Oamaru was buzzing with excitement over the weekend as it hosted nine teams competing the 2024 NZ Warriors South Island 16s Tournament.

In the 16s girls grade, participation saw a remarkable increase from the previous year, with the addition of Aoraki and Otago to the mix. Canterbury emerged as a dominant force early on, securing decisive victories against both Aoraki and Otago on the first day. The reigning champions were tested on day two however, narrowly edging out Southland 12-16 in a gripping contest. The final proved to be another nail-biter, with Canterbury holding out a strong Otago team to win 16-0, earning them the Tessa Te Kahu Trophy for 2024.

The 16s boys grade featured full district representation this year, with five teams vying for the Lewis Brown Trophy. The tournament format meant that there were no traditional finals; instead, the team at the top of the table at the end of the round-robin matches was crowned champion.

Southland showcased their prowess on the opening day, notching a win against West Coast and coming tantalizingly close to defeating Canterbury 15s in a thrilling encounter that ended 14-14. Otago came in hot to day two, securing two strong victories, but their efforts fell just short of surpassing Canterbury 15s, who ultimately claimed the Lewis Brown Trophy for 2024. West Coast demonstrated commendable spirit throughout the tournament, while Aoraki made a commendable debut in their first year of participation in the 16s boys grade. 

Overall, the tournament was a testament to the burgeoning talent across the South Island and set a high standard for future competitions. Congratulations to all players and team staff for an outstanding weekend of rugby league, and to Canterbury 16s Girls and Canterbury 15s Boys for their well-earned victories.

A huge thank to our sponsors the NZ Warriors, Whitestone Contracting Limited, Subway Oamaru and our funders Aotearoa Gaming trust and the Waitaki District Council for their support.

The Scorpions 16s Boy's and Girls' squads will be named this week as they begin preparations for the National Youth Tournament. 

Congratulations to those who recieved awards. 

Coach of the Tournament: Taua Piri (Otago) 

Trainer of the Tournament: Mike Garrick (Southland)

Manager of the Tournament: Brooke Raymond (Canterbury) 

Referee of the Tournament: Micah Lepou (Canterbury) 

16s Boys MVP: Justin Talalima-Wineti (Otago)

16s Girls MVP: Tayla Eckersley (Canterbury) 

Good Person Good Player 16s Boys Team of the Tournament: West Coast

Good Person Good Player 16s Girls Team of the Tournament: Aoraki

Lewis Brown Trophy Winners: Canterbury 15s Boys 

Tessa Te Kahu Trophy Winners: Canterbury 16s Girls 

Article added: Monday 26 August 2024