Palmerstonian 2017

PLAYER PROFILES depicted this in every meeting, training Sam Stewart
Micheal Ioane or game. An excellent lineout operator, Sam is a coach’s dream. With minimal
A big, strong prop who covers both outstanding ball carrier and tough fuss, he will do anything the team needs
sides of the scrum very effectively. defender were part of Tyler’s armoury. of him and play any position. His skill set,
His fitness improved immensely and A huge prospect for 2018, watch this fitness and drive saw him fill many roles
was never bettered at scrum time. An space. (1 try) for us this year and he was an invaluable
excellent lineout lifter who showed member of the team. (3 tries)
strong defence and ball carrying ability. Greg Shaw
A quiet young man who helped lead An outstanding and passionate team man James Stratton
through his actions as a second year who could be relied upon on and off the James is an exceptionally powerful
player. field. Greg would enter play and bring a athlete who can win games with his
level of energy to the pack. Strong carries attack and defence. He worked massively
Flyn Yates and a reliable throw were assets Greg on his passing throughout the year and
A Year 12 player and exciting prospect brought to the field. he utilised it through the season. His
for 2018, Flyn brought an excellent understanding of the work ethic required
work ethic to this team. A big off-season Gus Robertson improved as the year progressed and he
saw him bulk up and enabled him to Gus is a set piece specialist who performs was rewarded with selection not only
make his mark in the white jersey. A his core roles in outstanding fashion. An into the New Zealand Barbarians squad,
strong ball carrier on the edge and absolute workhorse who loves the tough but also in the 2018 Turbos squad. (6
excellent scrummaging hooker were stuff and can be relied upon to give 100%, tries)
characteristics of his game. Not scared whether starting or coming on from the
to get in to the dark places either. bench. Will be an essential cog in the Ethan Helu-Makasini
Continued work on the lineout required 2018 machine. Ethan was a powerful player who had
to further his game. very good field speed. He started the
Usaia Fonongoloa season on the wing, but filled the centre
Rawiri Chambers Had a few hiccups with injury, however, position as the season progressed. His
An excellent trainer and thinker of the when fit Usaia made his presence felt. defensive strength came to the fore here
game, Rawiri would always speak up and Worked hard to improve his scrummaging and he formed an effective combination
share ideas or ask questions. This helped and was a beast with the ball in hand and with James and Stewart. (1 try)
him with clarity in his role and he took his on defence. Usaia is a player to watch in
opportunities when presented. A strong 2018 with his dynamic play. Ruben Love
and aggressive ball carrier and defender, Ruben is an exceptionally gifted player,
Rawiri always made his presence felt. He Harry Newman with fantastic evasion and great vision.
worked on his scrummaging and was an An asset to the team, possessing He has an exceptional work ethic and
effective lineout operator. something that cannot be coached – trains all aspects of his games. He had a
height. An exceptional jumper at the season blighted with injury, but finished
Alec Odell front of the lineout and always brave it with glimpses of what he is capable
One of the ‘bigs’ in our pack, Alec was a on the carry and when defending. With of. (2 tries)
reliable and hardworking player. His bulk continued off-season work, Harry will be
helped at scrum time and he loved to another one to watch next season. Jacob Hewetson-Talamaivao
smash rucks. His lineout work improved Jacob has exceptional skills and his
as the season progressed, as did his ball Jack Sturmey footwork is freakish. He can explode
carry. A good season for Alec who could Another athletic forward who was in a game, whether playing at halfback
be relied upon to do his core jobs well. reliable, whether starting or coming from or fullback and, at times this year, was
the bench. He was an excellent lineout untouchable. Jacob won us games with
Jamie Tinetti practitioner, often beating opposition his skills and shows that little men with
A very versatile player who had a very with his speed. In general play, Jack could pace and quick feet have a definite place
strong 2017 season. Whether on the side carry well past the advantage line and in this game.
of the scrum or at lock, you knew what look for the offload.
you were going to get from Jamie. 100% Will Treder
effort and intensity into everything. He Michael Halatuituia Will made huge strides this year and was
was a calm head and strong voice in a A big player with some great plays in the a reliable defender on the wing. He has
young team. An outstanding team man. 2017 season. Michael was a good team a massive engine and covered a lot of
man who showed the ability to carry territory. He is an evasive runner with
James Woodmass strongly and beat defenders from the good speed off the mark and will be an
A returning player who did his core jobs scrum or in general play, often setting the important member of the team next year
well. A good defender, strong ball carrier platform for further strikes. with continuing development.
and a nuisance for opposition teams at
the breakdown. James worked well with Bryn Wilson Jackson Scully
and complemented his‘twin’, and added A very skilful halfback, with a kicking Jackson was an outstanding team man
value in games when coming on off the game of both feet and a strong passing who covered many positions throughout
bench. (2 tries) game. Started the season slowly but, the year, including blind side flanker. He
by the end of it, was one of the form is a strong carrier of the ball, with a useful
Mackenzie Tansley halfbacks in New Zealand. Has a natural offload and is good at the breakdown.
As a returning player, big things were intelligence and understanding of the He has surprising pace for a big man and
expected of Mackenzie. When he was game and will be a massive influence worked hard to develop his skills through
on, he was on. He was a strong defender next season. (1 try) the year. (2 tries)
and player who loved going into the
dark places. On numerous occasions, Stewart Cruden (Co-Captain) Korie Winters
he would pop out of these dark places Had a massive year of leadership Korie is a deceptive runner with superb
with the ball, as a turnover or to score development as he led a young team footwork and an eye for a break.
a try. Excellent with ball in hand and through some difficult times. As a result, His understanding of his positional
when a big play was required, he led by his form, by his own high standards, hit requirements improved as the year
his actions in this young team. (5 tries) a flat patch. His work ethic during this progressed and this will stand him in
time was inspirational however and he good stead next year.
Tyler Laubscher (Co-Captain) was instrumental in the upturn in results
An exciting second year player, who during the latter half of the year. He is an Darel Lander
was named as Co-Captain as a Year exceptionally skilled player with an acute Darel developed his skills well through
12 student. Tyler understood what it awareness of the game and was rewarded the year and made a number of
meant to wear the white jersey and with selection in the New Zealand important appearances from the bench.
Maori U18 team. (1 try, 16 conversions, He is a deceptively strong defender and
6 penalties) was very good at the breakdown in the
wide channels.

2017 THE PALMERSTONIAN | 249

250 | THE PALMERSTONIAN 2017

RUGBY 2ND XV
Back Row: Bryn Gordon, Harlow Apiata, Jack Nesdale, Mitch Leach, Tamati Ruawai, Carson Hepi
3rd Row: Jack Harris, Xavier Reuben, Joshua Maoate, Darius Mafile’o, Cail Terry, Thomas Taylor-Brock
2nd Row: Mr S. McFarlane (Coach), Mr S. Davidson (Coach), Trevor-Shane Baker, Israel Young-Eparaima, Dion Tafa, Dion
Poynton, Tremaine Thompson-Ashford, Mr D. Turnock (Coach)
Front Row: Matthew Oldridge, Soane Fakahau, Darel Lander, Tom Finlay, Korie Winters, Max Harris, Jardyn Tamati
Absent: Thomas Ellmers-Ropitini

SECOND XV PNBHS were wary of the GBHS fightback and came out firing
in the second half. Some strong carries in the mid-field and
Coaches: Mr D. Turnock, Mr S. Davidson good work at the breakdown saw Jardyn Tamati score in the
corner, before an excellent kick chase forced an error and
Manager and Trainer: Mr S. McFarlane Jardyn was in for his second. A good run from Darius Mafileo
created a chance for Israel Young to score, before a kick
In 2017, the PNBHS 2nd XV elected to compete in both through from Carson Hepi was pounced on by Mitch Leach.
the Super 8 competition and the Manawatu Premier 1
competition. This required the boys to play 25 games in the GBHS were visibly tiring and, with their tails up, the PNBHS
season, which would test their physical and mental strength. forwards kept coming. Some strong carries from Bryn Gordon
and Tamati Ruawai again saw PNBHS camped in the GBHS 22.
SUPER 8 Mitch Leach capitalised on a GBHS error and powered over
Gisborne Boys’ High School – Win – 60-0 for his second, before some quick recycling created space
The 2nd XV travelled to Gisborne to play the GBHS 2nd XV out wide and Jack Harris put Leauga away for his second.
in the first round of their Super 8 campaign. With heavy rain
falling, a forward tussle was on the cards. Straight from the This was a very good team performance in testing conditions
kick-off, the PNBHS forwards got onto the front foot with and an excellent way to start the team’s Super 8 campaign.
some strong carries and good work at the breakdown. This
lead to a break and a pass from Xavier Reuben which put Hastings Boys’ High School – Loss – 36-0
Tom Finlay over for the first try. More pressure came as the The 2nd XV travelled to Hastings for the second round of
big PNBHS forwards dominated the early exchanges and, their Super 8 campaign in a confident mood following their
despite missing an easy penalty, a second try arrived courtesy strong start to the season.
of Jack Nesdale from a quick ‘pick and go’.
Unfortunately, a slow start from our 2nd XV allowed
True to form, GBHS rallied. They attacked the PNBHS line with Hastings to seize the initiative and a poor kick from PNBHS
intensity and determination. Some excellent PNBHS defence was pounced on by Hastings, who finished superbly for a
held them at bay and then managed to turn the ball over. 5-0 lead. To their credit, PNBHS rallied and the rest of the
It was swiftly shifted to Leauga Talamavaio who ran 90m to first half see-sawed. The PNBHS forwards applied pressure
score. This seemed to deflate GBHS and some excellent play which resulted in two penalties, both of which were missed,
from PNBHS saw Jack Sturmey make a break, before the ball while at the other end some good scrambling defence held
was shifted infield for Bryn Gordon to crash over. Half-time the impressive Hastings backs. Half-time score was 5-0 to
score 26-0 to PNBHS. Hastings.

2017 THE PALMERSTONIAN | 251

PNBHS turned at half-time, confident that if we could stick pressure in the PNBHS 22 and they were rewarded with a
to our plan then we were still in the game. Another slow try for a 12-8 half-time lead.
start saw further pressure applied and a poor kick was
again punished for 10-0. The PNBHS forwards began to An early penalty in the second half saw Tauranga BC extend
carry strongly and go through the phases, but the Hastings their lead to 15-8. An injury then forced a reshuffle in the
defence remained resolute. From a turnover, Hastings PNBHS back line. Tauranga BC took advantage of this, with
scored their third try for 17-0, before a poor defensive effort kicks in behind causing serious issues. Tauranga BC were
allowed them in for their fourth try and 24-0. PNBHS were rewarded with two tries and took the lead to 27-8.
now chasing the game and forcing passes, and two more
errors saw the score blow out to 36-0. PNBHS showed great spirit and the forwards took the game
to their Tauranga BC counterparts, led by Darius Mafileo, Kolo
This was a very disappointing performance around the Tavake & Soane Fakahau. PNBHS were rewarded with a try
accuracy of the 2nd XV’s execution, both on attack and to Thomas Ellmers-Ropotini to reduce the deficit to 27-15.
defence, and there was much work needed before the third
round. PNBHS came back again and, after a number of phases,
Soane Fakahau crashed over and it was 27-22. A deep kick
Hamilton Boys’ High School - Loss - 43-0 left PNBHS 85m to go with time up. However, the forwards
The PNBHS 2nd XV played host to Hamilton BHS, keen to now had their tails up and they tore into the Tauranga BC
bounce back after their defeat to Hastings. The game started line. A penalty on the 22 was tapped by Matty Oldridge and
at a fast and furious pace, with both teams giving as good Kolo Tavake looked to have scored the match winner, but
as they got in both attack and defence. Unfortunately for lost the ball in contact and PNBHS were defeated 27-22.
PNBHS, too many missed tackles were giving Hamilton
the opportunity to go forward with the ball and, despite Rotorua Boys’ High School – Win – 8-7
scrambling well, PNBHS found themselves under pressure. PNBHS entertained Rotorua BHS in the resumption of their
Super 8 campaign. As they had picked up a couple of good
From a 5m scrum, Hamilton shifted the ball wide and a poor wins recently from other interschool fixtures, the 2nd XV
read on defence allowed the Hamilton winger time and went into the game confident of getting a result.
space to score the first points for a 7-0 lead. Again, the game
was a relatively even battle until, on the half-time hooter, A strong start saw PNBHS applying pressure and they
some good interplay from the Hamilton mid-field created were rewarded with a penalty to Jack Harris and an early
space for the open side to score and a 12-0 half-time lead. 3-0 lead. PNBHS were playing intelligent rugby, turning
Rotorua around and dominating territory. Having gained
The second half started poorly, with a disappointing kick off field position, PNBHS built phases and a good pass from Max
reception gifting Hamilton possession. Time and time again, Harris put Israel Young in space and he fended a ‘would-be’
Hamilton BHS were able to build numerous phases and tackler before giving a nice pass for Harlow Apiata to score in
stretch the PNBHS defence. They used their big ball carriers the corner. PNBHS controlled the rest of the first half, helped
effectively, building pressure, and missed tackles by PNBHS by carries from Trevor-Shane Baker, Bryn Gordon and Cail
compounded the issues. Terri, but poor discipline and simple errors prevented them
from adding to their score. Half-time 8-0.
This pressure was rewarded as Hamilton ran in a further five
tries after dominating the second half for a final score of 43-0. Early errors gave Rotorua an opportunity in the PNBHS 22,
and some good attack saw them create space and score in
New Plymouth Boys’ High School - Loss – 34-20 the corner to reduce the deficit to 8-7. From this point, PNBHS
A slow start gave NPBHS an early try. Back came PNBHS and seized the initiative. They dominated the field position with
they were rewarded with a penalty to Jack Harris. A poor some intelligent kicking and some good attack, and were
error gifted NPBHS another try and PNBHS were down 10-3. unlucky not to add to their score. However, with only a few
minutes remaining and Rotorua beginning to throw the
Poor defence allowed NPBHS to score an easy try, extending ball around, the game was in the balance. However, superb
their lead to 17-3 and left PNBHS struggling. Good character defence, led by Mitch Leach, Isaiah Sua and Israel Young, saw
saw some strong carries from Dion Poynton and Soane PNBHS hold Rotorua BHS out for an 8-7 win.
Fakahau to put PNBHS on the front foot and Soane crashed
over to reduce the deficit to 17-10. However, at this point Napier Boys’ High School – Loss – 21-15
the PNBHS players seemed to switch off defensively and The 2nd XV hosted their Napier counterparts, knowing a
they allowed NPBHS to score three quick tries to blow the win could see them finish fourth in the Super 8 competition.
half-time score out to 34-10.
From the kick-off, Napier got in to their work, securing quick
Following on from the two defeats against Hastings and ruck ball and stretching the PNBHS defence from side to
Hamilton, this was a severe test of character for our 2nd XV. side. Napier were controlling the field position and the
They responded with the forwards taking the game to their possession, and only some desperate defence kept them
NPBHS counterparts in the second half, led superbly by Dion scoreless. Gradually, PNBHS worked their way back into
Poynton and Soane Fakahau.They threw themselves through the game. Unfortunately, a forced pass was intercepted by
the NPBHS defensive line and were rewarded with a second Napier to give them the lead their start deserved. Napier
try to Soane and maybe should have scored more. were soon back on the attack. Their forwards were dominant
at the breakdown and this was putting them on the front
Unfortunately, the poor end to the first half left the boys too foot. Again, strong defence held them at bay and PNBHS
much to do but they can be proud of their second half efforts. were rewarded with a penalty to Jack Harris to reduce the
deficit. Back came Napier and, after a series of phases, they
Tauranga Boys’ College – Loss – 27-22 crashed over to extend the lead to 14-3. The PNBHS forwards
The 2nd XV travelled to Tauranga to take on the Tauranga rallied and charged into the Napier 22. After a series of strong
BC 2nd XV in the Super 8 competition. The game started carries, a quick tap saw space created out wide for Thomas
well, with the PNBHS forwards forcing an early penalty and Ellmers-Ropotini to crash over in the corner. A sideline
a 3-0 lead. A charge down allowed Tauranga BC back into conversion from Jack Harris made it 14-10 at the break.
the game, before a try to Usaia Fonongoloa put PNBHS back
in front 8-5. Another error allowed Tauranga BC to apply

252 | THE PALMERSTONIAN 2017

PNBHS turned into the wind, knowing it would require a This seemed to shock PNBHS and another error allowed
mammoth effort to pull this game out. The PNBHS forwards Blackrock to score their second long range try and PNBHS
were fired up and started to get to grips with their opposition. found themselves 14-0 down. Huge character was shown
Strong carries made in-roads but Napier were using the and they fought their way back into the game and were
wind well and turning them around, making them run out rewarded with a try on half-time to Kolo Tavake. Half-time
of their own 22. For 20 minutes, the game was a stalemate, score 5-14.
with both teams giving and asking no quarter and a tight
finish threatened. A poor read of defence proved decisive as Playing into the wind into the second half would make it a
Napier took full advantage for their third try and a 21-10 lead. very difficult proposition, but the PNBHS forwards rolled up
Undeterred, PNBHS showed huge character and went back their sleeves and got into their work. Some strong carries
on attack. A snipe of a scrum from Matty Oldridge reduced from Soane Fakahau, Israel Young and Trevor-Shane Baker
the deficit to 21-15, but unfortunately PNBHS were unable got PNBHS on the front foot, and a snipe by Jayden Keelen
to score again in the dying minutes. off a good scrum saw the deficit reduced to 14-12.

