TIGERS CELEBRATE 30TH ANNIVERSARY OF LEGENDARY FOX MEMORIAL WINS


The Northcote Tigers recently marked the 30th anniversary of their historic four-peat, consecutive Fox Memorial Premierships from 1991 to 1994 with a fantastic reunion.

 

Organised by Mike Phillips & Troy Stewart, the event brought together past players, coaches, team management and loyal supporters for a weekend filled with great banter, wonderful memories and rugby league spirit. In the early '90s, the Northcote Tigers dominated the Auckland Rugby League scene, clinching four straight Fox Memorial titles—a feat that, to this day remains unmatched. Their success was built on a solid junior base and bolstered by standout players and strategic leadership. 

 

Names like Sean Hoppe, Tony Tuimavave, Paddy Tuimavave, Paul Rauhihi, and Jason Lowrie to name a few who went on to achieve higher rugby league honours. These legends, along with quality coaches of this era that included Graham Norton, Gary Kemble & David Harding made the Tigers a force to be reckoned with. The team’s success led to various Tigers coaching staff being appointed to coach & manage NZ National teams and for a significant number of players, national representative honours and for some, opportunities to play the great game of league overseas. 

 

Mike Phillips, who played during those glory years and earned the nickname "Dizzy" from Mike McLennan, was the mastermind behind the reunion. Reflecting on the journey, Mike said, "In 2019, we celebrated the 1989 victory. We had about 14 /15 players attend this reunion. Losing teammates like Mike McLennan, Richie McIntosh & Anthony Phillips gave us even more reason to do a big reunion for the 1991-1994 teams." The 1991-1994 reunion saw an impressive turnout, with approximately 60-70 people in attendance, including players who travelled from overseas to join in the celebrations.

 

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