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Rugby 7s comes to Newcastle

18/10/2016, New South Wales, Rugby, New South Wales Rugby, Article # 19811942
 

NSW Rugby Media Release

Tuesday 18th October, 2016
The below media release has been sent on behalf of the Newcastle Hunter Rugby Union (NHRU). 

Rugby 7s comes to Newcastle
 
The best of NSW’s young Rugby 7s players will be in Newcastle in November to play in two State Championships.
 
NSW Rugby Union has announced that the NSW Waratahs Men’s Under 20 State 7s Championship and the NSW Waratahs Women’s Open State 7s Championship will be held at Newcastle’s No.2 Sportsground on the weekend of November 5 and 6.
 
The championships are being organised by Newcastle Hunter Rugby Union (NHRU) and The Hawthorne Club, which supports rugby development in the Hunter Region.
 
Chairman of the organising committee, Mark Queenan, said the championships were initially to be an Under 19 carnival but that feedback favoured an Under 20 age group.
 
“Sydney clubs and Country zones advised that study commitments for the upcoming Higher School Certificate would impact on the available number of Under 19 players,” Queenan said.

“In addition, a number of city and country clubs are concentrating on their own end of year rugby commitments.

“The feedback pointed to an Men’s Under 20 championship and a Women’s Open Championship as being more suitable in November and we are pleased to be able to progress those age groups.

“The two State 7s Championships will see men’s and women’s teams from all over NSW converge on Newcastle to compete in this incredibly fast growing and exciting game of 7s Rugby," Queenan said.

The championships will be played at Newcastle’s No.2 Sportsground, which is the headquarters of rugby in the Newcastle and Hunter area.

The NSW Waratahs State 7s Championships are a cornerstone of NSWRU's Rugby 7s Program. Rugby 7s is generating great interest and the success of both the Australian Women's and Men's teams in the recent Rio Olympics has many people talking about the exciting 7s format.
 
The NSW Rugby 7s program had been developed to provide a clear participation pathway into the sport.
 
The aim of the program was to partner and support existing Rugby 7s tournaments throughout NSW and to identify and nurture current as well as emerging talented players. These players may then be channelled into the NSW representative programs and potentially into the elite national academies.
 
Nominations have been invited from Sydney premiership clubs and Country rugby zones to participate in both championships.
 
Registration can be made on https://www.trybooking.com/227168.

Full details can be obtained by contacting Manager - Education and Pathways at New South Wales Rugby Union, Michael Doyle on mdoyle@nswrugbyunion.com.au
 
Experienced Woods See Off Rats Challenge

Experienced Woods See Off Rats Challenge

01/08/2015, New South Wales, Rugby, New South Wales Rugby, Article # 11888395
 

NSW Rugby Media Release

Saturday 1 August, 2015

Experienced Woods See Off Rats Challenge

Eastwood will host a home Intrust Super Shute Shield Semi-Final next weekend after seeing off a gallant Warringah, 23-10, at TG Millner Field this afternoon.
 
Buoyed by a vocal home crowd, the reigning Premiers were made to work hard for their victory by a Rats side that had pushed them to the wire seven days ago in the final round of the regular season.
 
Behind 10-3 at the break, the visitors rallied with the sort of breakaway try for Josh Holmes for which they have become noted in recent seasons. But a determined Ben Batger restored Eastwood’s lead four minutes later before knocking over a penalty on the hour that seemed to break the Rats’ resistance.
 
Centre Tom Hill slotted a final three-pointer after the bell, to send the Premiers into their sixth semi-final in the last seven years.
 
Things had started ominously for the visitors, home prop Jed Gillespie almost over but for a last ditch effort from Michael Adams. However, referee Ed Martin called play back for an earlier infringement and Ben Batger did the honours.
 
A swirling breeze arrived with the restart, making kicking judgment in both execution and receipt, a touch more unpredictable. But it didn’t perturb Warringah’s intent and, clearly unfazed by the occasion given their efforts last week, set about applying pressure to their hosts’ 22.
 
Successive phases stretched the Eastwood line in the 10th minute and drew a penalty for Eastwood not rolling away, Hamish Angus levelling matters. And as the first quarter progressed, there were definite causes for concern amongst the TG Millner faithful, the Rats competing well at the breakdown, producing plenty of big hits and limiting the Woodies to the odd line break.
 