INTERSCHOOL FIXTURES A penalty to Blackrock extended the lead to 17-12. PNBHS
Francis Douglas Memorial College 2nd XV – Win – 52-0 threw everything at Blackrock in the final few minutes and
From the kick-off, the 2nd XV forwards got into their work with were held at bay by some fantastic defence, eventually
some strong carries from Kolo Kavake, Wiri Chambers and succumbing to a 17-12 defeat.
Thomas Ellmers-Ropotini leading the way.
Wellington College – Win – 31-11
Some good defence from FDMC and poor discipline, PNBHS entertained Wellington College at Coronation Park.
however, allowed FDMC to repel the initial pressure. Poor weather in the lead up to the game and steady rain
Undeterred, the 2nd XV kept going through the phases and during the match meant it was likely to be a tight forward
used their big ball carriers effectively to punch holes in the battle.
defence and create space. This led to four tries in the first half
to Jackson Scully, Wiri Chambers, Thomas Taylor-Brock and From the kick-off, PNBHS forced an error and some good
Bryn Wilson. carries by the forwards led to IsraelYoung beating a defender
to score under the posts for an early 7-0 lead. An error from
The second half followed a similar pattern, with charges the kick-off allowed Wellington to build some pressure and
from Israel Young, Darius Mafileo, Bryn Gordon and Tom they were rewarded with a penalty, which reduced the deficit
Finlay punching holes in the FDMC defence. This led to to 7-3. This seemed to hand Wellington the initiative and they
further tries to Leagu Talamavaio (2), Thomas Taylor-Brock camped in the PNBHS 22 for the next 15 minutes, helped
and Isaiah Sua, with Carson Hepi converting six of the eight by some inaccuracies from PNBHS. However, strong defence
tries for a 52-0 win. held Wellington at bay with their only reward another penalty
and the score was 7-6.
St Patrick’s College, Silverstream – Loss – 48-21
Silverstream started extremely strong, with a number of PNBHS rallied and the forwards began to take control of
carries from their forwards making in-roads into the PNBHS the game. With strong carries from Israel Young and Soane
defence. A missed tackle saw them break down the sideline Fakahau punching holes in the Wellington defence, this
and score an early try. From the kick-off, the Silverstream created space for Bryn Gordon. He broke the line and
forwards and backs combined to good effect and scored a managed to get an offload away for Harlow Apiata to score.
second try, before an error from a kick gifted them their third More pressure was applied and another charge from Bryn
try and it was 21-0 after 11 minutes. Gordon saw him suck in defenders, before popping the ball
to Korie Winters for an easy try and a 19-6 half-time lead.
PNBHS rallied and some strong carries from the forwards,
led by Thomas Ellmers-Ropotini and Tom Finlay, created The second half started in a similar fashion, with the PNBHS
space. Darel Lander and Leauga Talamavaio combined to put forwards to the fore. A big charge from Bryn Gordon and
Carson Hepi over for a try in the corner, which was converted Tom Finlay gave PNBHS field position and when they were
by Jack Harris. This seemed to galvanise PNBHS and they awarded a penalty, a well-executed ‘catch & drive’rewarded
created space out wide, only to throw an intercept and found Harlow Apiata with his second try. PNBHS kept applying
themselves down 26-7. On half-time, another well worked pressure and a crunching tackle from Isaiah Sua caused the
try by Silverstream extended their lead to 33-7. ball to come loose and Mitch Leach pounced on it for the
fifth try.
A quick start to the second half put the lead out to 38-7.
Again PNBHS rallied, and a catch and drive from a lineout After some concerted pressure, Wellington scored a late
saw Harlow Apiata score and reduce the deficit. Two more consolation. This was a very positive performance by the
well-worked tries to Silverstream extended the lead to 48-14, 2nd XV which encouraged them as they approached the
before a strong finish from PNBHS. The forwards pounded 2017 semi-finals and finals.
the Silverstream line before Tom Findlay crashed over for
the try their efforts deserved. This was a much improved
performance against the best team the boys had faced so
far in the season.

Blackrock College, Ireland – Loss – 17-12
Blackrock College are perennial Irish champions who were
touring New Zealand with their 1st and 2nd XV teams, and
so two tough fixtures lay in store. PNBHS started strongly,
buoyed by their improved performances against Silverstream
and Tauranga. Strong carries from Kolo Tavake and Darius
Mafileo saw them pressure the Blackrock line without reward.

An error from a scrum allowed Blackrock to break and go
95m to score and take a 7-0 lead against the run of play.

2017 THE PALMERSTONIAN | 253

PREMIER 1 space for Finn Davey out wide, who finished superbly to
Round 1 vs Manukura 2nd XV – Win – 38-8 extend the lead to 18-7.
The 2nd XV began their Premier 1 campaign against the
Manukura 2nd XV. A poor start gave Manukura the initiative PNBHS were now in control, until a display of petulance from
and, after some strong carries, they were awarded a penalty Isaiah Sua saw him sent off. This meant that PNBHS had to
which they converted for a 3-0 lead. play the final 15 minutes with 14 men. Waiopehu started to
stretch the game and applied a lot of pressure. Their efforts
PNBHS came back strong with some good carries through were rewarded with a late try, reducing the deficit to 18-14,
their forwards, notably through Bryn Gordon, Cail Terri and but PNBHS held their nerve to escape with an 18-14 win.
Thomas Ellmers-Ropotini. This created space on the blind
side and quick hands put Thomas Taylor-Brock in for the Round 3 vs Manukura 1st XV - Win – 15-7
team’s first try. Further pressure came and, after a scrum in The 2nd XV headed to the Arena to play the Manukura 1st XV,
Manukura’s 22, Tom Finlay crashed over to extend the lead. following the rearranged fixture due to a clash with Gisborne.
Further control was exerted throughout the half and Jack This was potentially a clash between the top two sides in
Harris added two more tries to make the half-time score 26-3. the competition, and so a tough battle was in the offing.

Manukura started the second half strong, but some The PNBHS forwards came out fizzing. This had become the
determined defence, led by Dion Poynton, held firm. This norm for the forward pack now and they took the game to
allowed the PNBHS forwards to get back on top and some Manukura. Some excellent carries and aggressive work at the
strong running from Tom Finlay and replacements Kolo breakdown laid the platform for the backs to move the ball.
Tavake and Darius Mafileo saw space created out wide for An early penalty put PNBHS up 3-0 and in the ascendency.
Tremain Thompson-Ashford to score. The forwards got on top and PNBHS were held up a couple
of times which kept Manukura in the game.
The game then drifted as PNBHS lost some focus and
Manukura their discipline. Manukura’s efforts were rewarded Undeterred, the PNBHS forwards stuck to their work and,
with a try but this only galvanised PNBHS. The 2nd XV after a series of good carries, space was created out wide for
reverted to their direct style and, after a strong carry from Korie Winters to dot down. Straight from the kick-off, PNBHS
Josh Maoate, they were rewarded with the final try of the went back on attack. After some strong carries, the ball was
day to Tremain Thompson-Ashford. again shifted to Korie who showed excellent speed to score
his second. Half-time 15-0.
Round 2 vs Waiopehu College 1st XV – Win – 18-14
The 2nd XV were confident heading into Round 2, buoyed by As expected, Manukura came out firing. The breakdown
some good results to date. A strong start saw PNBHS applying became very physical as Manukura looked to disrupt the
pressure and, despite some good defence from Waiopehu, PNBHS ball. PNBHS weathered the storm, led by some
PNBHS were rewarded with an early penalty to Jack Harris. fantastic defence. A turnover in the mid-field gave Manukura
a chance, and an excellent kick through saw them score and
Rather than allowing the 2nd XV to kick on, this good start reduce the deficit to 15-7.
seemed to lull them into a false sense of
With their tails up now, Manukura kept coming. They put
security. Individual errors and poor discipline punctuated lots of width on the ball and challenged the PNBHS defence.
the half and allowed Waiopehu to control the game for The PNBHS players showed great heart and endeavour to
long periods. Strong defence from PNBHS kept Waiopehu close them down and see out the game. A just reward for
scoreless, and a rare breakout forced another penalty which the superb effort and commitment of the boys.
was again converted by Jack Harris. This seemed to galvanise
the PNBHS forwards, who responded with strong carries that Round 4 vs Whanganui High School – Win – 31-27
created space. A good pass from Xavier Reuben put Leaugu The 2nd XV travelled to Whanganui to play their rearranged
Talamavaio over in the corner for a 13-0 half-time lead. game after a clash with the Hastings Boys’High School Super
8 fixture.
A strong start to the second half from Waiopehu saw them
camped in the PNBHS 22. Excellent PNBHS defence repelled A very slow start, showing a lack of energy and enthusiasm,
attack after attack until a superb offload found a gap and was pounced upon by Whanganui and they snatched the
Waiopehu scored, reducing the deficit to 13-7. initiative. Their runners made easy ground and the normally
sound 2nd XV defence were all at sea as Whanganui found
PNBHS responded well and began to get on top of their gaps all over the field. A series of offloads saw an early try
opponents. Strong carries from Darius Mafileo, Dion Poynton and then a chip kick through saw Whanganui score their
and Tom Findlay put PNBHS on the front foot and created second. After 8 minutes, PNBHS trailed 14-0.

PNBHS rallied and were rewarded with a try to Mitch Leach
following some patient build up. Unfortunately, more poor
play followed, allowing Whanganui to score a third and lead
21-5. PNBHS responded positively, and a strong carry from
LeaugaTalamavaio off a scrum created space for Bryn Gordon
to crash over and Jack Harris converted. Half-time 21-12.

The second half saw PNBHS start with far more urgency,
with the forwards carrying aggressively. This put Whanganui
under pressure and a poor kick was seized upon, allowing
Israel Young to crash over to reduce the deficit to 21-17.
Whanganui responded well and applied some real pressure
to the PNBHS defence, which was functioning better now.
Despite some big hits from Bryn Gordon and Soane Fakahau,
PNBHS conceded two penalties which allowed Whanganui
to extend the lead to 27-17 with 9 minutes to play.

254 | THE PALMERSTONIAN 2017

Again, PNBHS rallied. Strong carries from Thomas Ellmers- the lead to 19-0. PNBHS were using the wind well, pinning
Ropotini put PNBHS on the front foot and quick service from Freyberg in their 22 and beginning to turn the screw. They
Jayden Keelen at half back started to stretch the Whanganui were rewarded with a try to Thomas Taylor-Brock in the
defence. The pressure told and Israel Young scored his corner for a 26-0 lead. This seemed to deflate Freyberg and
second with four minutes to play, and it was game on at 27- the flood gates opened. An offload from Xavier Reuben put
24. In the ascendency now, PNBHS sensed an opportunity. Israel Young over, before a break from Jack Nesdale created
Off a lineout, the forwards went to work. They put together space for Isaiah Sua to score in the corner. Another strong
11 phases before a snipe by Jayden Keelen saw him score and carry from Xavier Reuben saw Jack Nesdale score from a
the conversion gave PNBHS a 31-27 lead with one minute quick ‘pick & go’. There was still time for another try and
to play. Final score 27-31. some footwork from Trevor-Shane Baker put Xavier Reuben
in space, who supplied a perfect pass for Jack Nesdale to
Round 5 vs Hato Poara 1st XV – Loss – 17-0 sprint 40m for his second try and the final act of the game.
The 2nd XV travelled to Hato Poara, hoping to be able
to set the record straight following some disappointing Round 8 vs Tu Toa 1st XV – Win – 27-7
performances in their Super 8 campaign. With the weather PNBHS entertained Tu Toa, desperately wanting to build up
very poor, a tight game was predicted. Hato Poara came out some momentum to take into the semi-finals the following
firing and pressured the PNBHS line, but some strong defence weekend. The team started well, applying pressure in the Tu
held them at bay and PNBHS worked themselves into the Toa 22. A driving maul saw Harlow Apiata go close to scoring,
game. Unfortunately, missed tackles began to haunt them before Jack Harris scored in the corner following a 5m scrum.
and Hato Poara broke and scored for a 5-0 half-time lead. Tu Toa began to use the wind effectively and pinned PNBHS
in their own 22. Some excellent defence saw them hold Tu
PNBHS were confident that playing with the wind would Toa scoreless and a tight first half finished 5-0.
enable them to turn the game around. Unfortunately, an
early score to Hato Poara made the task more difficult and, PNBHS started the second half well, with some strong carries
despite playing for long periods in the HP 22, basic errors from the forwards putting them on the front foot. From
proved costly. To rub salt in their wounds, Hato Poara scored another 5m scrum, Soane Fakahau picked up and powered
a late try against the run of play and the 2nd XV were left to over, with Jack Harris adding the extras. A nice backs move
rue a very bad day at the office and a 17-0 defeat. created space in mid-field for Darel Lander, who broke the
line and went deep into the Tu Toa 22. A couple of quick
Round 6 vs Dannevirke 1st XV – Win – 46-0 phases saw Darel pop up and score the team’s third try. Some
A slow start from PNBHS allowed Dannevirke early field good interplay from the backs and forwards created space
position, but they were unable to capitalise. A turnover out wide for Darel, who went close to his second try, before
gave PNBHS possession and, after a number of phases, a pick and go saw Soane score his second. Off a dominant
Israel Young crashed over for a 5-0 lead to PNBHS. From the scrum, a big carry from Isaiah Sua again put PNBHS on the
kick-off, PNBHS built phases. A quick switch to the blind side front foot and a chip and chase from Korie Winters saw
created space, and a good pass from Harlow Apiata put Korie PNBHS pick up their fifth try. The only disappointment came
Winters over for the second try. The PNBHS forwards were in the last couple of minutes as Tu Toa were able to take
now dominant and, after a charge from Thomas Ellmers- advantage of a quick tap penalty to score their consolation
Ropotini, the ball was shifted blind again and good hands try. Final score 27-7.
from Trevor-Shane Baker put Jack Harris in for the third try.
More pressure followed and a good line from Tamati Ruawai Overall, a good performance which gave the team
saw him go 35m to score. Half-time 22-0. confidence heading into their home semi-final.

The second half started with another big carry from Michael Premier 1 Semi-final vs Tu Toa 1st XV – Win – 28-11
Halatuituia. A break from Matty Oldridge set up field position PNBHS won the toss and elected to play into the wind in
and, after a couple of ‘pick and go’s, Tamati Ruawai was in the first half. Given the tough conditions and the strength
for his second. More carries from the forwards created space of the wind, a tough first half threatened. From the kick-off,
and good hands put Jack Harris in for his second try. More Tu Toa camped in the PNBHS 22 with some good interplay
pressure came and, after a charge from Korie Winters, the ball in the forwards causing problems for the PNBHS defence.
was shifted wide and Darius Mafileo was in for a try. From a However, a big hit knocked the ball free and was pounced
5m scrum, Leauga Talamavaio ran a good line to score the on by Mitch Leach deep in his own 22. Mitch then beat three
final try. Final score 46-0. defenders on his way to an outstanding try in the corner to
give PNBHS a 5-0 lead. Back came Tu Toa and they used the
Round 7 vs Freyberg 1st XV – Win – 50-0 wind well to camp in the PNBHS 22. Pressure told and they
The 2nd XV knew victory in this game would guarantee were rewarded with a penalty and then a try to lead 8-5. A
themselves a place in the semi-final, and so travelled to well-worked move from PNBHS created space and allowed
Freyberg determined to start well. However, a fired up Israel Young to crash over for a 10-8, before a penalty on
Freyberg team seized the early initiative with some clever half-time from Tu Toa made the score 11-10.
kicking keeping PNBHS pinned in their 22. Gradually, PNBHS
worked their way into the game and they began to get their PNBHS turned with the wind, confident they could overturn
forward runners working and got some field position. A the deficit. A strong start from the forwards was rewarded
turnover and quick hands saw Trevor-Shane Baker provide with an early penalty from Jack Harris. Further pressure was
a good pass for Mitch Leach to score and give PNBHS a 5-0 applied and, from a series of pick and go’s, Matty Oldridge
lead. Freyberg responded and attacked PNBHS with vigour. sneaked over and the lead was now 20-11. Another penalty
Some superb defence, led by Israel Young, Harlow Apiata to Jack Harris extended the lead further, before Kolo Tavake
and Trevor-Shane Baker, repelled the Freyberg attack. A crashed over from close range to seal the victory.
break from Thomas Taylor-Brock gave PNBHS field position
and, from a quick tap-penalty, Bryn Gordon crashed over to A dominant second half performance from the 2nd XV and
give PNBHS a 10-0 half-time lead. they deserved their place in the Premier 1 final.

