For many the rugby season is only just kicking into gear, but at Waitakere City, 2017 has already seen a number of highlights.

Club Co-Chairman Jason Ranson said the club administration is established and they are seeing improvements across the board.

“In order to be successful on the field, the club has to be successful off the field,” said Ranson.

With accountability and financial standing continually improving, Ranson said focus has been put on improving the club’s visibility within their community.

A unique opportunity was presented to the club earlier this year when they hosted the La Plata club from Argentina.

“We were able to showcase our club, our community and our culture. It was a huge success and we look forward to reciprocating by making a trip to Argentina in the future,” said Ranson.

Waitakere City hosed a quadrangular tournament for four local schools in the lead up to their season, Waitakere College emerging winners and claiming the Lemalu Cup.

Ranson explained it is just one of the ways the club will look to honour Ronati Lemalu who was a huge part of the local community.

“His passing was a huge loss to our club,” said Ranson.

“The premier team will pay their respects to Ronati on their jerseys in 2017 with a new strip being worn this weekend against Ponsonby.”

The premier side picked up their first win of the season last weekend over Otahuhu, 10-5.

“There is huge improvement in their performances which is reflective of the club as a whole,” said Ranson.

This weekend the premiers will host Ponsonby, along with the opening weekend of junior rugby.