But the turning point was the scrum. Finding themselves 10 metres out in the 22nd minute, the Woods wheeled the Rats on three occasions before the ball finally came out at the fourth time of asking. When it did, Ben Batger’s switch of play and neat hands from Jai Ayoub almost opened the door for Tom Hill, only for the towering centre to be held up over the line.
 
That opened the door for the Woods to go for the jugular from the next engagement and it worked, Rats’ tighthead Wayne Borsack sent to the bin. But things only got worse for the visitors, Ed Martin running under the posts to signal a penalty try after Borsack’s replacement was unable to turn the tide.
 
The remaining 10 minutes saw the Rats in a bit of shellshock as the realisation that their chances of achieving any kind of set-piece platform for the rest of the game were unlikely. A Hamish Angus penalty on the stroke of half-time would have sent them to the sheds in much finer fettle but the usually reliable flyhalf pulled his attempt wide leaving the Rats still a converted try behind.
 
Knowing they would be under the pump without possession, it was increasingly likely that it would take a moment of Warringah magic to get them back in the hunt, and so it was in the 46th minute.
 
Countering from their own half, a great carry by Tyson Davis and two passes inside – one suspiciously forward if you’re a neutral, most definitely forward if you are of a Woods persuasion – and Josh Holmes had too much pace for the last man. Angus’ accuracy returned and we were all-square.
 
If the Rats had held Eastwood out for the next 10 minutes, it would have been interesting to see how the potential momentum shift would have affected both sides. But the try stirred the Woodies back into action and only four minutes later, they were back with their noses in front.
 
Having been forced up one too many blind alleys thus far, flyhalf Jai Ayoub found a hole at a pivotal moment, stepped and put on the gas before releasing Nick Batger. The Rats scrambled well to wrap him up but when the ball was recycled by the arriving support, it was brother Ben who had the finishing instincts and leg drive to power him over, despite the attentions of several green and white shirts.
 
With another semi-final beckoning, Eastwood’s experience started to tell. Ayoub began to find grass in behind, Ben Batger called the right shots from the back while skipper Hugh Perrett was – as usual - the calmest man on the field.
 
A Batger penalty on the hour effectively sealed the deal. The Rats were battling hard but struggling to create another genuine opening or much in the way of possession or territory. The difference between seven years finals’ experience compared to Warringah’s recent ascension to the contenders ranks in the last two years, was showing.
 
With Batger having departed, Tom Hill took up kicking duties with aplomb, crossing the black dot after the bell to confirm Warringah’s exit from the competition and set-up a home semi-final next week against Southern Districts or Sydney University.
 
Eastwood 23 (Penalty try, Ben Batger tries; Ben Batger 2 cons, 2 pens, Tom Hill pen)Warringah 10 (Josh Holmes try; Hamish Angus con, pen)
 
Manly 33 (Alex Northam 2, Dennis Pili-Gaitau, Sireli Tagicakibau tries; Sam Lane 2 cons, 2 pens, field goal) defeated Randwick 21 (Jock Pennington 2, Ned Hannigan tries; David Horwitz 3 cons)
 
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Future Stars in Action at NSWJRU State Champs

Future Stars in Action at NSWJRU State Champs

03/06/2015, New South Wales, Rugby, New South Wales Rugby, Article # 10423056
 

NSW Rugby Media Release

Wednesday 3 June, 2015
Future Stars in Action at NSWJRU State Champs

It will be a June long weekend full of footy action with largest club rugby tournament in the nation, the NSWJRU State Championships, being held in venues around Sydney and Orange.

More than 115 teams and 2,600 players in the Under-11 to Under-17 age categories, together with more than 500 officials will take part in the event. All participants involved over the weekend play in regular Club competitions within NSW. There are also invited teams from ACT, Victoria, and the southern inland region competing.

Different age groups are hosted at various venues ranging from Drummoyne and Concord in Sydney to Camden on Sydney’s outskirts and to Mudgee and Orange in the Central West. For the first time ever there will be competition playing on the synthetic fields of Blackman Park in Lane Cove when the Under-11 age group takes to the field.

Large crowds of spectators are expected at all venues, in particular the St Luke’s Fields at Concord where the Under-16 and Under-17 age groups will play, and there will be many watchful eyes looking for the next generation of Waratahs stars.

Country visitors are expected at all Sydney venues whilst there will be an exodus of Sydney residents on Friday heading for Orange (U14) and Mudgee (U15), with Orange City Council again providing significant support to the Championships.