The second half started well for PNBHS. A break from Max
Harris saw him offload for Jardyn Tamati to score and extend

2017 THE PALMERSTONIAN | 255

Premier 1 Final vs Manukura 1st XV – Loss – 20-11 from the restart gave Manukura a break. Some excellent
Manukura kicked the ball deep and chased well, immediately scrambling defence held them out, but they were awarded
putting PNBHS under pressure and forced an early penalty a penalty in front of the posts and they restored their lead
to take a 3-0 lead. PNBHS rallied well and gained a foothold 13-11. Again, the game turned into a physical battle until
in the game, applying pressure in the Manukura 22 but another break from the Manukura midfield created space
unfortunately missed a couple of difficult penalties. The first on the edge and the Manukura fullback scored his second
half was turning into an arm wrestle until a well-executed try to extend the lead to 20-11.
back line move created space for the Manukura fullback, who
showed his pace as he beat three defenders and scored in A huge effort from the PNBHS team in the last 15 minutes saw
the corner. The conversion gave Manukura a 10-0 lead and them dominate the exchanges. They pounded the Manukura
PNBHS were struggling. A great restart saw PNBHS regather line, but some outstanding defence from Manukura held
possession and make in-roads into the Manukura 22. Big them at bay and secured the title for Manukura. Final score
carries from the forwards put PNBHS on the front foot and, 11-20.
after a series of phases, Korie Winters sneaked over to reduce
the deficit to 10-5 at the half. AWARDS:
Players Player: Israel Young
PNBHS turned with the wind, confident they could overturn Player of the Year: Israel Young
the deficit. They started the half well, challenging the Forward of the Year: Thomas Ellmers-Ropotini
Manukura defence who responded well with some big hits. Back of the Year: Jack Harris
PNBHS were awarded a penalty for offside, which reduced Most Improved Forward: Bryn Gordon / Harlow Apiata
the deficit to 10-8, before a break forced another penalty Most Improved Back: Mitch Leach
to put PNBHS in front 11-10. Unfortunately, a missed tackle Bolter Award: Max Harris / Soane Fakahau
Team Man: Xavier Reuben

UNDER 16 A QEC was next and the first half was very even, but with great
individual tries to Jayden Keelan and Soane Fakahau the lead
Coaches: Mr B. Greer, Mr P. Finch stretched out to a comfortable 38-20 win. The PNBHS 3rd XV
named a team that included many boys who had missed out
2017 promised to be a good year as many fine players did not on our team and several very talented older boys. Under the
make this year’s final cut. A short pre-season ended with the crafty tutorage of Mr Pottinger and Mr Adams, they came
away trip to play Te Aute 1st XV. Whilst we matched them for back from being well down at half-time to be too physical
parts of the game, they exposed us out wide to post a 57-21 for us and beat the 16A’s by 31-28. This was to be our only
win. Grading games had the boys up against Tararua 1st XV loss as lessons were learned and the boys were determined
and Horowhenua 1st XV, with the boys putting together not to be dominated again.
some good early season form to win both: 27-7 and 21-0.
These results placed us in the Secondary Schools Premier Our next match was against Horowhenua 1st XV and was
2 grade against all of the second tier 1st XV’s. The season played at their school in Levin. Another tough first half saw
proper started with an away game to Manawatu College our boys go into half-time with a slim lead but with two tries
1st XV. The boys caught their hosts a little unprepared and a piece to Soane and Isaiah Hauraki, and some very accurate
produced an outstanding display of team pattern play and kicking from Aydin Champion, the score board ticked over
unselfish contributions, highlighted by a hat trick of tries constantly to finish on 36-7 at full-time.
by James Cameron. The second half was much closer and
that indicated a season of tough matches would follow. A The last game of the round had us play Awatapu 1st XV. After
57-5 win to PNBHS. a pretty close game, the boys came out on top with a four try

256 | THE PALMERSTONIAN 2017

RUGBY U16A
Back Row: Jack Wenham, Soane Fakahau, Meihana Matenga, James Waterson
3rd Row: Keenan Thomson, Braithim Sharland, Jershon Carberry, James Cameron, Toby Donovan
2nd Row: Mr P. Finch (Coach), Wade Talatala, Archie Justice, Brandon Young, Alex Parker, Isaiah Hauraki, Josh Ellingham,
Mr B. Greer (Coach)
Front Row: Tom Kirk, Max Zander, Jayden Keelan, Ethan Johanson, Aidan Champion, Chance Malu, Bank Jonglertjanya
Absent: Bryden Reeves

22-0 win and finished the first round narrowly in first place, Johansson all contributing.
ahead of PNBHS 3rd XV and QEC 1st XV.
Awatapu 1st XV produced a spirited effort but a hat trick to
There was no chance Manawatu College was to be caught weekly scorer Isaiah and Aydin’s pinpoint kicking soon tamed
unprepared a second time and the U16’s had to work hard them somewhat. The boys ran out 43-0 winners, and this put
for every metre and every point. Max Zander scored a handy the boys into the final against either QEC or PNBHS 3rd XV,
brace of tries and Isaiah establishing a habit of scoring in depending on their results that day.
most matches. Eventually running out 34-5 victors, this was
a hard battle. The other finalist was QEC who, on points differential, nudged
out the PNBHS 3rd XV. With the season score at 1-1, we would
QEC now sat only a couple of points behind us on the table have preferred to play them to settle the score.
and our next game against them was a top of the table clash.
We started very well but never really got away from them The final was played out at Massey and after dominating
and losing Alex Parker in the first half cost us a bit of lineout all but the first 10-12 minutes, QEC went into half-time
dominance. A lot of defending near the end showed the grit narrowly up at 10-7. A fantastic second half by the team.
of this team and they held their 10-point margin by winning Three converted tries to none in the second half saw the
34-24. This is the best QEC 1st XV I have ever seen and they power switch to us and showed a lot of the attributes they
really challenged our boys. have been training hard to master all year.

The holiday break offered the boys the chance to play two A great bunch of players, many of whom were selected for
very good English 1st XV’s. Both were too big, too direct the Manawatu U16 Representative team and/or the PNBHS
and more organized for us, although they provided a great U16 team that went on to win the annual Quadrangular in
learning experience for all that were involved. Hamilton.

With a narrow, hard-fought win over QEC, the PNBHS 3rd Thanks for the great support by friends and family throughout
XV were now just behind us on the table and so another the season and our sponsor Scott Miers from PTS Auto.
top of the table clash followed. Lessons learned in our first
encounter meant we were better prepared for the physical
challenge that invariably came. A great win against mainly
older boys extended our lead on the table.

Horowhenua at home was a different challenge. The boys
ran in 11 unanswered tries and converted all of them. Of
these, Aydin Champion scored a hat-trick and converted
five, with Josh Ellingham, Jayden Keelan and skipper Ethan

2017 THE PALMERSTONIAN | 257

RUGBY 3RD XV
Back Row: Connor Brown, Pajoe
Mapuilesua, Pau Sekona, Isaiah
Tuputupu, Patrick Redfearn, Harison
Rickards, Taine Evans
2nd Row: Mr J. Adams (Coach),
Armani Tupai, Jone Radike, Jack
Campbell, Clay Simpson-Smith,
Fontaine Kiri, Mr P. Pottinger (Coach)
Front Row: Connor Harris, Jone
Veiogo, Stanley Tawhiti, Jack Eder,
Christian Hawira-Seanoa, Jacob Aull,
Jack Davis
Absent: Mitch Leach

THIRD XV Highlights of the session included:
• Win and a close loss to the U16A Team
Coaches: Mr J. Adams, Mr P. Pottinger • Revenge wins over QEC and Manawatu College after first

Team: Jacob Aull, Connor Brown, Jack Campbell, round losses
Jack Eder, Jayden Edgecumbe, Taine Evans, Connor • The teams’willingness to be flexible and play in more than
Harris, Christian Haira-Senoa, Fontaine Kiri, Pajoe
Mapuilesua, Jone Radike, Patrick Redfearn, Harison one position
Rickards, Caleb Satterthwaite, Pau Sekona, Clay • The spirit the team developed into a true sense of
Simpson-Smith, StanleyTawhiti, IsaiahTuputupu, Jone
Veigo. Leauga Talamaivao and Michael Papanui also brotherhood
helped out throughout the season. • Results were obtained despite many Wednesday washouts

The 3rd XV finished second equal in the Premier 2 for practice
Competition, but a costly loss against Manawatu College The players were grassroots stars – grafters with gritty
1st XV in Foxton, saw us miss the final on countback. We determination, perhaps with the exception of the Manawatu
managed to beat all the teams involved in the competition, College game. Individuals have the ability to perform at a
and the highlight was our win over the eventual competition higher level, both at the school and when they leave school.
winner, PNBHS U16 side, 31-28. Continue to enjoy your rugby young men and contribute in
a positive manner to the game you love.
Injuries, illness and promotions tested our resolve at times.
Our game plan and determination to play attacking rugby Thanks to our loyal band of supporters.
saw us involved in a number of entertaining matches.

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RUGBY 4TH XV
Back Row: Sam Waller, Josh Beattie,
Henry Leck, Mason McLean
3rd Row: Liam Smith, Max Miller, Nick
Punnett, Tom Whale, Craig Lawrence,
Philip Charsley, Jacob Lidiard
2nd Row: Mr D. Bovey (Coach),
Connor Beck, Joseph Mafi, Tasi Vaha’i,
Robert Broughton, Mitchell Huigens,
Xavier Christian, Mr L. Calton (Coach)
Front Row: Kaleb Kidd, Leo Irvine-
Butcher, Hamzah Arafeh, Jarrod Kirk,
Cameron Harridge, Dominic Oliver,
Jack Watson
Absent: William McRae, Ben Wood

FOURTH XV

Coaches: Mr D. Bovey, Mr L. Calton

Team: Jarrod Kirk (Captain), Hamzah Arafeh, Josh
Beattie, Connor Beck, Robert Broughton, Philip
Charsley, Xavier Christian, Cam Harridge, Mitchell
Huigens, Leo Irvine-Butcher, Kaleb Kidd, Craig
Lawrence, Henry Leck, Jacob Lidiard, Joseph Mafi,
Mason McLean, William McCrae, Max Miller, Dominic
Oliver, Nick Punnett, Liam Smith, Tasi Vaha’i, Sam
Waller, Jack Watson, Ben Wood

The 4th XV enjoyed a successful season in 2017. Playing in
Premier 3, a grade down from last year, the signs were not
promising early on after a close and somewhat fortuitous
win over a scratch PNBHS Crusaders side in the first game
of the year.

However, the team made solid progress thereafter. The next
match was played in hypothermic conditions in Taihape
against the Taihape Area School, and an encouraging
performance in the sleet led to a 39-0 victory, with Jack
Watson scoring three tries in an impressive display of rugby.
A solid win over Whanganui High School followed, before
the first loss of the season against Dannevirke High School
in Dannevirke, a game we dominated for much of the first
half. However, Dannevirke were able to come back into the
match and snatch a 26-24 win.

2017 THE PALMERSTONIAN | 259

Good wins over Feilding 3rd’s and Tararua followed, with A special thanks to those who returned from last year’s
impressive performances from loose forward Tom Whale, team: Jarrod Kirk, Hamzah Arafeh, Dominic Oliver and Cam
props Xavier Christian and Phil Charsley, along with some Harridge.
good goal kicking from Jacob Lidiard. Whanganui High
School was again defeated, this time a solid 37-10 victory, a The 4th XV are a great bunch of lads who played well and
scoreline that included seven tries. supported each other throughout the season. Team spirit
was excellent and a number of players could have played at
A competitive first half in the rematch with Tararua saw the a higher level. It was a fantastic season and a well-deserved
team placed under some defensive pressure, but the second title.
half was a different affair and the team came away with a 36-7
win. A good win followed over Taihape, before the eagerly
anticipated rematch with Dannevirke which, unfortunately,
saw Dannevirke default despite being the only team to have
defeated us thus far.

The Premier 3 grade was different to the other grades in that
there was to be no playoffs: the title was to be decided on
a straight round-robin basis. This meant that the final game
against Feilding 3rd’s would decide the title, although even
a loss by less than 50 points would suffice given our superior
points differential. The Feilding side, a much different and
much strengthened team from the previous encounter, was
too strong, winning the match 17-15 in what was one of our
best performances of the season. The bonus point from the
loss meant the points for and against were irrelevant and the
4th XV were the Premier 3 champions for 2017.

Thank you to Mr Calton for his coaching throughout the
season, and to Mr Bovey who was an occasional helper.

RUGBY 5TH XV SHARKS
Back Row: Mitchell Floyd-Naylor,
Caleb Taylor, James Rosendale,
Douggie Ashton
3rd Row: Lachlan Howell, Kazane Ito,
Regan Molloy, Ollie Rhodes, Blake
Hodges
2nd Row: Isaac Chan, Matthew Turrill,
Jayden Feekes, Tyler Lawry, James
Warnock, Angus Grant, Mr P. Truter
(Coach)
Front Row: Angus Brodie, Aidan Putu,
Jaykob Wilson, Tudreu Davis, Harry
Jones, Liam Annis, Omar Arafeh
Absent: Corban Avery, Harlen Chase-
Raharuhi, Gus Lahmert, Michael
Nicholls, Levi Sharratt, Michael
Shilvock, Liam Wilson

FIFTH XV SHARKS the excuses and enables players and supporters to deal with
and accept the final outcome. To the credit of everyone
Coach:  Mr P. Truter associated with the Sharks, although we were disappointed
to finish third in our competition, this was in reality a fair
Another fantastic group of young men made up the Sharks reflection of the best we could have achieved this year -
team this year. Team spirit was high and so too were our well done boys.
expectations for the season. However, one of the great
lessons sport teaches us is how to balance expectations Tudreu Davis, with his excellent people skills, was an easy
with reality. Doing and giving your best helps to filter out

260 | THE PALMERSTONIAN 2017

selection for captain. He has the respect of all the players threw into the lineout with accuracy. Omar Arafeh, James
and was able to bring out the best in all of them. He has a Rosendale and Jayden Feekes, having never played rugby
good eye for a gap in the defence and, with his pace and before, and Isaac Chan, who hadn’t played since Intermediate
athleticism, made many an outstanding break. School, were eager to learn and their skill levels increased
rapidly. They enjoyed the physicality of being a forward and
This year we were fortunate to have an abundance of front quickly became valuable members of the team. Gus Lahmert
row forwards, which was in stark contrast to more recent played with determination and made a huge contribution to
seasons. The irony is, however, that a shortage of association the tight five. Harlen Chase-Raharuhi excelled as an openside
referees meant we had to play a number of games with flanker, his rushing defence putting the opposition under
uncontested scrums. Angus Brodie played like a man pressure, forcing them into errors which led to good turnover
possessed with little consideration for his own body. This, ball. Matthew Turrill, Liam Wilson and James Warnock had
however, led to some unfortunate knocks to the head and enormous work rates as loose forwards and brought a
lengthy periods on the sideline recovering from concussion. welcome degree of physicality to all that they did.
Angus Grant, Tyler Lawry and Ollie Rhodes were rock solid as
props and great at the breakdown. Regan Malloy and Harry Jakob Wilson made the halfback position his own, being
Jones enjoyed receiving the ball at the head of a pod and equally adept at passing off both feet and with great accuracy.
always ensured we got accross the advantage line. They also He grew into the position well and by the end of the season

2017 THE PALMERSTONIAN | 261

had a great controlling influence over much of the game. in him making many a foray into opposition territory. Mitchell
Douggie Ashton was very solid at first five. Clever kicking into Floyd-Naylor and Blake Hodges were courageous on the wing,
the corners when required ensured we played much of the but concussion was to severely limit their involvement in the
game in our opponent’s half of the field. His good vision and team. Kazane Ito made significant contributions on the wing,
natural skills gave him the necessary confidence to do well in courageously continuing to play with a broken hand which
this, demanding position. CalebTaylor was rock solid at centre, only became apparent when he arrived to school on Monday
whether on attack or defence. His pace and courage were an with his arm in a cast. Michael Shilvocks pace, determination
excellent combination and he excelled in the mid-field. Liam and aggressive approach meant he was deceptively difficult
Annis was equally adept playing in any position in the back to tackle out wide on the wing. Aidan Putu excelled at fullback
line but, by the end of the season, found fullback to be his and his natural pace and excellent courage in defence lifted
favourite. His courage and excellent vision and passing skills the confidence of everyone in the team.
were a huge asset to the team. Lackie Howell’s versatility in the
backs was a huge asset as he performed admirably wherever The Sharks tradition of creating an opportunity for senior
he played. Levi Sharratt, the fourth member of the team to students, whether they have played rugby before or not, to
have never played rugby before, relished the opportunity to unite in the love of the sport and with pride in wearing the
play in the backs. His pace and never give up attitude resulted blue and white jersey is alive and well.

RUGBY HIGHLANDERS
Back Row: Ryan Gleeson, Killian
Ansell, Trent Hooper, Campbell
Martin, Alex Graham, Navi Hawe-
Astwood
3rd Row: Jayden Hata, Devin Maere,
James Philpott, Tyler Rankin, Seth Te
Hore-Gardiner, Elijah Brooks-Bowen,
Joe Reddish
2nd Row: Mrs T. Beck (Manager),
Angus Beck, Isaac Newland,
Potiki Watling, Bailey Tyler, Jamie
MacKenzie, Reuben Lundy, Mr A.
Rankin (Coach)
Front Row: Jack Culleton, Isiah
Edwards, Imre Duncan, Glenn
Stringer, Kalani Grant, George
Reddish, Jeurkney Hawe
Absent: Nathan Emeck

UNDER 16 HIGHLANDERS

Coach: Mr A. Rankin

Manager: Mrs T. Beck

Team: Killlian Ansell, Angus Beck, Elijah Brooks-
Bowen, Jack Culleton, Imre Duncan, Isiah Edwards,
Nathan Emeck, Ryan Gleeson, Alex Graham, Kalani
Grant, Jayden Hata, Navi Hawe-Astwood, Jeurkney
Hawe, Trent Hooper, Reuben Lundy, Jamie Mackenzie,
Devin Maere, Campbell Martin, Isaac Newland, James
Philpott, Tyler Rankin, George Reddish, Joe Reddish,
Glenn Stringer, Seth Te Hore-Gardiner, Bailey Tyler,
Potiki Watling.

The 2017 season started with controversy and ended with
controversy. All U16 Rugby players that had not been
assigned to other teams were put together for one training
on Friday before grading games on the Saturday. 40 boys
came to the grading games and on Monday, the boys were
sorted into two U16 PNBHS Rugby teams to play in the
Premier 4 Open Grade of rugby, and this was the formation
of the U16 Highlanders.

