New Zealand meat processor Silver Fern Farms have committed their support to junior rugby in Hawkes Bay helping provide player of the day awards and boot bags.

In a new initiative spearheaded by Silver Fern Farms Pacific located in Hastings will benefit more kids with the HBRU announcing the growth for junior rugby for the 2026 season.

Specially designed boot bags aimed at helping parents store those dirty boots after an exciting game of rugby have been distributed to all clubs throughout Hawkes Bay with each kid receiving a bag. In addition, teams have been provided HBRU and Silver Fern Farm co-branded player of the day certificates and medals for kids to keep and proudly display them for their efforts.

HBRU Commercial Manager Dan Somerville was thrilled to have Silver Fern Farms supporting junior rugby in Hawkes Bay “We were thrilled when Cory reached out with a desire to support grassroots rugby. Having kids that play myself I had seen first-hand how their efforts being acknowledged for a game can bring so much pride so having something to take home and show family and friends is a great addition to the junior rugby experience”

Cory Hogg, Regional Operations Manager for Silver Fern Farms said, “At Silver Fern Farms, we’re proud to support the communities we live and work in, and junior rugby plays such an important role in bringing young people together, building confidence, teamwork, and resilience. Seeing kids recognised for their efforts and achievements on the field is something really special, and we’re delighted to be able to contribute to that experience for Hawke’s Bay rugby families. Grassroots sport is at the heart of our communities, and we’re excited to help support the next generation both on and off the field.”

Hawkes Bay Rugby Junior Rugby Manager Clare Stubbs has been busy planning and delighted that junior rugby season has kicked off with 10 extra teams added from last season with new players still registering to play at local clubs. The HBRU is yet to get finalized season numbers but thrilled to see an influx of kids wanting to play.

“We’ve been really encouraged by the growth in junior rugby across Hawke’s Bay this season, with more teams, more players, and great energy returning to our clubs each week. Junior rugby is about much more than just the game itself - it’s about connection, confidence, friendships, and community” Stubbs added “Support from Silver Fern Farms helps us continue creating a positive experience for our tamariki and whānau, and it’s often those small touches, whether it’s recognising effort through player of the day awards or something as simple as a boot bag, that help young players feel valued, connected, and excited to keep coming back each week.”

Part of the success has been moving non-contact rugby to Friday nights which enables kids wanting to play rippa rugby the chance to play other sports over the weekend and parents who juggle multiple venues the opportunity to more easily manage the congestion of Saturday mornings.

“Thanks to all those coaches, volunteers, committee members and referees that have put their hands up to assist with junior rugby” Stubbs added “You help make a difference in molding our players and provide the great experience that is kids sport”  

Article added: Wednesday 13 May 2026