The Under-15, Under-16 and Under-17 age groups will be viewed with interest as for the very first time the Country Championships are being held in conjunction with the State Championships. These age groups are also the start of the State Representative pathway and games will be viewed with interest by selectors from both Sydney and Country.

The Under-10 age group, which represents a further 24 teams and 440 players will participate in a tournament in late June.
FOR THE FULL DRAW FOR EACH AGE GROUP VISIT -www.nswjuniors.rugbynet.com.au
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Mathers appointed NSWRU President

Mathers appointed NSWRU President

04/05/2015, New South Wales, Rugby, New South Wales Rugby, Article # 9781173
 

NSW Rugby Media Release

Monday 4 May, 2015
Mathers appointed NSWRU President

 

Former Wallaby and Waratah Captain Mick Mathers has been appointed President of New South Wales Rugby Union, taking over from Tim Gavin who has stood down after three years in the role.

As a player Mick Mathers represented the Waratahs on 14 occasions, and played two Test matches for Australia in a distinguished career on the field. Mathers also had the honour of captaining the Wallabies in non-Test touring matches. He has held the position of Vice-President of NSWRU for the last three years, prior to that he held positions on the Unions Judicial panel and was Team Manager of the Waratahs in the early days of Super Rugby.

Former World Cup winning full-back Marty Roebuck was elected to the vacant Vice Presidents position. Since representing the Wallabies and Waratahs, Marty has continued his involvement in the game, coaching the NSW Country Cockatoos in the late 1990s and as physiotherapist and kicking coach to the Waratahs in Super Rugby.

In his report to the AGM Tim Gavin acknowledged the support of the Honorary Life Members and congratulated all Affiliates on another successful year of community rugby in New South Wales. A special congratulations to the Waratahs on the Super Rugby title for 2014.

Speaking on behalf of Chairman Nick Farr-Jones, Director Kerry Chikarovski thanked the Board, members of the Union and particularly the volunteers for their commitment to rugby all around the State, highlighting the success of NSW representative teams at all levels of the game. 

The members welcomed the endorsement of Richard (Dick) Shaw as an Honorary Life Member of New South Wales Rugby. Dick Shaw accepted the nomination for over 30 years of service to the Union in various capacities for Northern Suburbs Rugby Club, Sydney Rugby Union and NSW Rugby Union, including terms as a Director and Manager of the Waratahs.

NSWRU recorded a financial surplus of $191k for the 2014 year attributed to increased funding under the licensing agreement for the Waratahs which totalled $1.537k.

Executive Director Bruce Worboys thanked the Board, particularly Chairman Nick Farr-Jones and President Tim Gavin, for their tireless work for community rugby.  He also acknowledged the efforts of the dedicated employees of NSWRU, Suburban and Country Rugby and NSW Referees. 

A full copy of the 2014 NSWRU Annual Report is available to download here
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NSWRU Announces SCGT Agreement

NSWRU Announces SCGT Agreement

30/01/2015, New South Wales, Rugby, New South Wales Rugby, Article # 7554321

NSW Rugby Media Release

Friday, January 30 2015
NSWRU Announces SCGT Agreement


New South Wales Rugby Union and Waratahs Rugby are pleased to announce an agreement with the Sydney Cricket Ground Trust that will see the NSW Waratahs play all regular season, quarter-final and semi-final matches at Allianz Stadium from 2016 onwards.
 
This agreement brings significant financial investment which will invigorate rugby across all levels of the game, right across the state. Not only will this investment help grow the grassroots game; it will help ensure that the NSW Waratahs are best placed to achieve the goal of becoming a sustainable and dominant long-term force in Super Rugby.
 
New South Wales Rugby Union Chairman Nick Farr-Jones said the agreement is an excellent outcome for rugby in NSW.
 
“The NSWRU board are extremely pleased with the outcome of this agreement and we are confident that it will provide positive outcomes for rugby right across the state – from grassroots right through to the elite,” Farr-Jones said.
 
“This is a landmark partnership for the NSWRU, Waratahs Rugby, the Sydney Cricket and Sport Ground Trust, and a positive outcome for everyone who follows rugby union in NSW.
 
“NSW Rugby and the NSW Waratahs have a long history of playing at Moore Park, and Allianz Stadium is a real landmark for rugby in this state.
 
