Papatoetoe Rugby Club’s Under-12 Warriors mixed team and Under-13 Red Diamonds open girls' team are gearing up for an exciting week-long adventure in Brisbane, thanks in part to local board funding.
The seven-day tour to Australia will give the group of young South Auckland players a chance to showcase their skills and gain exposure, taking on more than five matches, that could shape their future.
Getting this far has been an inspiring fundraising journey for the teams and their families, boosted by the generous support from Ōtara-Papatoetoe and Māngere-Ōtāhuhu Local Boards excellence awards.
It included $2,000 in funding which provided players $400 each. Ōtara-Papatoetoe board chair Apulu Reece Autagavaia is proud to see the Awards allow the local board to be more responsive to people who represent the local area at the highest level with excellence.
“The reason why the board created this Award is because we had a lot of applicants needing support for urgent travel to sports tournaments or being invited to present at conferences - but our usual grants process would take too long, that their applications would not qualify,” says Apulu.
"These young players had a successful season and can now expand their sporting experience playing at an overseas tournament.
“We also hope these award recipients come back with experience and skills gained, to continue to serve and lead back home, here in Ōtara-Papatoetoe, whether that's on the sports field, in the classroom, at the lectern at church, on stage, or at home with younger siblings and cousins."
Both boards showed their support for the teams since the players live in both local board areas.
Every month, the Māngere-Ōtāhuhu local board celebrates the outstanding contributions of individuals throughout the area, including sporting achievements.
Chair Tauanu’u Nick Bakulich adds, “These young people are about to embark on what will be the most exciting rugby tour they have experienced to date.
“Touring a different country will bring about the experience normally not seen at this age grade, and we are certain they will learn and grow as a result. The Māngere-Ōtāhuhu Local Board is delighted to assist in the sporting development of these young people.”
Club chairman Luke Mealamu says there's a lot of talent in South Auckland.
“The biggest takeaway is exposure. Ensuring that our children get to see what it's like to play offshore, to get to play internationally against international opposition,” says Mealamu.
"You never know who's watching. And hopefully … someone sees our talent and it goes from there.”
Mealamu estimated each team has raised over $40,000 for the trip, including support from local boards.
“We're forever grateful to the local boards,” says Mealamu.
Luke Mealamu, Chairman of the Papatoetoe Rugby Club (centre), with Club Manager Onosai Auva'a (right) at the team blessing on Monday. Photo / PMN News Mary Afemata.
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