The first game of the season was against the Feilding 4th
XV in Feilding. This game ended in a loss. However, the
Feilding team had played a number of boys from the 1st
XV, so the Manawatu Rugby Union awarded the game to
the Highlanders. The big positive from this game was the
formation of a strong camaraderie and bond within the
team. The team went from strength to strength week in and
week out, playing 10 competition games, winning 9 games
and drawing 1 game against St Peter’s 1st XV. They scored a

262 | THE PALMERSTONIAN 2017

total of 372 points whilst only conceding 72 points against Just as we started the season, we ended the season with
them. This meant the Highlanders finished top of the table controversy. On Monday morning, St Peter’s lodged a
and made the finals. formal complaint regarding the substitution of players,
which should all have been made at half-time. This was
The final was set against the St Peter’s 1st XV. The rivalry not possible with a team of 26 players and the coach of the
between the two teams was intense during the season, as PNBHS Highlanders was under the understanding that it
the second game against St Peter’s, which was a draw, had has been agreed before the game, and with consultation
been called off early due to controversy. The St Peter’s team with the Manawatu Rugby Union staff member during the
did not like being beaten by a younger, smaller team, so this game, that he could replace the players at any time during
set the scene for an intense final. the game, but the players, once substituted, could not take
the field again.
For finals games, the Manawatu Rugby Union have rules that
only 22 players can play, and all changes must be made at Even though the PNBHS Highlanders could not keep the
half-time. All year, the teams in the Premier 4 Grade had trophy and banner, they had an amazing season and can
played all their players and rolled the subs. Before the game be proud of what they achieved. They were the only
started, a discussion was held and it was agreed that all unbeaten team in the grade for the season, which is a huge
players could be played in the final, as long as they did not accomplishment.
go back on the field after being taken off.
Special thanks to all the parents that came to the games and
The game was a true final match, with the smaller, younger supported the team for the season and to the coach, Andrew
U16 Highlanders taking on the older and bigger St Peter’s 1st Rankin, who gave up a large amount of his personal time to
XV. It was a battle of which team wanted the win the most, coach and mentor this team.
both on and off the paddock, there was a huge amount of
passionate support. After an intense 70 minutes of rugby,
the PNBHS U16 Highlanders came out deserving winners
with the final score 19 to 14, and were awarded the Premier
4 trophy and banner.

2017 THE PALMERSTONIAN | 263

RUGBY CHEETAHS
Back Row: Nathan Hayward, Henry
Morris, Sam Rabbitte, Dominic Hall,
Ethan Bringas
2nd Row: Jakob Parry, Callum
Prichard, Liam Blatchford, Nicholas
Antoine de Joux, David Mafi, Mr D.
Durie (Coach)
Front Row: Jack Peden, Kaiya
Barker, Tom Beard, Daniel Flanagan,
Matthias Magill, Hamish Magee, Jack
Garforth

UNDER 16 CHEETAHS

Coaches: Mr D. Durie, Mr A. Blatchford, Mr G. Tanner

Team: Nicholas Antoine de Joux, Kaiya Barker, Tom
Beard, Liam Blatchford, Ethan Bringas, Lee Davis,
Daniel Flanagan (Captain), Jack Garforth, Dominic
Hall, Nathan Hayward, Caid-Jordon Maaka, David Mafi,
Hamish Mcgee, Mathais Magill, Chase Maniapoto,
Henry Morris, Jakob Parry, Callum Prichard, Sam
Rabbitte, Jordon Steedman, Oscar Teague, Joshua
Whittle

The Cheetahs team was made up of Year 11 students. The
team did not enjoy a lot of success but showed ability in
some games. It was hard to build a team due to lack of
numbers at trainings. The highlight for the season was the
two victories over Freyberg High School 2nd XV.

UNDER 15 COLTS Manawatu Youth 1 Competition, PNBHS Traditional
Interschool Fixtures against other Super 8 boys’schools and
Coaches: Mr A. Rehutai, Mr M. Love the New Zealand Under 15 National Tournament.

Team: Logan Love (Captain), Elyjah Crosswell (Vice MANAWATU YOUTH 1 COMPETITION
Captain), Kodie Albert-Papuni,  Reif Dawson, Regan The PNBHS Colts team competed in the top Youth grade
Fleming, Tom Hansen, Tavita Henare Schuster, Logan against five other schools in the Manawatu/Horowhenua
Hughes,Toby Hunter, Aaron Ioane, Charlie Justice, Otis region. While PNBHS was expected to get into the top
Luxford-Sullivan, Camryn Mabey, Chance Malu, Caleb two in this grade and make the final, they had to juggle
Martin, Kalis Mason, Wade McNabb, Tiwha Rukuwai, playing their traditional interschool games with the local
Feleti Sae-Ta’ufo’ou, Lafo Takiari-Ah Ching, Nasser competition games, often resulting in playing two or three
Tato, VJ Tauli, Jayden Taylor, LIam Todd, Brody Zander. games in a week.

The 2017 Under 15 Colts were an outstanding team that The team cruised through their pool play without being
played some magnificent rugby, culminating in an excellent tested too much, with the highlight of the pool play being
all-round season. Ably lead by Logan Love, Elyjah Crosswell, a 30-point thrashing of arch rivals Feilding High School
Charlie Justice and Reif Dawson, this team showed maturity in the wet at Coronation Park. This was arguably the best
beyond its years. performance of the season, with all 21 players playing the
game of their lives. As a team, they played as close to the
The team was a well-balanced unit with uncompromising near perfect game as you can get at this level and in these
tight forwards Nasser Tato, Feleti Sae-Taufoou, Aaron Ioane, conditions.
Tiwha Rukuwai, Charlie Justice, Caleb Martin, Jayden Taylor,
Kodie Albert-Papuni andTom Hansen hitting hard and hitting The scene was thus set for a showdown against Feilding
often. The loose trio of Regan Fleming, Brody Zander, Elyjah High School once again in the Manawatu finals at Massey
Crosswell and Logan Hughes (until injured) terrorised many University. After a delayed start to the game on a beautifully
opposition backs and never took a backward step. The inside fine winter’s day at Massey University, Feilding, with a slight
backs of Camryn Mabey, Logan Love, Wade McNabb, Tavita breeze at their backs, went on to attack from the kickoff and
Henare, Kalis Mason and Lafo Takiari Ah Ching made sure the proceeded to camp inside our 22 for the first 20 minutes of
speed merchants VJ Tauli, Toby Hunter, Liam Todd, Chance the game. Moving the ball from side to side in an attempt to
Malu and Reif Dawson got plenty of ball in plenty of space, speed the game up, it was only heroic defence that denied
so they could score plenty of tries, which they did. Feilding any points. When PNBHS were finally able to break
out of our own half, Tavita Henare, playing on the left wing,
The season was split into three distinct parts: the local

264 | THE PALMERSTONIAN 2017

RUGBY COLTS
Back Row: Camryn Mabey, Reif Dawson, Jayden Taylor, Brody Zander, Toby Hunter, Otis Luxford-Sullivan
3rd Row: Kodie Albert-Papuni, Wade McNabb, Caleb Martin, Tavita Henare-Schuster, Kaleb Terry, Liam Todd, Tiwha
Rukuwai
2nd Row: Mr M. Love (Coach), Nasser Tato, Logan Hughes, V J Tauli, Feleti Sae-Ta’ufo’ou, Kalis Mason, Tom Hansen, Mr A.
Rehutai (Coach)
Front Row: Jordan Viljoen, Curtis Heaphy, Elyjah Crosswell, Logan Love, Charlie Justice, Lafo Takiari-Ah Ching, Regan
Fleming
Absent: Aaron Ioane
received the ball in space and produced some‘Tavita magic’,
fending off two players and bamboozling several others as he
dotted down in the corner to open the scoring. 5 nil PNBHS.
Feilding then went back on to attack and opened their
account with a try by the posts which was duly converted.
5-7 Feilding. Play see-sawed for the rest of the first half until
Lafo Takiari Ah Ching latched on to a loose Feilding pass and
raced 90 metres to score under the posts. The conversion by
Logan Love meant PNBHS went into half-time 12-7 ahead.
The second half started well, with PNBHS gaining dominance
in set pieces and playing rugby at the right end of the field.
A trademark Nasser Tato bulldozing run resulted in Tato
crashing over out wide, pushing the score out to 17-7. Again
Feilding hit back, scoring a converted try, bringing the scores
closer, 17-14. Two well-taken tries in the final 15 minutes,
one to Reif Dawson and one to Jayden Taylor, saw PNBHS
run out comfortable winners and claim the U15 Champion’s
Trophy. While the game was a lot closer than many might
have expected, PNBHS knew that if they could repel Feilding’s
initial onslaughts they would eventually gain dominance and
gain control. And so it played out. This game was won by a
group of 22 committed young men, confident in their own
abilities and the team structures. Uncompromising defence,
good game appreciation, discipline and calm heads when
under pressure saw the PNBHS Colts team unbeaten this
year in the Manawatu Youth 1 Competition.
INTERSCHOOL FIXTURES
PNBHS 25 v Gisborne BHS 20
The PNBHS Colts opened their interschool season with a
hard-fought win against a big, determined Gisborne BHS
side in Gisborne. Played in wet and slippery conditions, the

2017 THE PALMERSTONIAN | 265

team that adapted to the conditions and played wet weather occasions. Getting the ball across the line proved somewhat
rugby was always going to have the advantage. The opening difficult, however, until Jayden Taylor scooped the ball up
10 minutes saw the two big forward packs go head to head with one hand and dived over to give PNBHS the lead 20-
in a tight and even battle. Gisborne opened the scoring with 15 with 15 minutes to go. From the kickoff, PNBHS swept
a penalty, after which Logan Love reciprocated to tie the back on attack and continued to dominate territory and
scores 3 all. After 15 minutes PNBHS was just starting to get possession until a break out by Gisborne with five minutes
on top of a tiring Gisborne forward pack, only for Gisborne to go saw PNBHS having to defend its line stoutly. Some
to get an intercept try and run 50m to score out wide. 8-3 to big hits by Tiwha Rukuwai, Logan Hughes, Takiari Ah Ching
Gisborne. This fired the blue and whites up and a perfectly and others saw PNBHS deny Gisborne a victory. Although
timed 1 and 3 cut inside Gisborne’s 22 saw Lafo Takiari Ah this game was close, PNBHS showed real rugby ‘smarts’ and
Ching bounce off several would-be tacklers like a pin ball in played the conditions to perfection.
a pinball machine and go in for a barnstorming try under the
posts. Love’s conversion put PNBHS 10-8 ahead. Just before PNBHS 50 v Hastings BHS 19
half time an old-fashioned lineout drive resulted in Elyjah After an early start, the team arrived in Hastings to be
Crosswell going over in the corner, meaning PNBHS went to welcomed to a fine, warm day, ideal for running rugby. The
the half time break leading 15-8. A quick tap penalty early in team was under no illusion that this was going to be a tough
the second half saw Gisborne catch PNBHS asleep and score assignment, especially after the strength of past Hastings
their second try to draw level 15 all. Some excellent tactical Boys’ High School teams throughout all grades over the
kicking and right option taking saw PNBHS dominate the past four or five seasons. PNBHS came out firing, with Logan
next 20 minutes and go close to scoring on a number of Love’s pinpoint kickoff being athletically claimed by Elyjah
Crosswell who ran to within 10 metres of the Hastings try
line. A quick ruck and some aggressive short ball running
resulted in Nasser Tato smashing his way over for a try beside
the posts before the Hastings players had even had time to
insert their mouthguards. Love’s conversion meant a dream
start by the fizzing PNBHS side. 7 nil. From the ensuing
kickoff, Crosswell and his fired-up mates dominated in close,
before the backs were let loose and Kalis Mason went over
out wide for the second try in the opening four minutes. 12
nil. A well-executed back move from a defensive position
gave Reif Dawson the overlap. He duly hit the turbo button
and outsprinted the cover defence to score under the black
dot. Love’s conversion meant it was a 19 nil lead after 10
minutes. PNBHS dominance in the scrums and the lineouts
meant Hastings could not get any momentum from which
to launch an attack. When they did, ferocious tackling from
Tiwha Rukuwai, Charlie Justice, Nasser Tato, Logan Hughes

266 | THE PALMERSTONIAN 2017

and Aaron Ioane meant the ball carriers were smashed back and Jayden Taylor and two conceded meant the final score
behind the advantage line. This allowed Camryn Mabey, ended up 50-19 in our favour. Pleasing about this game was
who had his best game for the Colts to date, to deliver some the intensity of the PNBHS performance which started right
quick front foot ball to his backs who relished the space from the kickoff and lasted until the final whistle. There was
and opportunities. A try by Crosswell from an old fashioned dominance in the set pieces, with Kodie Albert-Papuni, Caleb
lineout drive, and the subsequent conversion by Love, meant Martin andTom Hansen reigning supreme in the lineouts and
PNBHS went into half-time with a commanding 26 nil lead. also the skilful execution by the backs to create space out
An error from the kickoff at the start of the second half saw wide, with Toby Hunter, Liam Todd, and Reif Dawson seeing
PNBHS let Hastings in for a soft try, which gave Hastings a lot of ball. A post-match comment by the referee that he
some false hope of recovery. PNBHS fought back well with had never seen such aggressive defence by an Under 15
Logan Hughes finishing off a 70 metre movement that saw team underlined the determination of our Colts to not only
forwards and backs inter-passing and bamboozling the win, but to win this game well.
Hastings defence. Love’s conversion made the score 33-5.
Three more tries to Feleti Sae-Taufoou, Lafo Takiari Ah Ching PNBHS 5 v Hamilton BHS 31
This was a game of “what if’s”. PNBHS were convinced that
they could cause an upset against a big, strong, confident
Hamilton team that had won all their games so far this
season. However, with a number of front line players opting
to participate in other school events that weekend, coupled
with a number of players either in bed with the flu or
recovering from it, the chance of an upset was looking
more and more unlikely as game day drew closer. PNBHS
started well and dominated territory and possession in the
first 10 minutes, coming close to scoring several times. The
Hamilton defence held out, however, and this gave Hamilton
confidence to fire some shots of their own. Some close-in
running by the Hamilton forwards in the A and B channels,
coupled with some slick backline handling, saw Hamilton
score twice in the first half and go into half-time with a 10
nil lead. While PNBHS were down on the scoreboard, they
knew the first half had been close and that we had had our
chances to cross the chalk also. An even battle ensued for
the first 15 minutes of the second half until Hamilton broke
out from a defensive position and scored a long range try
against the run of play, which sunk the spirits and heads of
the PNBHS players. Another two tries by Hamilton (one a
length-of-the-field try by their jet-propelled winger) and
a try to PNBHS fullback Lafo Takiari Ah Ching meant the
scoreboard blew out to 31-5, which was not a fair reflection
of the closeness of the game or the effort the PNBHS players
had put in.

PNBHS 13 v New Plymouth BHS 37
Another frustrating day at the office! PNBHS had the better
of the opening exchanges, dominating the smaller New
Plymouth pack and were rewarded after 10 minutes with
a long-range penalty to Logan Love. However, two quick

2017 THE PALMERSTONIAN | 267

tries to New Plymouth in the 15th and 20th minutes saw the executed the game perfectly,
tide start to turn, with New Plymouth getting back into the pinning Napier inside their half
game and starting to out-muscle the larger PNBHS forward and coming close to scoring
pack. They dominated the close exchanges and counter on a number of occasions.
rucking effectively, stretching the PNBHS defence. Another Every time Napier tried to exit
blockbusting try to Lafo Takiari Ah Ching on the stroke of half- their half, they were turned
time meant PNBHS went to the drinks break 10-8 down, but back through strong defence
still in the game. PNBHS paid the ultimate price early in the or expertly-judged box kicks
second half when they tried to exit their goal line by running that consistently found land,
the ball out, and from then on it was all New Plymouth. A try not hand. At the 25 minute
to Kalis Mason from a series of‘pick and go’s’wasn’t enough to mark, Tiwha Rukuwai barged
bring PNBHS back into the game, with the final score blowing his way over after a long and
out to 37-13. This was a disappointing performance, with a sustained build up. A fine
number of our big forwards guilty of being mere spectators, reward for an enthralling
while the backs’reluctance to commit to the tackle and talk forward-orientated game
on defence showed up some defensive frailties. of ‘bumper boats’. Love’s
conversion meant PNBHS went into half-time 14 nil up.
PNBHS 31 v Wellington College 20 Knowing they had to battle into the wind in the second half,
Houdini is alive and well! The PNBHS Colts travelled to both the forwards and the backs knew percentage rugby
Wellington mid-week to play a big, physical, well-drilled was a must. An arm wrestle ensued, with a kickable penalty
Wellington College Colts side on a sunny, still day in the being awarded to PNBHS mid-second half which Love duly
Capital. It has been a number of years since the PNBHS slotted. This proved to be the only scoring of the second half.
Colts have tasted success against Wellington College, so The rest of the game was played out between the 22 metre
the team was under no illusion of the enormity of the task lines, with both teams throwing the kitchen sink at each
that lay ahead. The game could not have started worse for other. Expert lineout play by Kodie “pup” Albert-Papuni and
PNBHS. The scrums were awful, the lineouts were awful, Caleb Martin ensured PNBHS had a steady stream of lineout
the passing was awful and the communication was woeful. ball, whilst our scrum was dominant throughout the game,
PNBHS went into the break 17 nil down, and lucky to be on which gave our backs a great platform from which to launch
0. At half-time, the team took a deep breath, looked each their attacks. Openside flanker Regan Fleming made himself
other in the eye, and the senior players set out the plan for a fine nuisance and was busier than a beaver in a woodpile.
the second half. The team came out ‘zinging’ and took the How well our boys are learning to use the blindside! This
game to Wellington with Lafo Takiari Ah Ching scoring two game will be remembered for the huge hits from the usual
trademark tries mid-second half, both converted by Love. A suspects, Charlie Justice, Tiwha Rukuwai, Nasser Tato, Lafo
penalty to Wellington infront of the PNBHS posts shortly after Takiari Ah Ching and Chance Malu (whose bone jarring
allowed the home team to add another three points to their hits in the second half should have made a highlights reel)
total, 20-14 Wellington. With six minutes to go, and some ensuring Napier never crossed the advantage line or got any
smart rugby played by PNBHS, try-line pressure resulted in momentum throughout the game. A top performance from
Logan Love charging down a clearing kick and scoring out the Colts team who made their coaches, their parents and
wide. The missed conversion meant a scoreline of 20-19 to their supporters immensely proud.
Wellington with time almost up. With three minutes left,
Elyjah Croswell bravely took the kickoff, which ended in a 30
metre rampaging run by the‘runaway steam train’Nasser Tato
that saw him score the winning try in the corner with would-
be tacklers hanging off him left, right and centre. 24-19 to
PNBHS. From the ensuing kickoff, and with a minute to go,
PNBHS gave possession away to Wellington who had one last
opportunity to steal the game back. A long pass out to their
left wing was expertly plucked from the heavens by PNBHS
winger Liam Todd, who raced 70 metres downfield to score
under the posts to seal the win. The conversion saw PNBHS
come away with a 31-20 win, much to the disappointment
of the stunned Wellington players and supporters. This win
showed that this Colts team had courage and commitment
but, more importantly, players with cool, calm rugby brains.
At half-time, it looked like a 50 point hiding might be on the
cards for PNBHS. However, the players themselves worked
out how to nullify the big Wellington forward pack and
launch their own lethal attacks, which resulted in both a
second half territorial advantage and points. It was a great
win for the team! However, the coaches and parents would
prefer that the players did not leave their run to the tape so
late in the game.