“The future of this precinct is extremely exciting, and we are looking forward to being part of it for many years to come.”
 
Waratahs Rugby Chairman Roger Davis echoed the sentiments of Farr-Jones, saying the agreement would ensure that the team was in the best possible position to achieve success.
 
“We are delighted to reach an outcome that will benefit rugby broadly, and ensure that the NSW Waratahs continue with their high level of success on and off the field,” Davis said.
 
“We have been through a rigorous process to reach this outcome, and we are confident that it will prove to be extremely positive in growing the game, and providing a high quality experience for our fans and members.”
 
The NSW Waratahs are committed to reaching their fans and members across the state, and already have confirmed trial matches and fan activities in Granville and Campbelltown, supplementing existing activities within local communities across the state, from the Super Rugby Trophy tour to areas of Country NSW; as well as an extensive statewide junior club visit program scheduled for the 2015 season.
 
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Foreign Invasion Dominates NSW Central Coast Sevens

Foreign Invasion Dominates NSW Central Coast Sevens

26/10/2014, New South Wales, Rugby, New South Wales Rugby, Article # 5223544
 
Foreign Invasion Dominates NSW Central Coast SevensPosted62.JPG
 

DSC03662.JPG

 
 

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Sunday 26 October

 

Daveta lived up to their favourites tag by winning the sixth Fitness First Central Coast Sevens in Wyong, NSW.

The Fijians, featuring six past or present national players, overcame New Zealand national champions Wellington 31-19 in an enthralling final.

Canada's Maple Leafs outclassed hosts Aussie Pearls 43-7 to win the Women's Kinesio Cup while Tiger Rugby, Tribe, Sunnybank and Sydney Fiji Ranadi took home the minor prizes.

On a cool evening, which offered relief from the 30+ degree heat earlier in the day, Viliame Mata scored after less than 10 seconds in a spectacular opening to the Men's final.

Wellington maintained possession superbly to put Hayden Schrijvers across for a try and level the scores midway through the first term and another long spell with the ball saw Greg Foe cross for a well-deserved try and a 14-7 lead.

Schrijvers was then shown a yellow card by referee Anthony Moyes and Daveta pounced through a try on the buzzer to Eramasi Radrodro.

With the scores level at 14-14. Api Domolailai scored straight after the restart and Levani Kurimudu powered his way over for Daveta's fourth.

The Daveta defence then went to work, stopping a certain Ambrose Curtis try, although moments later Belgium Tuatagaloa gave the Kiwis hope with a nice try.

However a mistake at the kick off saw Daveta swoop and the powerful Semi Kunatani scored to seal a 31-19 victory and the $AUD20,000 first prize.

Daveta had beaten fellow Fijians Red Rock and touring USA team Tiger Rugby on their way to the final.

In a one-sided Women's final the impressive Maple Leafs completely outplayed their hosts lading 26-7 at halftime.

Ghislaine Landry scored from a kick and chase to give the visitors a 5-0 lead and Julia Greenshields extended that to 12-0.

Good defence shut down the dangerous Ellia Green before Amy Turner set up Charlotte Caslick for the Pearls' first try.

Landry's second on the hooter was an ominous sign but it was Magali Harvey's score from the kick off that was the killer blow.

Harvey set up Kelly Russell for a fifth with Karen Paquin also crossing twice to see the match finish at 43-7.

Harvey was named MVP while Russell was strong at the breakdown and Landry impressed throughout.

Coach John Tait was very pleased with the result.

"It was our best overall performance of the weekend in the most important game," he said.  "For us we are using the tournament as an opportunity to develop some players. it's a great level and been a mix of teams we don't know, and we've played some hard games along the way."

