In a rugby season, unfortunately, cut short due to the recent COVID-19 lockdown, our 1A and 1B champions have been found.  Both teams went unbeaten through their respective competitions. 

Congratulations to both Kelston Boys' High School and Howick College on the achievement. 

See how each season went for Kelston Boys' High School and Howick College below:

Kelston Boys' High School 1A Champions

After a 23 year wait, this year's 1st XV team has managed to bring the much awaited trophy back out west. A season filled with exciting moments and competitive fixtures saw the group of young men able to go through the preseason, traditional fixtures and the Auckland 1A competition unbeaten.

Recording an 18 out of 18 run, before the season was suspended due to Covid. The results are a combination of the work ethic, commitment, sacrifice but more importantly the close bond and brotherhood of the players that was built through their intermediate years and junior rugby years out West.

The announcement of the 2021 1st XV is fitting given the close connection to the last successful Kelston team in 1998 which featured the likes of Sione Lauaki, Sam Tuitupou, Mose Tuialii, Mils Muliaina. This year's team being led by Sione Lauaki’s younger brother Senita Lauaki, a local family of the Kelston community and proud supporters of Kelston Rugby.

A huge thank you to the management group, families and supporters of the players who ensured the journey this year was an enjoyable and unforgettable one.  

Howick College 1B Champions

In an unprecedented season of success, the Howick College 1st XV went the entire season unbeaten.  The season began with the successful defence of the Ropati Shield, defeating One Tree Hill College.  With that win, the team grew in confidence and proceeded to beat the three other east rivals and go on an unbeaten run.

While the final round robin game was not played due to the Covid-19 outbreak, the outstanding on field results have also resulted in 12 players being selected for Auckland representative training squads

This team also engaged positive engagements with the Howick community.

A values-based approach drove high standards on and off the field and saw great personal development for each squad member. Our focus on holistic player development has seen the rugby programme at Howick College grow in recent years.

Our hope is that the success from this 1st XV season continues to inspire up-and-coming players. We would like to acknowledge the support of our school community and sponsors who have supported us over the season.