PNBHS 17 v Napier BHS 0
Any game against Napier BHS is going to be close and be a
battle. This game was no exception. After an excellent pre-
match build up, PNBHS started the game in fine fashion,
with Reif Dawson scoring close to the sticks in the opening
stanza and Logan Love adding the conversion. 7 nil after
one minute. Playing with the wind in the first half, PNBHS

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New Zealand Under 15 National Tournament, eight playoffs. While this was disappointing, the players gave
Wellington their all in these two games, with both scores not reflective
This is New Zealand’s elite Under 15 Tournament, with 16 of the closeness of the two contests. The remaining three
of the country’s top teams competing for the title of ‘Best games were all battles, with PNBHS scoring in the last play
Under 15 Team in New Zealand’. Each team plays a total of of the game against St Pat’s Town on the Wednesday to take
six games over five days, an arduous task even for the best the win 22-19, and then having to battle some Mt Albert
of players and teams. Unfortunately, PNBHS drew ‘the pool Grammar giants to eventually secure a gutsy 29-19 win. This
of death’. with the only two teams we had lost to this year, left PNBHS and Napier BHS playing off on the last day of the
Hamilton BHS and New Plymouth BHS, also being in our pool. tournament for ninth and tenth place and the Sportmanship
This meant that we had to beat at least one of these teams, Trophy. Again the game was close, with both sides launching
plus Wellington College, to have any chance of making the waves of attacks and testing the other side’s defence, with
top eight. The tournament started off well, with PNBHS giving PNBHS eventually running out deserved winners in a rather
Wellington College a thumping on the first morning by 34 spiteful game 20-16. This team deserved to be placed higher
points to 19. The team played possibly their best half of the than ninth on its ability. As they have done all season, the
season in the first half, leaving a stunned Wellington College players showed guts, determination and focus right to the
down 27 nil at half-time. Two subsequent losses, to New end of every game and the tournament, to ensure they
Plymouth 23-8 in the afternoon and Hamilton 31 nil the next finished off a great season in style.
day, denied PNBHS a deserved spot in the competition’s top

RUGBY COLTS B - HURRICANES
Back Row: Jimi Smith, Druhan
Stephens, Zac Matthewson-Booth,
Jared Sellwood
3rd Row: Grady Molloy, Zac
Livingston, Taine Ata, Jonathan
Neemia, Tremaine Kinnear, Otis
Luxford-Sullivan
2nd Row: Miss S. Close (Manager),
Sam Simpson, Kaleb Terry, Jackson
Woodcock, V J Tauli, Kalvin Hemara,
Matt Fleming, Mr D. Braddock
(Coach)
Front Row: William Leong, Liam
Street, Jacob Cowie, Devon
Chapman, Neitana Blissett, Regan
Fleming, James Steele

UNDER 15 HURRICANES After an unfortunate end to the Manawatu Rugby season,
the team shifted their sights to the annual Lindisfarne U15
Coaches: Mr D. Braddock, Mr A. McDougall Invitational Tournament. Day one brought a defeat to the
eventual runners up of St Peter’s College. Day two saw
Manager: Miss S. Close the team play two games. The first was against Rathkeale
College and the second against St John’s College. While
Team: Devon Chapman (Captain), Taine Ata, Neitana both performances were an improvement on the previous
Blissett, Jacob Cowie, Floyd Fenn, Matt Flemming, day’s, neither yielded the desired outcome. On the third and
Kalvin Hemara, Tremaine Kinnear, William Leong, Zac final day of the tournament, the team played off for seventh
Livingston, Zac Matthewson-Booth, Grady Molloy, and eighth against Afili Futuna, from the small island of
Jonathan Neemia, Jared Sellwood, Sam Simpson, Jimi Futuna. This resulted in a 10-10 draw and a seventh place
Smith, James Steele, Druhan Stephens, Liam Street, finish overall.
Kaleb Terry, Jackson Woodcock.
Although the result was not as successful as the team had
The PNBHS Hurricanes, known as the ‘Blue Mustangs’ to hoped for, they should be proud of the effort they showed
the boys, competed in the Manawatu Rugby Youth 2 throughout the season at trainings and during games.
Competition. The season got off to a rather dire start with a Standout performers were: Neitana Blissett, our top try scorer,
heavy loss, but the young men showed great resilience and Jimi Smith, our forward of the year, Jared Sellwood, back of
worked hard to ensure they didn’t perform like that again. the year, and Tremaine Kinnear, season MVP. Every member
The team finished the regular season with seven wins, one of this team has the ability to push for higher honours in
loss and one draw, landing the top place in the division the years to come. They were a pleasure to coach and I look
and a spot in the final against arch rivals PNBHS Blue. After forward to following their future progress.
a dominant first half, the Hurricanes took their foot off the
throat and allowed their opposition to take the lead. A lead
that would not be relinquished. Final score: 15-12 loss.

2017 THE PALMERSTONIAN | 269

RUGBY U15 CHIEFS
Back Row: Aidan Thorne, Dion Tafa,
Mitchell Kennedy, Andre Reweti-
Pokaia, Davis Davidson
2nd Row: Miss S. Ellery (Manager),
Hare Carroll, Angus Wallace, Harrison
Marsh, Dominic Smith, Koare
Paniora, Mr S. Fleming (Coach)
Front Row: Tyler Stephens, Marcus
Parlato, Tobias Jones, Henry Boyden,
Tom Robson, Troy Bradley, Floyd
Fenn
Absent: Ben Carter

UNDER 15 CHIEFS

Coach: Mr S. Fleming

Manager: Miss S. Ellery

The Chiefs have had an outstanding season with some
excellent play and sportsmanship. The boys trained hard and
remained undefeated until we lost to FAHS U14’s on a cold,
wet and miserable day, after a hard and aggressive game.
We bounced back to win our next game and then sadly
we were defeated in our final game of the season against
Awatapu, where we lacked skill, fitness and our share of the
ball. Despite our loss, the boys reflected enthusiasm and
commitment to their team and we were more than happy
to be part of such a great team. We were blown away by
the consistent support from parents and caregivers who
gave up their time to support us as a team and their boys.
Without them the season wouldn’t have run as smoothly,
so a massive thanks to all involved.

270 | THE PALMERSTONIAN 2017

RUGBY U14 BLUE
Back Row: Pulotu Toumohuni, Ben
Sefo, Zane Munn, Leo Gordon
3rd Row: Curtis Heaphy, Raymond
Tuputupu, George Alabaster, Dean
Shields, Livai Stevenson
2nd Row: Mr J. Meehan (Coach), Cody
Borlase, Keanu Watson, Reuben Davis,
Nasi Manu, Lotu Lavilavi, Zac Maskill,
Mr Stephenson (Coach)
Front Row: Hayden Bell, Tipene Treacy,
Hunta Boyes, Jordan Viljoen, Tama
Nikora, George Oltaches, Jonty Fleck

UNDER 14 A BLUE good individual players, in most cases, our team coherence
and focus on the core skills, saw us come out on top. Our
Coaches: Mr J. Meehan, Mr A. Stephenson big forward pack developed a dominant scrum and lineout
and were consistent in producing strong carries across the
Team: Jordan Viljoen (Captain), George Alabaster, gain line to get our backs good go-forward ball. Our backs
Trinity Baker, Hayden Bell, Cody Borlase, Hunta finished well, with crisp catch and pass, and speed right
Boyes, Reuben Davis, Jonty Fleck, Leo Gordon, Curtis throughout the line. Their kick and chase game became
Heaphy, Lotu Lavilavi, Nasi Manu, Zac Maskill, Zane a key weapon for us as the season progressed. Although
Munn, Tama Nikora, George Oltaches, Riley Pereka, there were many individual standout performances that
Xavier Phillips, Caelim Reeves, Ben Sefo, Dean Shields, we could mention, one of the most impressive attributes of
Livai Stevenson, Pulotu Toumohuni, Tipene Treacy, these players was their ability to play smart rugby together
Raymond Tuputupu, Keanu Watson as a team. The season culminated with a final against PNBHS
U15B, in which the boys ground out a hard-fought victory,
MANAWATU YOUTH 2 COMPETITION – FIRST PLACE ultimately winning the Youth 2 competition.
This year was the first year of a combined Under 14 and
Under 15 competition in the Manawatu. After grading day, Results:
we were placed in the Youth 2 competition with four Under Round 1; vs Dannevirke - Win 59-0; vs PNBHS U15B - Win
15 teams and one other Under 14 team. This proved to be a 32-5; vs Manukura - Win 44-10; vs Tu Toa - Loss 36-38; vs
good challenge for our boys, and meant they had to front up Horowhenua - Win 20-12.
physically with older teams. Our focus throughout the season
was on the development of the core skills of catch-pass, ball
carry, cleanout and tackle. Though some teams had some

2017 THE PALMERSTONIAN | 271

Round 2; vs Dannevirke - Win (Default); vs PNBHS U15B - Loss
12-22; vs Manukura - Win 52-17; vs Tu Toa - Loss 20-38; vs
Horowhenua - Win 39-7.
Points for - 314, Points Against – 149

TRADITIONAL FIXTURES
Napier Boys’ High School - Win 33-17
The boys prepared well for their only interschool for the year,
and were into it from the word go. After some good early
pressure and strong carries from our forwards, we were able
to capitalise and score. Napier then started to use the strong
wind at their backs. We were stuck defending our line for
20 minutes, conceding two tries, and going into half-time
down 7-12.
We turned in the second half and used the wind well.
With great kicking and good chase lines, we were able to
mount pressure, get turnovers and score three tries in quick
succession. Napier would come back strong again, but we
were up to the challenge with our forwards rolling up their
sleeves and going to work in a huge defensive effort. Final
result was an impressive 33-17 win.

Colquhoun Under 14 Rugby Tournament 2017 - We continued to battle through every aspect of the game,
finished sixth but Hastings were able to find success with their impressive
The team went into this tournament confident, knowing we ball runners out wide, and managed another three tries to
had done the hard work and had strike power throughout. one. The final score was a 5 - 20 loss.
On day one, we encountered eventual tournament winners Our second game was against a very strong and fast Rotorua
Hastings Boys’ High School first-up. We dominated both Boys’ High School. They proved to be a very physical side
territory and possession early in the game, with our forwards from 1 to 15 and, unfortunately, it took too long for our boys
bashing across the gain line. However, we were unable to to match the muscle they were bringing. We were much
capitalise and Hastings broke away to score a long range try. better in the second half, but had let the score get away on
us early on. The final score was a 14 -31 loss.
With the finals now out of reach, day two was about playing
for some pride. This time, the boys started well and were able
to maintain pressure on Wellington College throughout
the game. The forwards were dominant in set piece and
carried the ball into contact strongly. The backs applied
good pressure with their kick and chase game and finished
off some nice tries. The final score was a 19 - 0 win.
This put us in the 5th/6th playoff on the final day against
Tauranga Boys’ College, a game in which two evenly
matched teams went toe-to-toe for 60 minutes. We played
our best rugby in this game and some boys showed great
resolve to fight through sore and tired bodies. Unfortunately,
we were unable to hold on late in the game and lost a close
game, finishing sixth in the tournament. The final score was
a 17-24 loss.
We would like to thank all parents and supporters of the
team this year. The culture of the team, both on and off the
field, was very positive and I wish all the boys well in their
future rugby endeavours.

UNDER 14 WHITE Lindsey Neilson, Ryder Nuku, Jakob Rauhihi–Collis, Joe
Simpson–Smith, Elijah Small, Lisale Talamaivao, Levi
Coach: Mr J. Kendal Timms, Tipene Treacy, Jayme Tupai, Viliami Vakapuna,
Manager: Mrs S. Kendal Toby Weston
Team: Xavier Phillips (Captain), Max Barber, Sam It was a season of improvement for the U14 White team who
Coles, Jonty Fleck, Alastair Fleming, Mason Gerrard, competed in the Manawatu Youth 3 Division. They managed
Jack Gordon, Robert Halatuituia, Zirae Hyde, Rippei to win three of the six games in pool play and fortunately, due
Kaneda, Lawrence Leung-Wai, Zayden Meyers-Giesen, to Tararua defaulting in the final rounds, the team were able

272 | THE PALMERSTONIAN 2017

RUGBY U14 WHITE
Back Row: Lindsey Neilson, Levi
Timms, Alastair Fleming, Sam Coles
3rd Row: Zirae Hyde, Max Barber,
Robert Halatuituia, Elijah Small,
Jayme Tupai
2nd Row: Mrs S. Kendal (Manager),
Jack Gordon, Lisale Talamaivao, Joe
Simpson-Smith, Lawrence Leung Wai,
Mason Gerrard, Toby Weston, Mr J.
Kendal (Coach)
Front Row: Jakob Rauhihi-Collis,
Jonty Fleck, Viliami Vakapuna, Xavier
Phillips, Zayden Meyers-Giesen,
Rippei Kaneda, Ryder Nuku
Absent: Keanu Mason, Tipene Treacy

to make the playoffs (top four). However, this is where the MVP – 1 Point – Xavier Phillips
games became a bit more confrontational for our relatively Most Improved Forward – Max Barber
inexperienced team. Losses to PNBHS Chiefs, Awatapu and Most Improved Back – Jakob Rauhihi-Collis
FAHS left the U14 Whites in fourth place for the season. Best Team Man – Sam Coles

Attitude and attendance at both trainings and games was Mr Kendal stated in his final farewell to the team; “What
always positive and the whole team can be very proud of a pleasure it has been to coach such a committed and
how they conducted themselves throughout the entire enthusiastic bunch of outstanding young men. Goal setting
season. is the key to success and for those of you who are prepared
to set goals and work towards them, there is sure to be a
Certificates were handed out at Prizegiving for the following white jersey in the future. Ngā mihi nui ngā tama.”
awards:

MVP – 3 Points – Mason Gerrard/Jonty Fleck
MVP – 2 Points - Joe Simpson-Smith

RUGBY U14 HALIFAX
Back Row: Brooklyn Reille, Leighton
Edwards, Max Deighton, Tevita
Fonongaloa
3rd Row: Aki Wickes-Matakaiongo,
Lochie Avery, Levi Neilson-Treur,
Tamati Durie-McGrath, Jax Fraser,
Sam Lahmert, Korey Satterthwaite
2nd Row: Miss S. Close (Manager),
Rian Lyver, Luke Brown, Thomas
Mortiboy, Tyrese Fairless, Liam Foss,
Reid Philpott, Mr S. Trembath (Coach)
Front Row: James McKinnon, Aqeel
Butt, Max Meads, Joe Brooks-Bowen,
Matthew Burton, Camryn Caffell,
Trinity Baker
Absent: Sarrason Mitford, Ryan Pale

UNDER 14 HALIFAX Avery and Tavita Fonongaloa provided the front row base,
enabling the powerful Liam Foss, Tyrese Fairless and Thomas
Coaches: Mr B. Grant, Mr G. Allan, Mr S. Trembath Mortiboy to lock the scrums, where countless tight heads
were won each game.
Manager: Miss S. Close
Luke Brown, Max Deighton and Jax Fraser were able to roam
This talented and dedicated team played in the season at will in most games, creating pressure and turnover ball.
ending final of the top four section. They were defeated Both Luke and Max were the leaping lineout players who
by Freyberg 50-17 after trailing by only two points 19-17 ensured Halifax had quality ball for Trinity Baker to distribute
at half-time. The team had earlier in the season defeated or run. Camryn Caffell and Korey Satterthwaite proved to
Freyberg 43-36. be steady, take-it-to-the-line first five-eights. Tamati Durie-
McGrath liaised cunningly with Rian Lyver and Brooklyn
Joe Brooks-Bowen captained the team throughout the Reille, engineering many well-executed moves that resulted
season. His very determined physical style set the standard in tries. Reid Philpott, Sam Lahmert, James McKinnon and
for the team. Aki Wickes-Matakaiongo, Matt Burton, Lochie

2017 THE PALMERSTONIAN | 273

Max Meads all thrived on the wing, both on attack and The highlight of the season was the 88-14 defeat of Kia Toa
defence. after losing 14-15 to them in the first round. Trinity Baker
was selected to join the U14A PNBHS tournament team.
Leighton Edwards was a steady full back and substitute The management and coaching team thank all parent and
winger. Aqeel Butt started as a winger and ended the season caregiver support received throughout the season. They
as a flanker. It was great to welcome Levi Neilson-Treur predict that many of these players will possibly play for ‘A’
back to our team for the last few games. He was a quick, grade PNBHS teams before they depart. We will watch their
elusive loose forward, having previously played as a back. progress with pride.
The manager was Miss Shayla Close who ensured team
communication was maintained. Mr Bryce Grant, Mr Greg Statistics - Games Played: 11 , Won: 7, Lost: 4, Points For:
Allan and Mr Stu Trembath coached the team using many 487, Points Against: 265
fun activities to maintain interest and skill level improvement.