FITNESS FIRST CUP

QUARTER FINALS

Wellington 33 Warringah 14

Yamacia 21 College Rifles 5

Daveta 19 Tiger Rugby 14

Red Rock 26 Rangataua 14

SEMI FINALS

Wellington 17 Yamacia 5

Daveta 24 Red Rock 12

FINAL

Daveta 31 Wellington 19

PLATE

SEMI FINALS

Warringah 21 College Rifles 14

Tiger Rugby 19 Rangataua 12

FINAL

Tiger Rugby 19 Warringah 14

BOOST JUICE BALL

SEMI FINALS

Borneo Eagles 22 Te Whanau 5

Tribe 19 Brasil 14

FINAL

Tribe 12 Borneo Eagles 5

PRESILIENT BOOT

SEMI FINALS

Nabua 19 Stars Rugby 0

Sunnybank 26 Manly 17

FINAL
Sunnybank 12 Nabua 5

WOMEN'S

KINESIO CUP

QUARTER FINALS

Aussie Pearls 35 Brasil 7

Fijiana 26 Greater Sydney Rams 5

Maple Leafs 29 Rugirl 7

NZ Wasps 38 Tribe 5

SEMI FINALS

Aussie Pearls 24 Fijiana 10

Maple Leafs 34 NZ Wasps 7

FINAL

Maple Leafs 43 Aussie Pearls 7

PLATE

SEMI FINALS

Greater Sydney Rams 17 Brasil 12 AET

Tribe 29 Rugirl 5

FINAL

Tribe 10 Greater Sydney Rams 5

BOOST JUICE BALL

SEMI FINALS

Stars Rugby 31 The Graduates 0

Sunnybank 31 Central Coast Academy of Sport 7

FINAL

Sunnybank 17 Stars Rugby 0

PRESILIENT BOOT

SEMI FINALS

Sydney Fiji Ranadi 12 Melbourne City Silverbacks 5

Te Whanau 31 Maroubra Magic 12

FINAL
Sydney Fiji Ranadi 22 Te Whanau 17 AET

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Stunning Day Of Sevens On Central Coast

Stunning Day Of Sevens On Central Coast

25/10/2014, New South Wales, Rugby, New South Wales Rugby, Article # 5199875

Stunning Day Of Sevens On Central Coast

Saturday 25 October

Posted8.JPG

AN intriguing Day Two is in store at the Fitness First Central Coast Sevens after a number of upsets on Day One.

Wellington, Daveta, Yamacia and Rangataua all topped their pools to qualify for the last eight in the Men's competition however College Rifles eliminated Tribe and Warringah scored in the last minute to deny Borneo Eagles a place in the top eight.

The shadow national teams of Australia, Canada and Fiji, along with Wasps from New Zealand's Bay of Plenty, looked the goods in the international women's tournament.

Brasil and Rugirl (from Japan) are also through to the Kinesio Cup which features a record $12,000 first prize.

After a day which saw the tournament, which was founded in 2009, opened by Prime Minister Tony Abbott and Federal Member for Dobell Karen McNamara, Wellington men's coach Scott Waldrom said they were happy to get three wins.

"We have plenty to work on and we haven't played a full game yet and tomorrow is only going to get harder as there a lot of good teams here."

The Bayleys National Sevens champions edged Red Rock 15-7 in their first match of the day, beat Te Whanau 17-12 and finished with a 22-12 win over USA's Stars Rugby.

Winger Ambrose Curtis, looking to impress Sir Gordon Tietjens who was in attendance, scored five tries over the day.

Daveta claimed top spot in Pool B with three comfortable wins.

Jerry Tuwai scored two tries in the 31-5 victory over College Rifles, another as they beat Tribe 22-14 and a fourth in the 28-5 win over Manly.  Former national captain Emosi Vucago scored twice in the latter match.

With current Fiji reps Api Domolailai, Viliame Mata and Savenaca Rawaca also in the side, the Nadroga side will be tough to beat.

Auckland club College Rifles ended as runners-up to Daveta with a hard-fought 20-10 win over Tribe.

"We had a bit of a rough start against Manly this morning and didn't turn up against Daveta and it was on the boys to bring it home in that last game, I'm proud of the boys," said captain Jeremy Innes.

They will face Bayleys Fiji Coral Coast Sevens champions Yamacia who beat Brasil, Sunnybank and Tiger Rugby.

Rangataua, captained by new All Blacks Sevens player Matt Clutterbuck, and Borneo Eagles, featuring six former internationals, played out a 26-26 draw in Pool D.

However the Eagles went on to lose to Warringah whereas New Zealand's Middlesex Sevens champions finished the day unbeaten and will face Fiji's Red Rock.

"We have plenty to work on," said coach Matua Parkinson.  "We have a young team who were a little shellshocked at the start of the day however they realised they can foot it with the big boys.

"Red Rock is a huge chance for us, we are up for it and don't want to disappoint our fans."

On the women's side Aussie Pearls, Maple Leafs and Fijiana dominated their opposition in the glorious Central Coast sunshine.

