The Putaruru College 1st XV 2019, went through the Waikato Secondary Schools Championship Coed 1st XV compettion unbeaten amassing 323 points and collecting 35 points 15 points clear of the 2nd team in the competition.

The format of this years competition changed from previous years but we have competed in every 2nd Division final for the last 4 years and have been unsuccessful on 3 occassions. However, in 2019 Putaruru College 1st XV and after an outstanding season have finally won the Warren Gatland Cup. A little history around this cup, Warren Gatland is the curent coach of Wales and Lions teams and in his playing days was a successful All Black and Waikato representative, with this present coach having the privilege of playing against him in my time as a player, so from that perspective it is definitely an honour to have finally won this trophy. 

I would like to acknowledge every player that has representated this team from our past players right through to the present group with high praise for their dedication and commitment and for what they have achieved from lifelong friendships right through to the memories of being a part of a group that represented each other with pride and dignity and to those players who have been involved with the Spirit Trophy over the years can take comfort from knowing that we still retain this taonga. We have been fortunate to have 8 players selected to represent Putaruru College in the Waikato Country team and they are Ethan Lyttle, Corbin Matthew, Gibson Wiseman, Kodie Bennett, Harrison Nicholls, Sharntaine Deane, Teihana Senior and Sheldyn Hemana both from the kura and we as a team are very proud of their achievements. We retained the Spirit Trophy which is played annually between Putaruru College and Te Kuiti High School.

 To our manager Karla Lyttle and coach James (Bruiser) Lyttle on behalf of myself and the team thank you both very much for your time and effort in helping these young boys grow into better people. A special mention to Mr and Mrs Dean Matthew for their commitment towards the team making an effort to help where needed was definitely appreciated.

To all those parents who gave up their time unselfishly, also a very big thank you to you all. Over the years it has been a privilege to have been involved with rugby from within the college and wider community; From the lifelong friendships made, to the memories I hold. The time and effort put into assisting young players into achieving what they could from this game will always be special and now it is time for me to successfully sign off with yours in rugby.

 

Yours in rugby

James Pahoro Amopiu

Coach Putaruru College 1st XV, 2019