UNDER 14 WANDERERS four. Despite our indifferent early season form, the boys lifted,
and playing their best rugby of the season, were able to finish
Coach: Mr G. Atkin at the top of the bottom four competition.

Team: Liam Adolf, Liam Allen, Ethan Anderson, Alex While results wise the season was disappointing, it was
Argyle, Ben Beard,William Burlison, Cullen Cross, Astle pleasing to see the character displayed by the young men
Entwistle-Truscott, Jake Flanagan, Thomas Fowell, in the side, who continued to turn up for training and games
Josh Herd, Liam Macdonald, Harvey Mills, Jeremy and consistently gave their best effort. It is often when things
Newland, Ben Nixon, Nathan Pearson, Lachlan Phyn, don’t go to plan and we don’t get the results that we had
North Pisanuwong, Ben Robinson, George Simpson, hoped for that we learn the most about ourselves. Many
Will Turner, Matt Whiteman. of the young men in the team will be able to reflect on a
difficult season, but one in which they made progress both
The Wanderers Rugby team faced a difficult 2017 season in as individuals and as rugby players. A small number do still
theYouth 5 grade. During the initial round robin competition, have a few things to learn about the nature of commitment
we were involved in many very high scoring matches; some when they are part of a team.
we were competitive in, while in others the score went very
much against us. At the conclusion of the round robin, the A fantastic initiative was the appointment of Old Boy
competition was broken into a separate top four and bottom and former All Black Mr. Bruce Hemara into the role of

274 | THE PALMERSTONIAN 2017

RUGBY U14 WANDERERS
Back Row: North Pisanuwong,
Lachlan Phyn, William Burlison, Matt
Whiteman
3rd Row: Ben Robinson, Ben Beard,
Dylan Simpson, Thomas Fowell,
Ethan Anderson
2nd Row: Jeremy Newland, Nathan
Pearson, Jake Flanagan, Liam
Macdonald, Astle Entwistle-Truscott,
Will Turner, Mr G Atkin (Coach)
Front Row: Josh Herd, Liam Allen,
Liam Adolf (Co-Captain), Harvey
Mills (Co-Captain), Alex Argyle (Co-
Captain), Ben Nixon, Cullen Cross

Rugby Development Officer at team; well done on your efforts throughout the season and
PNBHS, and we were fortunate to I hope to see you all in the blue and white of Palmy Boys’
have the benefit of his expertise next season.
and experience at a number of
trainings during the season.

While I am reluctant to single
out individuals for special praise
in a team environment, there
are certainly some young men
whose contributions were
pivotal to the team’s overall
performance. Liam Adolf and
Liam Macdonald were fast, elusive and powerful with the
ball in hand and scored many tries between them. Josh
Herd’s goal kicking developed throughout the season and
proved significant in the outcome of a couple of matches.
Alex Argyle and Harvey Mills, as Year 10 students, provided
leadership and a ruthless edge on the field, while Cullen
Cross belied his physical stature to consistently turn in great
performances. North Pisanuwong joined the team part way
through the season from Bangkok and proved to be a real
asset with his skilful and aggressive approach.

Thank you to the many parents who supported us each
week. Having a positive sideline culture is essential and it is
the supporters who create this. To the young men in the

2017 THE PALMERSTONIAN | 275

RUGBY U14 HARLEQUINS
Back Row: Fergus Congdon, Henry
Bayliss, Oliver Olsen, ‘Ofa Kilisimasi,
Troy Smith
2nd Row: Ihaia McGregor, Charlie
Lourie, Darby Falk, Josh Rautahi, Mr
S. Henderson (Coach)
Front Row: Lisiate Kilisimasi, Sam
Brodie, Jarred Weatherhead, Aung
Pai Soe Aung, Arthur George
Absent: Feite Anitelea, Liam
Bremner, Ben Havord, Riley Hudson,
Vince Tahiwi-MacMillan, Bailey
Thompson, Jackson Woolley

UNDER 14 HARLEQUINS Kilisimasi, Lisiate Kilisimasi, Charlie Lourie, Ihaia
McGregor, Oliver Olsen, Josh Rautahi, Troy Smith,
Coach: Mr S. Henderson Vince Tahiwi-MacMillan, Teagan Taumatauka, Bailey
Thompson, Jackson Woolley
Team: Sam Brodie (Co-Captain), Jarred Weatherhead
(o-Captain), Feite Anitelea, Aung Pai Soe Aung, The U14 Harlequins were placed into the Youth 5 Division
Henry Bayliss, Liam Bremner, Fergus Congdon, Darby of the Manawatu Rugby competition. The season would see
Falk, Arthur George, Ben Havord, Riley Hudson, ‘Ofa

276 | THE PALMERSTONIAN 2017

some magnificent tries scored. Sam Brodie, Oliver Olsen and the reliable work up front was Josh Rautahi, Henry Bayliss,
Darby Falk were often at the forefront of breaking through Jared Weatherhead and Troy Smith. With commitment and
the defensive line with strong runs on attack. Defensively, Ofa training, a number of players in this rugby team are capable
and Lisiate Kilisimasi were strong in the midfield. Tasked with of progressing into higher rugby teams in the years ahead.

UK RUGBY DEVELOPMENT TOUR afternoon. Straight away, and in what was to be a trend
for the entire tour, two distinct groups emerged. Those
Staff: Mr L. Calton, Mr B. Greer, Mr J. Moore, Mr P. for whom JD, Sports Direct and any associated shoe store
Johnson, Mr B. van Stipriaan became the go to (i.e. all the boys) and those for whom the
quest for anything resembling a decent coffee (i.e. the staff )
Tour Leader: Greg Shaw became the driving factors. Both were used as exceptionally
convenient excuses to also walk the streets of the collective
Tour Captain: Tyler Laubscher countries and the 10,000 step rule was blown out of the
water pretty much every day.
In Term 3, a group of 44 students and 5 staff embarked on
a three-week rugby tour of a lifetime, touring the United From York, the team travelled to the beauty that is Edinburgh
Kingdom and Ireland and playing seven games along the and 32 hours after landing in Manchester (and 30 minutes
way. The aims of the tour were as much around rugby after getting off the four-hour bus journey), we were playing
development as they were around providing wonderful our first game against two of the top schools in Scotland –
opportunities for the young men to see a part of the world George Watsons for the 1st XV and George Heriots for the
that most had only seen on the internet. In this regard, it Development team. Both teams played very good rugby
would be fair to say that the young men themselves proved and, with fifteen minutes to go, were in the hunt. However,
to be outstanding tourists. Any chance to witness the sights the travel schedule (and the unique rules around 18 year olds
and sounds – some iconic and ancient, and some new and not playing) was a bridge too far and both teams went down.
bold – were gratefully received by the boys. Indeed, there That night, and the next day, was spent in Edinburgh. The
were times when they needed to be told to stay in so that city at night and the Royal Mile and Castle were particularly
they could save their legs for the tough rugby games ahead. impressive and the group put the travel behind them and
embraced all that the Scots had to offer.
The group started it’s adventure landing in Manchester
and then bussing to the fortress city of York for their first

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Our next travel destination was Belfast and Dublin via ferry. Following the game, it was straight into London. Arriving into
The mini tour through Belfast and the Peace Walls were the capital at night time as the lights are taking effect is pretty
a sombre reminder of what we take for granted in New daunting for us Kiwis from the backwaters, and we knew the
Zealand, as was the “crossing” between the Protestant and next day was going to be special. The day in London had
Catholic areas. Onwards to Dublin and we met our first been long awaited. While the boys again continued their fair
billets for the tour at Castleknock School. We were superbly share of purchasing, the stories and the photos suggested
hosted by a school gaining a foothold in the strong Leinster that the priority for the day had been seeing as much as
Secondary School landscape, and the ensuing games were was humanly possible. Again, to their absolute credit, the
a good marker for where we wanted to be after getting our young men ensured that no stone was left unturned and a
tour “legs”. Both teams played exceptionally well, with two full day was had by all.
wins and a number of Year 11 boys putting their hand up
for the 1st XV. This was to become commonplace as the The next day saw a morning in Westfield, the largest
tour progressed – an exciting result of the development shopping mall in the Northern Hemisphere, before heading
that has been occurring over the last three years within the out to Campion School in Essex. Once again, we found
rugby community. ourselves superbly hosted and played two extremely tough
games. The Development team held on for a well-deserved
We remained in Dublin and transferred our boys over to victory and the 1st XV surrendered a 22 point lead before
the care of the perennially strong Blackrock College. The coming back and almost snatching the victory at the end.
days were spent sampling the Dublin landscape, including It was a funny sort of a game that saw us outscore the
the Aviva Stadium, and the game against the top-rated opposition five tries to three, but panic a little bit when
opposition and their Leinster Academy representatives composure was needed.
loomed large on the horizon. In what was to be a watershed
moment for both teams, our young men unleashed From Essex to Brighton. Light work was made of the
themselves on the might of Blackrock with such physicality amusement park on the iconic Brighton Pier and, despite
that it had to be seen to be believed. Indeed, all four the end being in sight, we almost had to rein the boys in
changing rooms afterwards resembled A and E wards and to try and save some energy for the last game against the
the injury toll from the game was scarcely believable. While unknown quantity of Seaford College.
both sides lost, the level of ‘enjoyment’ and satisfaction
amongst all involved regarding their performances was Once again, we were blown away by the sights along
deservedly high. However, three games in six days had taken the way to Seaford and then the school itself is beyond
its toll and we had four players out with tour-ending injuries words. Located in the midst of a 400 hectare National Park,
following the opening stanza. the school has a mansion (yes, an actual mansion) as its
centrepiece and is surrounded by native flora and fauna. It
We left Ireland and made our way to Wales via the seaside has fields that slope in all directions and the Development
village of Borth and a recovery swim in the North Sea. team played on a pitch that seemingly had a two metre
Speedos were the order of the day and many a fine wave drop off from one corner to the other. But it was all accepted
was caught. From Borth to the Llandoverry School, a school and with the mansion as the backdrop, no one was going
in the heart of the Snowden National Park. The trip through to complain. Both teams had stunning wins here and the
the valleys was awe inspiring and was a great lead in to our playing component of the tour ended on an absolute high.
fourth game in eight days. Played in conditions more akin
to the Winter we had escaped from, the Development team Back to London for the last day and a chance for more
continued its progression and were far too strong for their sightseeing and shopping was welcomed with open arms.
counterparts. The 1st XV continued on from their physicality
of the Blackrock game and overcame a very strong team Upon our return, I was asked for some highlights. Without
infront of Old Boy, Hadleigh Parkes. any shadow of a doubt, the absolute highlight for me was
the attitude and behaviour of our young men. It was an
From Llandoverry to Newport, and finally a break in the honour to be on tour with them and to be associated with
playing schedule with two days in Cardiff and the famed them. The manner in which they embraced the concept of
shopping of Bridgend. Once again, the group were being tourists and the thirst they had to see all and do all
outstanding tourists and one rugby shop in particular got an was an absolute pleasure to be a part of. The style of rugby
absolute hammering. We also toured the‘Big Pit’, a coal mine both teams played is a template for the future and that future
one hour from Cardiff. To hear stories of 4-5 year olds working is exciting. Closely following this would be the people we
in the depths of the mines again provided the boys with a met along the way. You can have all the facilities a private
dose of reality, as did travelling 100 metres underground with school affords you but, at the end of the day, your school
a lift/cage that seemed to have a mind of its own. is only as good as the staff and students. In this regard, we
were fortunate to visit some superb schools. When all this
Following our mini break, we travelled back to England for is happening amongst the backdrop that is the splendour
a night in Cheddar (yes, where the cheese originated from) of the buildings and land that is the United Kingdom, how
before meeting our hosts at Millfield School. This school is can you not have a good time.
a fabled school from previous tours, with stories of 50 metre
swimming pools and golf courses. Suffice it to say that it There are some massive ‘thank you’s’ that need to be made.
did not disappoint and the boys had their eyes opened by Primary amongst this is the organisation that was done by
what $72,000 in school fees per year can get you. Indeed, Mr Lindsay Calton prior to and whilst on tour. Mr Calton is a
they had a unique insight when they participated in a mini legend amongst PNBHS and if this was his swansong, then
tournament of Golf, Indoor Tennis and Fencing (of the sword his legacy will stand for all time. He was ably assisted by
variety – not the agricultural variety). The afternoon saw two the staff, with Mr Johnson’s local knowledge in particular
very spirited games and two victories. Again, the nature of providing special memories. To the parents who made all
play was massively heartening for the future, with the young of this possible, one hopes your sons have done the right
guns in particular enjoying the fruits the forward packs were thing upon their return and the gifts were suitable. To the
providing for them. schools that hosted us, this tour is not possible without your
efforts. To our sponsors and those that contributed to our
fundraising efforts, we are in your debt. And finally to the

2017 THE PALMERSTONIAN | 279

boys, you were quite simply superb. To you, my final word Llandoverry (Wales) W 24 – 12
would be to paraphrase Mr Calton. You have set yourselves a
new standard and, in doing so, many of you have left behind Millfield (England) W 40 – 26
who you were. Maintain this new standard and lift it again
and again. You have a duty to do this, not only to yourselves Campion (England) L 27 – 28
but to PNBHS Rugby.
Seaford (England) W 36 – 0

Development XV vs:

George Heriots (Scotland) L 25 – 31

RESULTS: Castleknock (Ireland) W 33 – 5

Blackrock (Ireland) L 15 – 22

1st XV vs: Llandoverry (Wales) W 43 – 0
George Watsons (Scotland)
Castleknock (Ireland) L 10 - 29 Millfield (England) W 54 – 20
Blackrock (Ireland) W 42 – 19
L 13 – 27 Campion (England) W 21 – 17

Seaford (England) W 42 - 5

WORLD’S BIGGEST SCRUM

On 29 June, as part of the Palmerston North City ‘Winter Black Ferns fullback, Selica Winiata, fed the ball intothe scrum.
Festival’ and the promotion to lure British and Irish Lions The oldest participant was Pauline Scott, 84, an ardent rugby
rugby fans to Palmerston North, we had the opportunity for fan from Rongotea, while the youngest was two-year-old
our young men to take part in an attempt to set the‘World’s Oliver Silver from Palmerston North.
Biggest Scrum’. While there were many different community
groups represented, and a small number of touring rugby This was a great community event that we were proud to
fans who got involved, the majority of the 1758 participants support and we were thrilled in early August to receive
were our young men. notification that the world record had been verified and
Palmerston North was officially the home of the ‘World’s
The scrum was refereed by Palmerston North Boys’ High Biggest Scrum’.
School teacher and rugby referee, Mr Duncan Liengme, and

280 | THE PALMERSTONIAN 2017

RUGBY SEVENS

RUGBY SEVENS SENIOR A
Back Row: Jacob Hewetson-Talamaivao, Jackson Scully, Cail Terry, Carson Hepi, Korie Winters
2nd Row: Mr P. Finch (Trainer), Mr J Meehan (Assistant Coach), Tyler Laubscher, Isaiah Su’a, Mr J. Kendal (Coach), Mrs S.
Kendal (Manager)
Front Row: Ethan Johanson, Stewart Cruden, Sam Stewart, William Treder, Jardyn Tamati
Absent: Mackenzie Tansley, James Woodmass, Ethan Helu-Makasini

SENIOR A of an A side who then tackled the two main tournaments
for the summer: the Sir Gordon Tietjens’ Tournament and
Coaches: Mr J. Kendal, Mr P. Finch, Mr J. Meehan the Manawatu/Horowhenua Qualifying Tournament for the
Manager: Mrs S. Kendal National BNZ Condors Rugby 7’s Tournament.
Team: Stewart Cruden (Captain), Ethan Helu-Makasini, In typical windy Palmerston North conditions, PNBHS hosted
Carson Hepi, Jacob Hewetson-Talamaivao, Ethan the Sir Gordon Tietjens’ 7’s Tournament at the Sport and
Johnason, Tyler Laubscher, Jackson Scully, Sam Rugby Institute, Massey University. A strong start to the
Stewart, Isaiah Su’a, Jardyn Tamati, Mackenzie tournament against Freyberg saw the team come away
Tansley, CailTerry,WilliamTreder, KorieWinters, James with a 41 - 0 win. There was plenty of running rugby which
Woodmass allowed senior players, Mackenzie and Sam, to score two tries

The end of 2016 finished in great fashion with the team,
plus a few Year 13 students from 2016, winning the Bowl
section of the National BNZ Condors Rugby 7’s Tournament
in Auckland. Although they were in a tough pool featuring
Hastings Boys’, Tauranga Boys’ and Rangitoto College, the
boys fought hard to take the win against Rangitoto. On Day
2 (the playoffs), the boys stuck together and managed wins
over several big Auckland sides: Aorere College in the quarter
finals, De La Salle College in the semi-finals and finally, Mt
Roskill Grammar in the final. Thanks and a special mention
must go to Matene Ruawai and Te Ariki Te Puni who worked
tirelessly for PNBHS 7’s during their time at school – they
remained loyal and kept intact the mana of our school.