The hosts ran in four tries to beat the Wasps 24-14 and Stars Rugby 28-0 before demolishing Sydney Fiji Ranadi 54-0.  Rising star Ellia Green scored two hat-tricks while recently-crowned ARU Sevens Player of the Year Emilee Cherry also grabbed three touchdowns against Ranadi.

"We love playing Central Coast Sevens, it's a good atmosphere and lovely weather and this is a really good tournament for us to try things leading up to Dubai," said Cherry.  "We can give some of the new girls game time as well."

Wasps, boosted by several national reps, including Selica Winiata who scored four tries, go through after two wins from three and will play Tribe.

Canada's Maple Leafs romped through Pool B without conceding a point.

Nine of the visitors got on the scoresheet as they beat former champions Sunnybank 36-0, Te Whanau 40-0 and Greater Sydney Rams 39-0.

Captain Ghislaine Landry said the tournament was invaluable for the season ahead.

"We have been on tour for a few weeks to try and get ready for the IRB Series and that was good," she said.  "We didn't really know what to expect as it's our first time here and it is nice to get a run out.

"For us it is about players getting minutes and the opportunity to play and perform."

The Maple Leafs play Rugirl in tomorrow's quarter finals.

Fijiana coach Iliesa Tanivula said they were also looking forward to tomorrow after big wins over Rugirl 48-0, Maroubra 45-5 and Central Coast Academy by the same score.

"There will be a lot of competition with the international teams here which is good for women's rugby," said the former New Zealand representative.  "We need to work on our concentration for the whole 14 minutes as sometimes we drift off a bit so we have to be consistent. 

"Let's hope we can improve with more tournaments like this but we are excited for tomorrow."

Tribe topped Pool D which included a 33-7 win over Brasil, a victory which pleased captain Rebecca Tavo.

"That was a good game and some of our young girls came on and did some good things," said the former RWC Sevens winner.  "Right now it is about recovery, good food and rest as we have NZ Wasps tomorrow so we have to come with our A game, they are a brilliant team."

 

QUARTER FINALS of the FITNESS FIRST CENTRAL COAST SEVENS, Wyong Leagues Club

Fitness First Cup

M53, 09:50, Wellington (NZL) vs Warringah (AUS)

M54, 09:50, College Rifles (NZL) vs Yamacia (FIJ)

M55, 10:10, Daveta (FIJ) vs Tiger Rugby (USA)

M56, 10:10, Red Rock (FIJ) vs Rangataua (NZL)

Boost Juice Ball

M63, 12:30, Te Whanau vs Borneo Eagles

M64, 12:50, Tribe vs Brasil

Presilient Boot

M59, 11:10, Stars Rugby vs Nabua

M60, 11:30, Manly vs Sunnybank

WOMEN'S

Kinesio Cup

M49, 09:10, Aussie Pearls (AUS) vs Brasil (BRA)

M50, 09:10, Greater Sydney Rams (AUS) vs Fijiana (FIJ)

M51, 09:30, Maple Leafs (CAN) vs Rugirl (JPN)

M52, 09:30, NZ Wasps (NZL) vs Tribe (AUS)

Boost Juice Ball

M61, 11:50, Stars Rugby vs The Graduates

M62, 12:10, Sunnybank vs Central Coast Academy of Sport

Presilient Boot

M57, 10:30, Sydney Fiji Ranadi vs Melbourne City Silverbacks

M58, 10:50, Te Whanau vs Maroubra Magic

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Electrifying International Rugby Sevens Hits NSW

Electrifying International Rugby Sevens Hits NSW

24/10/2014, New South Wales, Rugby, New South Wales Rugby, Article # 5174980

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Friday 24 October

Tonegato.jpg

ALMOST 100 capped international sevens players bring their electrifying skills to the Fitness First Central Coast Sevens tomorrow in regional NSW.

Fijian stars Jerry Tuwai, Api Domalailai and Savenaca Rawaca - all winners at the recent Gold Coast Sevens - line up for favourites Daveta while All Black Sevens players Matt Clutterbuck (Rangataua) and George Tilsley (Borneo Eagles) also shape up at Morry Breen Field, Wyong.

Mat Turner (England), Richie Pugh (Wales), Brian Sefenaia (Australia), Rocky Khan (New Zealand) and Emosi Vucago (Fiji) are among the other former internationals in the 16-team men's competition.

