Event brings so many of our Hawkes Bay People together to enjoy and participate in the Tournament, looking forward to seeing all the supporters there over the week cheering on the Teams.

HBRU Commercial Manager was delighted to have found a new sponsor “We didn’t have to look far for a new partner and knowing Mark, his team and Advanced Plumbing’s company values and reputation we knew they would be a great fit for the tournament”. “Their desire to be involved and having some connections to teams will hopefully make involvement even more special for all participants”

The 2024 tournament will be held at Central Park in Waipukurau from Tuesday 1^st until Saturday 5^th October and will feature the 5 traditional teams of Wairoa, Dannevirke, Hastings East, Hastings West, Central Hawke’s Bay and 2023 winners Napier.

Hawke’s Bay Primary Schools Chairman Mark Gifkins was delighted to have Advanced Plumbing on board to support, "We are thrilled to welcome Advanced Plumbing as the new major sponsor of the Hawke's Bay Ross Shield Rugby Tournament. This partnership marks an exciting chapter in the history of the tournament, which has long been a cornerstone of primary school rugby in our region. Advanced Plumbing's commitment to supporting grassroots sports aligns perfectly with the values of the Ross Shield, where we aim to nurture young talent, foster teamwork, and build a strong sense of community.

With the support of Advanced Plumbing, we are confident that this year's tournament will continue to provide an exceptional platform for our young athletes to showcase their skills and passion for the game. Their sponsorship will not only enhance the experience for our players but also for the schools, families, and supporters who are the backbone of this event.

We look forward to a successful partnership with Advanced Plumbing and to seeing the positive impact of their contribution on the future of Hawke's Bay rugby." Gifkins added.

ADVANCED PLUMBING ROSS SHIELD GAME SCHEDULE 2024

Tuesday 1st October 
1pm Central HB vs Hastings West
2pm Napier vs Wairoa
3pm Hastings East vs Dannevirke

Wednesday 2nd October (Cup Day)
1pm Napier vs Dannevirke
2pm Central HB vs Wairoa
3pm Hastings East vs Hastings West

Thursday 3rd October 
1pm Central HB vs Napier
2pm Hastings East vs Wairoa
3pm Dannevirke vs Hastings West

Friday 4th October 
1pm Central HB vs Dannevirke 
2pm Napier vs Hastings East
3pm Hastings West vs Wairoa

Saturday 5th October 
11am Napier vs Hastings West
12pm Dannevirke vs Wairoa
1pm Central HB vs Hastings East 

Article added: Friday 13 September 2024