The season started up again in February and the teams were
quickly put to work. Two teams went away to Hawke’s Bay
for a couple of warm-up tournaments before the choosing

2017 THE PALMERSTONIAN | 281

Central Hawke’s Bay Sevens Tournament
apiece. Korie, Ethan Helu-Makasini and William also added
to the total in a convincing manner. Game 2 involved an
ever improving Hato Paora side who were not to be taken
lightly. Our boys fought well and strong games came from
the forwards with both Tyler and Isaiah scoring in the first half.
Two more tries were added by Sam and William. Final score
22 – 5. The final game of the evening was against Feilding,
under lights. Feilding starting strongly with plenty of pace
and managed to score two tries. However, near the end of
the first half, Sam used his skill, stepping through the defence
to take us into the break 12-5. The second half was action
packed and drama filled. Isaiah went to the line to even the
score, but, unfortunately, Feilding hit back and once again
and took the lead. In the closing moments, after the boys
had worked hard for an extended period of time and Feilding
were given a number of penalties, we were finally awarded
a penalty try. This ended the game in a 19 -19 draw. On Day
2, the quarter final was played against Scots College. This
was another game that went down to the wire. Scots were

a powerful team who spent much of the time busting up
the middle. However, PNBHS were not intimidated by the
big boys. It was an even match with Scots scoring in the
dying moments. However, the Palmerston North wind was
to finally have an up-side when the conversion from out in
front of the posts was surprisingly missed, leaving our team
euphoric with a 12-10 win. In the semi-final against Tauranga,
the boys were outclassed and outnumbered after losing two
players to injury throughout the two days. Tauranga won
35 – 0. The 3rd/4th play-off game saw us face Feilding once

282 | THE PALMERSTONIAN 2017

10-7 up. However, sheer exhaustion took its toll and the boys
were unable to hold out Feilding when they brought three
sets of fresh legs on in the second half. Final score 26 - 10.
Congratulations to Tyler Laubscher and Stewart Cruden who
were named in the Sir Gordon Tietjens’7’s Tournament Team.

The Manawatu/Horowhenua Qualifying Tournament for the
National BNZ Condors Rugby 7’s Tournament was held in
Levin. The team started their pool play against Paraparaumu
College. The first half was tight, and we went into the break
10 – 7 up. However, in the second half, the team’s fitness
showed and another two tries were scored to put us infront
22-7. Unfortunately, Ethan Helu-Makasini received a head
knock and was withdrawn from the tournament. The team
continued on with 11. Waiopehu, the host school, were the
second pool opponents. William ran in two nice tries in the
first half and, with no reply from our opponents, the half-
time score was 12-0. The team used their game plan more
cohesively in the second half and managed to finish with
the score the same as the previous game: 22-7. The third
pool game was against the ever improving Manukura. It was
a tough battle and the try scoring was even, but Manukura
managed the win by kicking both of their conversions. Final
score: 12-14. This left the team in a position where they
needed to contemplate the outcome and consider where
improvements could be made heading into the semi-final.
Finishing second in Pool B meant that they would face
Feilding in the semi-final. At half-time, the score was even
– it was a battle. However, Feilding emphatically gained
momentum in the second half and went away with the win
24 – 7. The team can be proud of the way they conducted
themselves throughout this tournament. Although not
finishing in the top two, the boys showed real mana and
pride. Next year, they will need to maintain composure to
make it through to the National Tournament.

The team certainly had a busy season and are to be
congratulated on the way they trained and conducted
themselves at tournaments. A big thank you to our coaches;
Mr Kendal, Mr Finch and Mr Meehan who gave a lot of their
time and expertise to make PNBHS a highly competitive
school in 7’s Rugby.

again. The boys were battered and bruised after a gruelling Tyler Laubscher at the Samoa International 7’s Training
two days, and unfortunately we had to start the final game Camp in Mount Maunganui
of the tournament with only nine players. Pride played a
major part in the boys’ efforts and they went into the break

2017 THE PALMERSTONIAN | 283

RUGBY SEVENS U15A
Back Row: Brody Zander, Tavita
Henare-Schuster, Kaleb Terry
2nd Row: Mr M. Love (Coach), Logan
Hughes, Elyjah Crosswell, Josh
Viljoen, Kalis Mason, Toby Hunter, Mr
A. Rehutai (Coach)
Front Row: Jordan Viljoen, Hunta
Boyes, Reif Dawson, Lafo Takiari-Ah
Ching, Logan Love
Absent: Malaki Masoe

SMALLBORE SHOOTING

Coaches: Mr K. Syme, Mr C. Welch Secondary Schools Competition with our A team, gaining
fourth place.
This year has witnessed a large increase in the number of
students choosing to join the PNBHS Smallbore Shooting To wind up our season, our ‘A’ Team competed in the New
Club. At the end of Term 1, and prior to the start of the season Zealand Secondary School Smallbore event.
in Term 2, 56 students registered an interest. However, as
other Winter codes commenced, this number dropped to This year’s competition was held in Palmerston North, at
a regular attendance of 13 students on Tuesday afternoons the MSRA range in Totara Road, over the first weekend of
and 26 students on Wednesday afternoons. Nevertheless, the Term 3/4 holiday break. Twenty-two teams and their
39 regular shooting members is double the number of accompanying support personnel from the North and South
competitors than in previous years. Islands attended, which was an increase on the previous year.

We are grateful to the PTA for their donation last year which The PNBHS team, consisting of Harry Kinghorn, Shaun
enabled us to purchase much needed jackets, slings and Jeffery and Lochie McNair, completed their practice shoots
gloves, all of which has been in regular use throughout the on Friday and early Saturday morning prior to the start of
season. the main events.

The school has been able to compete in several national The results of the first competitive round ranks both schools
and regional competitions. A large number of members and individuals. The top ten individuals (plus two shooting
were entered into the Target Shooting New Zealand Postal reserves) from the North Island schools then compete
Competition, which proved to be a great experience for against the top 12 shooters from the South Island schools.
some of our new students.
PNBHS came fifth in this round, which is a significant
Our school ‘A’ team entered the National SSS Postal improvement on last year’s result.
Competition and acquitted themselves well. Lachie McNair
was placed third overall. Additionally, Lochie achieved second place and Shaun 11th
place (shooting reserve), and both were included in the
Two teams travelled to complete in the Masterton Open North Island team.

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SMALLBORE SHOOTING
Back Row: James Carmichael, Corbin Culver, Jack Hancock, Brodie Marshall, Joe Fayerman
3rd Row: Ben Whiteman, Hawaiki Taonui, Gibson de Lautour, Justin Marshall, James Busby, David Murphy, Lachie
McNair, Alistair Hardie, Rhys Swarbrick
2nd Row: Mr K. Syme (Coach), Ryan Hirst, Roland Clayton, Shaun Jeffery, Harry Kinghorn, Roman Jensen, Liam Prichard,
Vincent Robinson, Alex Millar, Mr C.J. Welch (Coach)
Front Row: Oli Toomey-Jakobs, Leighton Edwards, Anton Campbell, Ben Duck, Jayden Glentworth, Max Clough, Hayden
Bell, Thomas van Stipriaan, Cullen Cross

The North v South competition was won by the South,
however Lochie achieved a sufficiently high score to be
included in the New Zealand Team. This team, comprising
the top twelve shooters from the North v South competition,
went on to shoot against the U.K. in a postal match.

Shaun went on to successfully lift The Plate trophy by
competing in a mixed nine-student team.

Scores:

Competiton Harry Lochie Shaun

1 275.5 293.15 285.8

NvS - 191.3 187.0

NZ v UK - 192 -

Plate 191.6 - 196.6

Many of our newer members have shown potential to Congratulations to our outstanding shooters this year, Lachie
progress in this sport and I encourage them to re-sign next McNair and Shaun Jeffery.
year. Shooters will benefit significantly by joining a local
club in addition to the school’s club. Here, shooters have the Our season has now finished but will recommence at the
opportunity to develop their skills more rapidly through one start of Term 2 next year. Thank you to all who have attended,
on one coaching. Having your own gear also makes a great helped out and contributed to our sport.
difference to consistency.

SNOWSEEKERS

Coach: Mr R. Jochem travelled up to Ohakune for the North Island Secondary
Managers: Ms J. Mann, Mr D. Waters School Snowboard Competition. The team was made up of
Alec Pedersen, George Alabaster, Jonny Taylor, Jack Peden
SNOWBOARDING and Richard Bell, with Ski Marshalls William Chilman-Fischer
and Kurtis Brind. The team was managed by Mr Waters and
On Sunday 24 September, the PNBHS Snowboard team

2017 THE PALMERSTONIAN | 285

SNOWSEEKERS
Back Row: Edward Chilman-Fischer, William Chilman-Fischer, Harrison Booth
2nd Row: Alec Pedersen, Mr D. Waters (Manager), Sam Oakden, Tyler Shaw, Jack Harvey, Mr R. Jochem (Coach), Ms J.
Mann (Manager), Richard Bell
Front Row: Zac Farmer, Jack Peden, Jonny Taylor, Henry Robertson, Oliver Sexton, Troy Bradley, Matt Shaw

Ms Mann and we stayed at the Rangitikei Ski Lodge with
the Napier Boys’ High School Snowboard team and their
manager.

The alarm went off early on Monday morning and we set off
up to the Turoa Ski Field for the first day of the competition.
The day was to be comprised of two out of the three different
categories: slope style and slalom. The boys performed well
and enjoyed competing, but unfortunately none of the
boys made it through to the top 20 (finals). The mountain
was closed at midday due to poor weather, so we packed
up and headed back to the Ski Lodge for the rest of the day.
The next day, the mountain was closed, again due to poor
weather. Instead, the finals for slope style and slalom could
not be completed. This meant that the day was spent at the
Lodge, relaxing by the fire and I am sure the boys were all
thinking about how they would much rather be at school!
The prizegiving for part of the events were held that night
at Ruapehu College and followed by a games night where
some of the boys got a chance to mix and mingle with some
girls! On the following day, we departed for home.

Overall, the weather was very poor, but it was a great trip
for us to bond and make friends with the boys from Napier.
I would like to say a huge thank you to Mr Waters and Ms
Mann for looking after the Snowboard team both on day trips
and throughout the term, and also for the great trip during
North Islands. You made the trips very enjoyable, thanks!

By Richard Bell

SKIING

On Saturday 16 September, the PNBHS A and B team left
to Ohakune for the North Island Secondary School Ski
Championships on Turoa Ski Field. The A Team consisted
of Jack Harvey, Matt Shaw, Sam Oakden, Edward Chilman-
Fischer and Oliver Sexton. The B Team consisted of Kurtis

286 | THE PALMERSTONIAN 2017

Brind, Troy Bradley, Harrison Booth and William Chilman- and enjoyable for everyone involved. Hopefully next season
Fischer, with a management team of Mr Waters and Mr will be just as great.
Jochem.

The first day of races, Monday, was postponed to Tuesday
and Wednesday due to poor conditions and a lack of open
lifts. So we spent the day in the lodge playing cards and
board games, giving some boys a bit of cabin fever. Our
wait was well rewarded with amazing conditions on Tuesday
morning, with quite a few centimetres of fresh snow and a
bluebird morning with patchy clouds in the afternoon, a
perfect day for the GS races. The track had tight turns and
a few icy patches that caught a few boys off guard. Jack
Harvey got seventh in the Senior Men’s and Matt Shaw got
22nd in the Junior Men’s. Wednesday was another superb
day with mainly the same conditions as the day before. This
was when the dual slalom races were held. Unfortunately,
due to miscommunication, a few boys missed their race, but
overall the boys performed well with many beating their
opponents. We left the mountain at 2:30pm with everyone
pleased after two days of skiing.

Overall, it was a great trip that all the boys enjoyed. The
conditions were at their peak of the season and both teams
gave their all. On behalf of the team, I would like to extend
a big thank you to Chris, our ski instructor throughout the
season, and to Mr Waters, Ms Mann and Mr Jochem for
organizing all the weekly trips and giving up their personal
time to put up with us. The trips were very well managed

SQUASH

SQUASH DIVISION 1
Back Row: Mark Anderson, Sam Fletcher, Alan Kirk, Thornton Ropiha
3rd Row: Sam Mullinger, Liam Destounis, Connor Philpot, Richard Bell, Tom Bowie, Camryn Mabey
2nd Row: Mr C. Bester (Manager), Mr H. Drake (Manager), Shahmeer Ahmed, Ethan Baldwin, Gregor McIntosh, Patric
Truebridge, Mr D. Waters (Manager), Mr D. Pegler (Manager)
Front Row: Connor Fortuin, Josh Van Rynbach, Paul Kaiser, Corbin Faint, George Mikkelsen, Matthew Adshead, Tristan
Vignes
Absent: Jordan Bell

2017 THE PALMERSTONIAN | 287

Teacher in Charge: Mr D. Waters SQUASH SENIOR A
Interest in playing Squash at school remains high with around Back Row: Richard Bell, Jordan Bell, Mr D. Waters (Coach)
100 students actively participating in the sport in 2017. This Front Row: George Mikkelsen, Matthew Adshead,
year has seen a few changes with the High Performance Thornton Ropiha
Squash programme at PNBHS. The boys involved saw a Absent: Corbin Faint
change of coach at the SquashGym Academy, with Nick
Mita taking over from Kashif Shuja. Some students have Liston College, and in doing so, qualified for the quarter final
continued working with Kashif and we are grateful to both on that Saturday morning.
coaches for helping out our players. The boys have access to
some of the best coaches and arguably the best facility in the This quarter final was against a strong Hamilton Boys’ High
country right here on our doorstep. We are very fortunate to School team and everyone played well to secure a 5 matches
have such a good relationship with our local club and some to 0 win and a place in the Saturday afternoon semi-final. This
special thanks needs to be mentioned to Kelly Faint, Grant semi-final was against the second seeded St Paul’s College
Watts, Danielle Fourie and all others involved for helping and, although the team played well and the matches were
our players to reach their potential. Providing a pathway to close, they lost this fixture and went through to the third
reaching the highest level available is the main priority of and fourth playoff against another strong rival; Tauranga
both PNBHS Squash and the SquashGym Academy. Boys’ College.
From a school perspective, Corbin Faint (Club Captain)
finishes Year 13 this year with a very competent Secondary The playoff on Sunday morning for third place was a close
School Squash portfolio behind him. Corbin has been our encounter against the Tauranga team. First up was Matt
number one player over recent years and was named as Adshead (Number 4). Matt had a tough five set match against
Captain of the New Zealand Secondary Schools team for the a higher graded player and ended up losing a close game
second year in a row. Our congratulations and best wishes go in the fifth set. Richard Bell (Number 3) played very well to
to Corbin with his future Squash career. All remaining players secure this match in three sets, as did Corbin Faint (Number
in this year’s Senior A team will be back for next season. 1), which gave the team a 2-1 lead. George Mikkelson
(Number 5) struggled in the first two sets against a higher
NEW ZEALAND SECONDARY SCHOOL graded opponent, however clawed his way back to 2 all. It
NATIONAL SQUASH TOURNAMENT was another close battle, resulting in a loss, and so the team
SENIOR A was 2 all going into the final match. Jordan Bell (Number
2) was up against a player that was a similar grade and we
Coach: Mr D. Waters were expecting another close encounter. Jordan, however,
Team: Corbin Faint (Captain), Matt Adshead, Jordan followed the commanding performances of Richard and
Bell, Richard Bell, George Mikkelsen, Thornton Ropiha Corbin and beat his opponent in three sets, meaning a
(Reserve). 3-2 win for the team and an overall placing of third for the
The PNBHS Senior A Squash team played in the New tournament.
Zealand Secondary Schools National Squash Tournament
in Palmerston North again this year. The team was seeded
third in a field of 32 boys teams from around the country.
The team played two games on Friday, beating the two lower
seeded teams comfortably, Marlborough Boys’ College and

288 | THE PALMERSTONIAN 2017

The team played exceptionally well throughout the MANAWATU SECONDARY SCHOOLS
tournament and showed good spirit and sportsmanship SQUASH COMPETITION
throughout all matches. All of the team played to their
potential and can be proud of their accomplishment. This year we had over 90 students playing squash, with 20
teams involved in the Manawatu Seconday Schools Squash
SENIOR B Competition in four divisions. We did very well, WINNING
all of them.
Coach: Mr P. Gibbs
Division One:
Team: Mark Anderson, Josh Brownrigg, Ashton Emeny,
Sam Fletcher, Connor Fortuin, Camryn Mabey, Flynn BEARS
Roche
Manager: Mr C. Bester
The Senior B team was seeded 25th out of 32 teams for Team: Corbin Faint (Captain), Matthew Adshead,
Nationals. In the first round, the team lost 5-0 to eighth- Jordan Bell, Richie Bell, George Mikklesen
seeded Whangarei Boys’ High School on Friday morning.
The team bounced back later in the day with a convincing The Bears proved to be unstoppable with the team easily
4-1 win over Taupo-nui-aTia College, who were seeded 24th. winning not only all their matches, but also winning all
their individual games. As a result, the team won the MSSS
On Saturday morning, the team suffered a narrow 2-3 loss to Competition for Division One when they defeated PNBHS
St Paul’s Collegiate B, with Sam Fletcher and Connor Fortuin Badgers in the final.
winning their matches. On Saturday night, the fixture was
decided in the very last match, the team losing to Auckland Corbin (Number 1) once again showed compassion on the
Grammar B. Again, Sam and Connor won their matches. court and frequently helped his opponent to play better
squash. A word of thanks to Corbin for his years at this
In their final game on Sunday morning, the team produced school as captain and his great attitude towards the other
a great performance to beat Hawera High School 3-2. Sam, players. Jordan has improved considerably as his passion
Connor and Camryn Mabey all won their matches 3-0. Final for the game returned and also frequently showed a lot of
placing 23rd. court craft in his matches. Richie shows his competitiveness
with aplomb and with empathy to his opponents. George
showed class as he controlled his matches and it is a pity that
his opponents could not challenge him enough. Matthew
played with a mischievous smile on his face and was such
a popular player at the courts as he enjoyed to play against
all comers.