IRB Women's Sevens Player of the Year Emilee Cherry and fellow Aussie Pearls Elia Green, Amy Turner and Charlotte Caslick join Canada's Jen Kish, Magali Harvey and Mandy Marchak  as well as Deven Owsiany, Ryan Carlyle and Kaelene Lundstrum (all Stars Rugby USA) as some of the world-class women's players in the star-studded field.

Four of the top ten women's teams in the world - the others are Brazil and Fiji - will send shadow national sides to Wyong.

The tournament presents a record $12,000 first prize for the Kinesio Cup which was acknowledged by ambassador, Federal Member for Dobell, Karen McNamara.

"The Central Coast Women’s Rugby Sevens Tournament is leading the way toward achieving equality in sport and recognising the outstanding level of competition this women’s tournament delivers," she said recently.  "This tournament is getting bigger and better each year and I am delighted to involved and promoting equality in sport.

Destination NSW and the Wyong Shire Council are also major supporters of the tournament which started from humble beginnings in 2009.

"This year's competition is shaping up as the most exciting tournament in the history of the Central Coast Sevens," said founder and Tournament Director Craig Morgan.  "Some of the strongest Sevens teams in the world are set to ignite the field over two action-packed days."

“The event is expected to attract close to 1,500 visitors from across Australia and from countries including New Zealand, Fiji, Malaysia, Japan, Brazil, the USA and Canada,” added Rob Stokes, Minister for the Central Coast.

"These visitors are expected to generate more than $600,000 in visitor expenditure for the local and State economy."

Off the pitch the star attraction is Sir Gordon Tietjens, the legendary New Zealand coach, witnessing the tournament for the first time.

"There are a lot of Fijian teams here who play the game week in and week out however the New Zealand sides will be in with a chance if they have done the hard yards," said Tietjens, who is renowned for his gruelling fitness sessions.

"Wellington have a fairly strong side who went particularly well in a tournament last week however it depends on how conditioned the players are," he continued.  "Rangataua are a good team who played last weekend and would have been disappointed (losing in the quarter finals) so they will be looking to improve.

"There are players in the College Rifles and Borneo Eagles sides who are great ball players and have a great opportunity to step up and play the game at the higher level."

The IRB Hall of Famer said he would be pleased if he could note one or two player's names for New Zealand contracts either this season or in the future.

"George (Tilsley), for example, played in the last IRB tournament and is looking for more game time at this level while Rocky (Khan) is determined to get back in the All Blacks Sevens.

"Matt (Clutterbuck) is a very good player, very conditioned and menatally tough and he's a guy also looking to get more games to cement his place in the All Blacks Sevens team.

Tietjens said he was also looking forward to the women's tournament, especially the Wasps from his home region of Bay of Plenty.

"Coach David Mays brings a young team sprinkled with international players so it will be interesting to see how they perform," he continued.  "The Olympics makes Sevens really exciting and no doubt it is a dream for some of these athletes to go to the Olympics."

Other coaches of note are former internationals Orene Ai'i (Stars), Scott Waldrom (Wellington), Matua Parkinson (Rangataua), Ed Cocker (Borneo Eagles).

Play gets underway at the Wyong Leagues Club at 10:05 on Saturday.  Matches are livestreamed on http://www.centralcoastsevens.com.au/

An indigenous welcome, acrobats and live music are also on the schedule for the weekend.

Pools for the Fitness First Central Coast Sevens, Wyong Leagues Club, 25-26 October

Men's

Pool A: Wellington (NZL), Red Rock (FIJ), Te Whanau (AUS), Stars Rugby (USA)

Pool B: Daveta (FIJ), Tribe (USA), College Rifles (NZL), Manly (AUS)

Pool C: Yamacia (FIJ), Brasil (BRA), Sunnybank (AUS), Tiger Rugby (USA)

Pool D: Rangatua (NZL), Borneo Eagles (MAL), Warringah (AUS), Nabua (FIJ)

Women's

Pool A: Aussie Pearls (AUS), Wasps (NZL), Stars Rugby (USA), Sydney Fiji Ranadi (AUS)

Pool B: Maple Leafs (CAN), Sunnybank (AUS), Te Whanau (AUS), Greater Sydney Rams (AUS)

Pool C: Fijiana (FIJ), Rugirl (JPN), Maroubra Magic (AUS), Central Coast Academy (AUS)

Pool D: Brasil (BRA), Tribe (AUS), Graduates (AUS), Melbourne City Silverbacks (AUS)

