Went and watched the juniors play last Saturday at Te Papapa Rugby Union club in Onehunga. First game was the Future Warriors (U15) trial with about 35-40 kids playing in that one including 3 13yo. Second game I think was SG Ball vs Jersey Flegg in the 1st half then SG Ball vs Harold Matthews in the 2nd half.
Seen an earlier post asking about Joseph Ratcliffe and he was there playing fullback for the SG Ball team. Now most will know I really rate this kid but I don't think fullback is his best position.
Another one playing fullback was Wayde Egan brother Tallan Egan. His fitness and game awareness has improved out of sight since last season and he'll be one to watch this season. Vastly superior player to what he was just 6 months ago.
As we have come to expect we have absolutely no shortage of home grown front and second row talent. Both will carry us this season. Gone are the days of having two oversized book ends in the pack. These kids are tall and mobile with most of the second row having amazing footwork that wouldn't go amiss in the centres. Couple of run away tries from props who had speed to burn. Definitely a common thread there with our recruiting.
Main chink in our armour this season will be the spine positions especially hooker. We don't seem to be investing much in that position which is why Kaawyn Patterson left despite him and his family being staunch Warriors supporters. Also explains why we are more interested in importing players to fill that role.
Was good to see Albert Vete back at the club even if its just running water. He's been looked at as a long term coaching prospect...
Seen an earlier post asking about Joseph Ratcliffe and he was there playing fullback for the SG Ball team. Now most will know I really rate this kid but I don't think fullback is his best position.
Another one playing fullback was Wayde Egan brother Tallan Egan. His fitness and game awareness has improved out of sight since last season and he'll be one to watch this season. Vastly superior player to what he was just 6 months ago.
As we have come to expect we have absolutely no shortage of home grown front and second row talent. Both will carry us this season. Gone are the days of having two oversized book ends in the pack. These kids are tall and mobile with most of the second row having amazing footwork that wouldn't go amiss in the centres. Couple of run away tries from props who had speed to burn. Definitely a common thread there with our recruiting.
Main chink in our armour this season will be the spine positions especially hooker. We don't seem to be investing much in that position which is why Kaawyn Patterson left despite him and his family being staunch Warriors supporters. Also explains why we are more interested in importing players to fill that role.
Was good to see Albert Vete back at the club even if its just running water. He's been looked at as a long term coaching prospect...
