Known for developing young talent into future rugby stars, the Hawke's Bay Under 20s Academy continues to uphold its reputation this year. Over the last month the boys have been hard at work, sharpening their skills for their upcoming tournament against both the Manawatu and Wellington under 20 sides.

With back to back games scheduled over two weekends, the team is nearly at full strength for the upcoming fixtures. The only injury concern is tighthead prop Maiti Leef, who is sidelined due to ACL surgery. The first match takes place this Saturday, 8th February, at Massey University in Palmerston North, followed by the second on 15th February at the same venue.

The team will compete in two games of three halves, one third against Wellington, and the next third against Manawatu. The matches will determine the winner of the Sam Doyle Memorial Trophy, named after a former Hurricane who tragically passed away. Wellington was victorious last season, but this Hawke’s Bay team is determined to bring some silverware back to the bay.

Manager and coach of the development side Ellery Wilson is happy with the progress the team has made in the short time since training began. “The first few sessions focused on getting the boys match ready, building fitness levels, and reinforcing key skills such as tackling, cleanouts, ball carrying, and catch and pass drills. I’m looking forward to some competitive games against both Manawatu and Wellington”.

The stakes are high for these matches, as not only is silverware on the line Hurricanes U20 head coach Darren Larsen will be watching closely. Larsen is scouting standout performers across the three provinces to select players for the upcoming U20 Super Rugby competition kicking off on 16th March in Taupō. One player who has already made the leap is star first five Will Cole. A Hawke's Bay prospect from Havelock North and former Rathkeale College student, Cole has been called into the Hurricanes squad ahead of the Super Rugby season.

It is an exciting time for the next generation of Under 20s rugby players representing Hawke’s Bay.

T

eam:

Kelepi Tuakalau (Loosehead) Jericho Wharehinga (Hooker)  Kyan Ward (Loosehead, Tighthead)  Zach Taulapapa (Lock) Riley Thompson (Lock) Oscar Ritchie © (Blindside) Perez Malo (Openside) Patrick Mauga (No.8, Loosehead) Le’Sharn Reiri-Paku (Halfback) Luke Thomas (First Five) CJ Mienie (Wing, Centre) Sio Folau (12) Sunia Ragede (12,13) Mokau Lambert (Wing, Fullback) Bogi Kikau (Fullback)

Reserves: Troy Thomas (Hooker) Membrenz Tahu (Tighthead) [Empty] Tori Randell (Lock, 6) Kane Ngawhare (Lock, 6) Metu Manase (Openside, No.8) Zavier Dunn (Halfback) Jaziah Symons (12, 13) Charlie Nash (Wing) Walter Kava (Wing, Fullback)

Corban Boyd

Article added: Friday 07 February 2025