Previous Champions

2009 Burwood Blues (M), Sydney University (F)

2010, Warwick Bombers (M), Viqueens (F)

2011, Sunnybank (M), Aussie Pearls (F)

2012, Westfield Barbarians (M), Sunnybank (F)

2013, Northern Suburbs (M), Tribe (F)

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Secondary School Rugby Sevens event celebrates Hong Kong-Australia relations

Secondary School Rugby Sevens event celebrates Hong Kong-Australia relations

12/09/2014, New South Wales, Rugby, New South Wales Rugby, Article # 4137125

Secondary School Rugby Sevens event celebrates Hong Kong-Australia relations

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The Hong Kong New South Wales (NSW) Secondary School Rugby Sevens Championship 2014 concluded successfully yesterday (September 11), with over 350 secondary school students from across the state competing in the final day play-offs at the Sydney Academy of Sports and Recreation in Narrabeen. 

The championship, jointly organised by the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, Sydney (HKETO) and the New South Wales Rugby Union (NSWRU), involved some of the best secondary school rugby sevens teams in NSW in a sporting celebration of Hong Kong’s relationship with Australia. 

The Director of HKETO, Mr Arthur Au, congratulated the participating teams for the sportsmanship they had displayed at the Games.   

“I am most impressed by the ‘can do’ spirit of the players which is something that they and Hong Kong people have in common,” Mr Au said. 

He was confident that they would scale the heights with this spirit, not only in the Rugby field, but also in everything they would like to pursue in future. 

The best and fairest players selected at yesterday’s championship were rewarded with a trip to Hong Kong to attend the famed Hong Kong Rugby Sevens in March next year. 

“I hope they will enjoy the Games and our city, experience the ‘can do’ spirit in person, and share with their friends and family members what they see in Hong Kong,” Mr Au said.   

Speaking at the rugby finals, the NSW Rugby Union Executive Officer Bruce Worboys, said the event was a success on many levels. 
  
“Of course we’re thrilled that the event was well attended, but it was ultimately about the young players so it was great to see them form new friendships with others from different schools and regions. 

“Through this great form of rugby, the students had the chance to learn more about Hong Kong, its culture and how it celebrates the sevens format,” he added. 

The Hong Kong NSW Secondary School Rugby Sevens Championship 2014 was sponsored by the Hong Kong Tourism Board, Cathay Pacific and HSBC. 




About Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, Sydney (HKETO) 
The HKETO is the representative office of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, established in 1995 in Sydney to strengthen economic and cultural ties and provide better understanding between Hong Kong, Australia and New Zealand. 
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Vale Eric Tindall

Vale Eric Tindall

18/08/2014, New South Wales, Rugby, New South Wales Rugby, Article # 3540043
 

 

Waratahs Rugby Media Release

Monday August 18, 2014


Vale Eric Tindall

 

The NSW rugby community was saddened to learn of the passing of former Waratahs scrumhalf Eric Tindall, who passed away last Monday at the age of 69.

 

From the Drummoyne club, Eric ’Nookie’ Tindall earned 6 NSW caps from 1969-1973.  He debuted against Fiji on 26 July 1969 and his last match was as a replacement for Russell Fairfax late in the contest against Queensland at Ballymore on 13 May 1973.

 

Educated at Sydney Grammar School, Nookie developed into a first-class halfback, strong in attack and courageous in defence, with a long and accurate pass and the acceleration to make significant breaks. With his brother Edwin, he joined the Drummoyne Club, where they became long-time stalwarts, Nookie playing 200 first grade games and Edwin over 300.

 

His first opportunity at the top level came captaining Sydney against Fiji in 1969, where he scored two fine tries in the 16-31 defeat. He went on to represent  NSW and captain an Australian XV, all against the same Fijian side. 

 

In 1970 he toured New Zealand with NSW and would doubtless have earned far more caps had he not had the misfortune to compete against John Hipwell for the number nine jersey.

 

Nookie also played one Test for Australia against Tonga at Ballymore on 30 June 1973, scoring a try under the posts despite Australia’s 16-11 loss.

 

Outside rugby, he became Managing Director of one of Australia’s leading construction companies and his name is associated with many of the major Sydney City buildings erected in the 1980s. 

 

He was the much loved husband of Janine, father of Nick, Jon and Sally and grandfather of William, Edward, Zachary and Willow.

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