SQUASH SENIOR B BADGERS
Back Row: Mark Anderson, Flynn Roache, Mr P. Gibbs
(Coach) Manager: Mr D. Pegler
Front Row: Ashton Emeny, Connor Fortuin, Josh
Brownrigg Team: Ethan Baldwin, Sam Fletcher, Connor Fortuin,
Absent: Camryn Mabey Camryn Mabey, Thornton Ropiha

The Badger team played well this season and only lost to
team Bears and Dragons. Most members turned up on
Wednesday’s with a keen desire to win and play their best
squash. They needed little in the way of management and
were able to sort themselves out and do their duty. Sam
Fletcher showed improvement throughout the competition
and while not number one in the team, his improvement
means he will rise in the ranking next year. Connor Fortuin
was number one and maintained his position. Ethan, while
always keen to do his best, was let down by the lack of tread
on his shoes (an investment needed).

The Badgers beat the Dire Wolves in the semi-finals and were
well beaten by the Bears in the final, ending runners-up in
Division One.

2017 THE PALMERSTONIAN | 289

DRAGONS week and organising a team to play every week should be
commended. He played well and certainly got his monies
Manager: Mr H. Drake worth for the season. Jacob Ogilvie and Luke Murphy did
make it to a few games despite being committed elsewhere.
Team: Mark Anderson, Liam Destounis, Paul Kaiser, The Raccoons were placed last in the division at the end of
Tristan Vignes the competition.

The Dragons performed well in 2017. They were a very REID’S RHINOS
young team, consisting entirely of Year 9, 10 and 11 players.
They were a pleasant and totally reliable team, and are all Manager: Mrs G. Reid
promising squash players.
Team: Sebastian McMillan (Captain), Josh Brownrigg,
The young Dragons players gained valuable experience Corban Kirkman
this season, as they were mostly playing against older, more
experienced players. All team members played in different The Rhinos won the Division Two competition. They were
ranking positions each week. Mark Anderson had the best a committed team, who worked well together and had
win / loss record, with nine wins and five losses. Tristan only one end goal in site – to win! And this, they did well.
Vignes is a promising player and more than held his own in Josh, Corban and Sebastian were reliable and should be
Division One as a Year 9 student. Year 10 student Paul Kaiser commended for their enthusiasm and the energy they
has also made very good progress over his two years playing brought to the squash courts every week. Watching their
secondary school squash (2017 being his first year in Division games was exciting and certainly memorable.
One). Liam Destounis also shows promise and will develop
into a fine player with further experience. MARKS’ MANATEES

At the end of round robin play, the team played off for fifth Manager: Ms P. Marks 
and sixth place against the Wolves, a match that they won
well, 3 matches to 1. This placed them fifth in Division One. Team: Byron Mudgway, Flynn Roache, Ben Roberts

DIRE WOLVES The Manatees started off the season with four players
registered, but three of the team quickly realised they were
Manager: Mr H. Drake unavailable due to commitments to work or other sports.
Byron Mudgway was then joined by Flynn Roache to form
Team: Allan Kirk, Gregor McIntosh, Ahmed Shahmeer, the basis of the team. Players from Marks’Mantas helped out,
Josh Sorensen, Patric Truebridge as did those from other teams; special thanks to Ben Roberts
for his regular support. Byron made noticeable progress
The Dire Wolves were made up of five very reliable, well during the season, while Flynn, as an experienced player, was
organised and pleasant students. They were all capable both reliable and successful, often playing several matches
squash players, who played in different ranking positions per night.
each week.
MARKS’ MANTAS
Results were mixed, but all the students enjoyed their squash.
Gregor McIntosh had the best win / loss record, with 5 wins Manager: Ms P. Marks 
and 4 losses.
Team:  Chris Patrick, Ben Roberts, Josh  Sorensen,
First team tennis player Josh Sorenson could develop into a Quentin Thomas 
very strong squash player.
The Mantas suffered from reduced numbers once the
After the round robin, the team played a strong Girls’ High season started. Chris Patrick, Josh Sorrensen and Quentin
School Blue team for third and fourth, and were defeated to Thomas played regularly, with the support from players from
be placed fourth in the division. the Manatees, and also Ben Roberts. Chris’s commitment
throughout the season was notable, as was his steady
WOLVES improvement. The team played well, but enthusiasm
dwindled as the season progressed and thus their winning
Manager: Ms A. Wong streak came to an end.

Team:Tom Bowie, Sam Mullinger, Connor Philpot, Josh TAYLOR’S TURKEYS
Van Rynbach
Manager: Ms S. Taylor
Expecting a fun and banter-filled season with the boys, this
was a understatement. We encountered massive defeats and Team: Nelson Braddon-Parsons, Denzel Chung, Finlay
marginal wins as we were placed in Division One. Overall, McRae, Matthew Taylor
it was still a really good experience and we enjoyed every
moment of it. We would like to thank Ms Wong for her time The team consisted of four reliable and self-organised young
put in to the team and her chocolate care packages. In men, who arrived at the squash courts each week full of
the end, we got through the season with ease and we all energy and enthusiasm.
definitely look forward to playing next season.
Although not all the young men in the team were
Division Two: experienced at playing squash, they were committed to
REID’S RACCOONS learning the skills and every week showed improvement
and actively supported each other on and off the courts.
Manager: Mrs G. Reid The varying skills within the team meant that some of the
matches were close, with only a difference of one or two
Team: Tom Beard (Captain), Luke Murphy, Jacob points, where others were more clear cut. Unfortunately,
Ogilvie the team did not make the top three teams in their division,
but their enthusiasm, professionalism and loyalty to the team
We started off the season with four members but, owing to should be commended.
being double-booked for the evening with other sports, the
Raccoons soon dwindled down to two or even one player
at times. Tom Beard’s commitment to showing up every

290 | THE PALMERSTONIAN 2017

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Division Three: SYME’S SHARKS & SPRINGBOKS
RANKIN’S RATTLESNAKES
Manager: Mr K. Syme
Manager: Mrs K. Rankin Sharks Team: Nikhil Banerjee, Ajay Bansal, Armad
Team: Henry Boyden,Cameron Edsall, Zac Matthewson- Barzak, Zahn Kielder-Beaumont
Booth, Aidan Thorne SpringboksTeam: Sam Bedford, Zain Ali, Ryan Howard
The Rattlesnakes were all beginning squash players at the and Thomas Sun.
commencement of the season, but extra practice by Zac Both of these teams were highly motivated and organised,
Matthewson-Booth and Aiden Thorne meant that they, as being short of one player on only a couple of occasions.
well as Cameron Edsall and Henry Boyden, ended up being Their commitment to umpiring and support of each other
very competitive at the end of the season. Aiden had two was impressive.
very good wins, one of which was against PNGHS Black. Both teams were highly competitive, with both teams
playing in the finals week.
RANKIN’S RAVENS Unfortunately, the Sharks were runners-up despite a hard-
fought battle on the night.
Manager: Mrs K. Rankin Well done to both teams and especially Thomas Sun who
Team: Suarim Ahmed, Brayden Christian, Christian chased and salvaged many a point with his on court athletics
Montgomery, Triam Tongskul and entertainment.
The Raven’s proved to be a reliable, organised group of
students and the team went from raw beginners at the start Division Four:
of the year to players who showed an ability to command JOCHEM’S JELLYFISH
space on the court and to think tactically about their game.
It was pleasing to see the huge improvement in all of the Manager: Mr R. Jochem
team. Unfortunately, a combination of events meant that Jellyfish Team: Alex Christison, Austen Claasen, Shaheer
the team had to default three of their final four games of the Hussain, Harry Ogilvie
season. This was disappointing as they were both committed The Jellyfish team had a terrific season this year, coming
and punctual throughout the season. first in Division Four. The players attended regularly and

292 | THE PALMERSTONIAN 2017

developed their skills quickly to become the top team in
the division, outperforming the older teams. As the team
manager, these young men were very easy to organise and
were a pleasure to look after each week at the courts. Thank
you to parents who come to pick them up afterwards and
who stayed to watch the games.

JOCHEM’S JACKALS

Manager: Mr R. Jochem
Jackals Team: Jack Fehr, Josh Hooper, Ayham Mustafa,
Leon Nie
The young men in the Jackals formed a social team that
played well each week. The team had various levels of skill
at the beginning of the season, but with regular and reliable
play, they all improved to finish third in Division Four. It
would be good to see this team carry on and play next year.

JAMES’ JUNGLE CATS

Manager: Mr C. James
Team: Will Barnes, Jack Cleland, Ben Roberts
The Jungle Cats were reliable, well-organised and obviously
enjoyed themselves. It was very pleasing to see the
enormous improvement in their skills as the tournament
progressed. The Jungle Cats played consistently well and
deservedly won the Division Four competition. All their
players put in a big effort to improve their skills, especially
their ability to serve effectively, and were very supportive
of each other. Special mention goes to Ben Roberts who
turned up almost every week and was ready and willing to
offer advice to other team members. Their commitment to
umpiring was impressive.

JAMES’ JABIRUS

Manager: Mr C. James
Jabirus: Max Clough, Harrison Conner, JP Rounce-Sue,
Ethan Shingleton
The Jabirus were reliable, well organised and clearly enjoyed
themselves. It was very pleasing to see the enormous
improvement in their skills as the tournament progressed.
The Jabirus played well and achieved eighth position in
Division Four. All members demonstrated real dedication and
Ethan Shingleton played every week, an outstanding effort.
Their commitment to umpiring was impressive. As a team
manager, I found the young men all very easy to organise
and special thanks must go to their parents for taking the
time out to pick them up afterwards and to those who were
able to watch their son play.

2017 THE PALMERSTONIAN | 293

294 | THE PALMERSTONIAN 2017

SWIMMING

SWIMMING
Back Row: Luke Scott, Henry Moir, Adam Martin, Jake Thompson, Oliver Hansen
2nd Row: Louis Morrell, Cameron Gillespie, Ryan Cutler, Stanley Jackson, Michan Hunter, Mr B. Lane (Coach)
Front Row: Levi Holman, Rhys Ransom, Finn Lyon, Kokoro Frost, Campbell Jackson, Blake Storrier, William Leong
Absent: Oliver Inman, Taeler Jennings

Teacher in Charge: Mr B. Lane

Over the year, our boys competed in three Secondary
School Swimming Championships. It was a successful year
with many records set at school, the Manawatu Secondary
School, and North Island Secondary School Championships.

NEW PNBHS RECORDS SET IN 2017
PNBHS records may be set at any of the following swim meets:
PNBHS Swimming Sports, Manawatu Secondary School
Championships, North Island Secondary Championships and
New Zealand Secondary School Championships.

Xavier Hill 2min11.85 sec Individual Record Breakers were:
200m Open Medley 1min 01.13 sec Xavier Hill: 200m Butterfly by 11 seconds; 100m Breaststroke
100m Open Medley 1 min 5.87 sec by 2 seconds (also breaking the School Record); and 100m
100m Breaststroke 16yrs and over Individual Medley (breaking the School Open Record). 
50m Breaststroke 16yrs and over 30.33 sec Ryan Cutler: 200m Backstroke by 10 seconds; 50m
Ryan Cutler 29.27 sec Backstroke; and 100m Backstroke by a considerable margin. 
50m Backstroke 14 years 1min 01.97 sec Michan Hunter: 200m Backstroke by 2 seconds. 
100m Backstroke 14 years 33.02 sec
Jake Thompson The team also set record times in the relay events, breaking
50m Breaststroke 13 years and under the long-lasting Medley Relay (which dated back to 1998)
by 3 seconds, and being the first team in the Manawatu to
MANAWATU SECONDARY SCHOOLS SWIMMING break the 2 minute mark. The team also broke the Freestyle
CHAMPIONSHIPS Relay record by 1 second.
On Saturday 8 March, the Manawatu Secondary School
Swimming Championships were held at the Freyberg
Pool. PNBHS were represented by 23 swimmers. Once
again, we were completely dominant in the Manawatu. On
points alone, we totalled 400 points, while the closest rival
totalled 173. PNBHS achieved 40 first placings, 24 second
placings and 15 third placings. Overall, it was a dominating
performance by our boys. Nine Manawatu Secondary School
records were broken.

2017 THE PALMERSTONIAN | 295

NORTH ISLAND SECONDARY SCHOOLS SWIMMING NEW ZEALAND SECONDARY SCHOOLS SWIMMING
CHAMPIONSHIP CHAMPIONSHIPS
On the 13 May, a team of twelve boys represented PNBHS A team of eight boys travelled to Hamilton on Thursday 14
at the NISS Swimming Championships. The standard and September. The competition ran over three days, with two
number of entries this year was significantly higher than sessions per day for the Friday and Saturday, and a morning
previously. Our boys represented our school as they should, session on the Sunday. Our boys performed well amongst
standing tall and proud, and coming away with fourth the other 650 NZ students. The programme is tight and
position overall. Xavier Hill had an outstanding day, taking runs continuously to time. Self-marshalling was new this
away three NISS records and two Manawatu 16 years records. year, which meant the boys had to be in the right place at
the right time, had no one to check in with, and no one to
Individual Podium Results: indicate where you should be.
Xavier Hill  (16 Years): 1st - 100m Butterfly 57.81s
(NISS record and new Manawatu Boys’16 years record); 1st - Our top placing was a Silver Medal for Ryan Cutler in the
50m Breaststroke 30.33 (NISS record and Manawatu Boys’16 200m Backstroke 15 years. He also placed 4th in the 100m
years record); 1st - 100m Breaststroke 1:05.87 (NISS record); Backstroke (breaking a PNBHS School Record) and 5th in 50m
1st - 50m Butterfly 26.33s. Backstroke (breaking a PNBHS School Record)

Ryan Cutler (14 Years): 1st - 200m Backstroke 2:23.02; 2nd -
200m Freestyle 2:05.3; 2nd - 200m Backstroke 2:23.02; 2nd -
100m Backstroke 1:03.80

Jacob Thompson (14 Years): 2nd - 50m Breaststroke 34.09;
3rd - 200m Breaststroke 2:49.07

Kokoro Frost: 3rd - 50m Freestyle 26.47; 3rd - 100m
Backstroke 1:08.84

Boys’ Medley Relay Team: 3rd

Jake Thompson placed 5th in the 200m Freestyle 14 years,
5th in the 50m Breaststroke (breaking a PNBHS School
Record) and 8th in the 100m Breaststroke.

Our 15 years and under Relay teams were placed 4th and 5th
in both the Medley and Freestyle Relays. Swimmers in these
teams were Ryan Cutler, Kokoro Frost, Jake Thompson,
Campbell Jackson and Levi Holman.

Overall, 22 personal best times were swam by our boys.

296 | THE PALMERSTONIAN 2017

SWIMMING SPORTS RESULTS 2017

Event 1st 2nd 3rd Time

16 Years & Over F Lyon H Eagle S Jackson 27.56
X Hill A Martin F Lyon 58.13
Freestyle 50m M Hunter R Adams J Beattie 30.56
M Hunter A Martin T Tremain 1.09.97
100m C Pomana F Martin H Eagle 38.1
X Hill J Holman N Punnett 1.09.06
Backstroke 50m Phoenix Kia Ora Vernon 57.56
Gordon Kia Ora Phoenix 50.63
100m
27.5
Breaststroke 50m 1.00.69
32.57
100m 1.08.38
40.29
Relay Medley 1.23.28
1.01.80
Frestyle 59.33

15 Years 50m L Morrell J Liu T Donovan 26.19
Freestyle 100m L Morrell O Inman D Flanagan 58.53
50m H Moir J Wenham M Veale 34.94
Backstroke 100m O Inman B Gordon J Ellingham 1.06.03
50m T Donovan K Leask J Wenham 35.22
Breaststroke 100m H Moir S Phillips D Flanagan 1.23.50
Medley Kia Ora Phoenix Murray 1.00.28
Relay Frestyle Murray Albion Vernon 58.03

14 Years 50m T Hansen C Jackson A Jones 28.09
Freestyle 100m R Cutler T Hansen C Jackson 1.01.00
50m M Apperley V Susa R Fleming 38.1
Backstroke 100m R Cutler K Frost M Apperley 1.11.25
50m K Frost T Jennings E Crosswell 38.1
Breaststroke 100m W Leong H Carroll C Hook 1.17.72
Medley Kia Ora Gordon Murray 1.06.73
Relay Frestyle Kia Ora Phoenix Vernon 1.00.19

13 years & Under 26.84
1.01.13
Freestyle 50m J Inman G Petersen L Brown 2.11.85
J Thompson J Inman O Hansen
100m G Petersen N Doolan N Stevens
L Holman D Turrill O Hansen
Backstroke 50m C Pomana F Martin H Eagle
J Thompson L Holman B Storrier
100m Kia Ora Vernon Albion
Murray Kia Ora Albion
Breaststroke 50m
X Hill M Hunter O Inman
100m X Hill C Gillespie M Hunter
X Hill M Hunter C Gillespie
Relay Medley

Frestyle

Open

Butterfly 50m

Medley 100m

200m

Cup Winners

16 Years & Over

Panting Cup Breaststroke Xavier Hill

Barry Street Cup Backstroke Michan Hunter

Old Boys Cup Freestyle Xavier Hill

15 Years

Clere Cup Oliver Inman

14 Years

Minor Intermediate Ryan Cutler

13 years & Under

Langley Cup Jake Thompson

Open

Ross Cup Medley Xavier Hill

Nevin Cup Butterfly Xavier Hill

Club Placings

Kia Ora 1

Phoenix 2

Murray 3

Vernon 4

Gordon 5

Albion 6

2017 THE PALMERSTONIAN | 297

298 | THE PALMERSTONIAN 2017