NZMRL News
25 year Milestone to be celebrated in Rotorua
October 09, 2018
This year marks the 25th anniversary of New Zealand Maori Rugby League’s National Tuakana Tournament and it’s set to be bigger and better.
A record 36 teams, including eight wahine teams will be representing waka and rohe as they vie for the coveted Steve Watene Memorial Shield, Tom (Lummy) Newton trophy and the Wahine Toa taonga.
“The hunger and pride we see from our players to represent their whanau, waka and rohe is overwhelming and we look forward to delivering our best ever tuakana tournament in celebration of our 25 years,” says NZMRL Chairman, John Devonshire.
To mark the 25 year milestone, a limited edition NZMRL supporter apparel range has been designed in partnership with Core Athletic. A special feature of the range is a NZMRL replica jersey which is reminiscent of the resilient nature of Maori rugby league.
John says, “Our limited edition apparel is not only a celebration of our 25 years, but an acknowledgement of all the players and teams that have been a part of NZMRL.
” NZMRL supporter apparel will be available to purchase ahead of the tuakana tournament with a five-day online presale via the NZMRL website taking place from Wednesday 10 October to Sunday 14 October. Remaining stocks will be sold at a pop-up store at the tournament.
In addition, NZMRL have held three other tournaments this year – tamariki, teina and rangatahi, in the lead up to its national tuakana tournament. “It’s heartening to see how our kaupapa has grown and evolved across all levels since we’ve introduced our tamariki, teina and rangatahi tournaments, and the wahine divisions,” says John. “This year we’ve seen record numbers take part in all our tournaments, placing Maori rugby league in a desirable position as we’ve established meaningful pathways for our young players to develop and come through the ranks.”
The tournaments are by Maori, for Maori, and have the added benefit of providing a vehicle for players, and their whanau and supporters to connect with their heritage.
For John, “Our vision is to make a positive impact with rugby league and this is achieved by providing a platform whereby our Maori players can play at a national level and in a recognised tournament that remains reflective of who we are as Maori”.
The NZMRL Board also extend heartfelt thanks and appreciation to EastPack and the One Foundation as major sponsors of the 25th National Tuakana Tournament. The NZMRL National Tuakana Tournament will be held on Saturday October 20 to Sunday October 21 at the Rotorua International Stadium. Both tane and wahine finals will be played as a double header on the Sunday.
For those unable to attend, become a fan of New Zealand Maori Rugby League on Facebook. Selected games will be livestreamed with updates and photos posted throughout the tournament.
See nzmrl.co.nz for more information
◄
1 / 8
►