​Hinemoa Watene has recently been selected in the New Zealand U18 Sevens team going to the Youth Olympic Games in Argentina in October.

The Howick College player has already played a season of rugby for the Auckland Storm in the Women’s NPC competition and is currently playing for the competition-leading College Rifles Thunderbirds in Auckland club rugby.

Read about Hinemoa’s sporting and rugby journey below:
​
School: Howick College
Year at school: 13
Iwi: Nga Puhi Nui Tonu/Rongowhakaata

​What positions do you play in both sevens and 15s rugby?
In sevens I play either hooker or working prop and in 15s I play fullback.
 
What previous regional or national representative rugby teams have you played in?
I have played in the women’s Auckland Storm (15s), Auckland Women’s sevens,  Auckland U18s sevens, Auckland U18’s 15s and the New Zealand U18s Sydney sevens qualifier.
 
How long have you been playing rugby, and how did you start playing?
I have been playing Rugby sevens since year 9 at Howick College. I started playing because I was always interested in rugby and when my school sports manager said that she was entering a sevens team into the Condors tournament I was really excited to try it out. I started playing 15s for the College Rifles club in 2015 as our school does not have a first 15s team – yet.   

What is an early memory of watching or being around rugby when you were younger?
I remember playing my first ever rugby game in primary school and I was a lock. It was really scary and nerve racking at first as I was the only girl playing a bunch of boys that were twice my size. But I just decided to get stuck into it and managed to score my first try in the corner.
 
You are going to the Youth Olympics in October – tell us about your reaction to being selected in this team?
When I got the email I was just blown away, I just couldn’t believe it. But then reality really hit when my coach Knocky called me. That just solidified the fact that I was selected for the team and I was just crying, my parents were crying and it was just a very memorable moment. After missing out on the first round at the World Schools Condors sevens I didn’t want that to be the end. I kept on working hard and decided that I was going to get there. I wrote down on this torn up piece of paper, (which I have pinned to my noticeboard), that I was going to make the U18 sevens team in the next round of selections. Every training that I went to I made the most of  that to reach my goal, and it paid off in the end. Now it is about working even harder to make sure I am fitter, stronger and better than what I was before heading into the Youth Olympics. 

​What rugby are you currently playing?
I am currently playing for my club, College Rifles, in the Women’s Premier team called the Thunderbirds, and we are sitting at the top of our pool at the moment. Our team has always been strong and I credit the hard work of the girls and the management team for where we are now. I am looking to play for the Auckland Women’s team again for the remainder of the winter Rugby season and also the Auckland Storm team.
 
What has been a memorable moment or a highlight for you in your rugby career so far?
A memorable moment for me would definitely have to be winning over in Sydney with my sevens sisters to qualify for the Youth Olympics. Once that final whistle went I just could not believe it. We were all crying and jumping up and down and I was just blown away. Having my parents and my brother there really made it a moment that I will treasure for the rest of my life.
 
Who have been your rugby mentors and people to thank so far?
I really want to thank my parents for taking me to my trainings, my games and for always being there through thick and thin. They have always been firm believers in my ability even when I doubted myself. Every day I look to give back to them by working twice as hard, whether it’s in the field or in the classroom. Without them I would not be the person I am today, or even be here for that matter. I also want to give a big thank you to my Howick college coaches, Adelita Sotutu and Rocky Khan. Without these guys I probably would have never picked up a rugby ball again after primary. I’m really appreciative of all of the work these two put in for my team and also the amount of support they have shown me over these past few years at Howick. Each year I am always looking forward to playing as I know I have these two in my corner supporting myself and my team mates.
 
What other sports do you play?
I used to play touch rugby at Nationals level and currently play football for school. A highlight for me in football would definitely be qualifying for Nationals this year. This is so huge because our school is not really known for football and to actually get the opportunity to represent my school at the highest level of college sport is just surreal and I’m excited for how things will pan out for the season. 

Do you have any pre-game rituals that you do when preparing?
The night before I always pack my bag and lay my uniform out. I also need to listen to this one song that gets me focused, before I leave the house.
​
Do you have a motto or a favourite quote?
There is this Maori whakatauki that has stuck with me since beginning college which is “Okea Ururoatia.” Which translates to fighting like a shark or in other words to be tenacious in the pursuit of your goals. How I perceive this whakatauki is that if you really want something you need to fight for it, no matter how hard times get you need to fight for what you want otherwise is it really worth it? 
 
Do you have a rugby or sporting role model?
My number one sporting role model would definitely have to be ex Black Ferns halfback Emma Jensen. Emma plays for College Rifles and I have been fortunate to play, train and learn from EJ who is is the epitome of hard work, humility and dedication.  She inspires me everyday to keep chasing my dreams and to consistently work hard all the time.
 
What are your favourite and least favourite subjects at school?
My most favourites are Physical Education and History and my least favourite is definitely Statistics.
 
Favourite food?
My most favourite food would definitely have to be seafood and my mums famous macaroni and cheese.
 
Favourite holiday destination?
My favourite holiday destination is Gisborne during the summer time because that’s where the  best beaches in New Zealand are, and also my Nan who lives in Manutuke, Gisborne.

“There’s a sense of excitement building. We have a talented team that's progressing well,” Niko Jones enthuses when reflecting on the fortunes of the St Peter's College First XV.
 
St Peter's are third in the Auckland competition 1A standings and recently toppled fierce rivals and neighbours, Auckland Grammar School for just the 12th time in 60 matches. Captain Jones captures the last play drama.
 
“It was an amazing game, any game against Auckland Grammar is a big occasion, but this game was on their home ground and required a last-minute penalty kick for us to win. Year 11 Ajay Faleafaga, in his first start for the First XV, kicked the winning goal from about 15-metres in 30-metres out,” Jones reflects.

Earlier Zyon Holo had scored two tries and Jones had impressed with his leadership and powerful carries. The loose forward is very explicit about his approach to the game.
 
“Being the captain I try to lead by example in all facets. I like to get involved with the ball in hand and try and use my speed and power to carry effectively. I try to inspire with both my actions and words,” Jones reveals.
 
These are attributes Niko’s father, legendary All Black Sir Michael Jones (Henderson High School)  had in abundance. How does Niko feel when he is compared to his World Cup winning dad?
 
“There’s some pressure that comes with it, but at the same time, it's a privilege. Dad is an amazing man in rugby and away from it. I try not to look into it too much, but it's great to have his support.”
 
Niko emphasised St Peter's is a “well-balanced” team and the likes of hooker Narayan Strickland, flanker Chris Halaufia and fullback PJ Tonga were among those enjoying a fine season.
 
The best season St Peter’s ever had was in 2000 when they won the Auckland and National Top Four titles undefeated. Can the 2018 Saints match that effort?
 
“The goal is to make the top four first and then the final which we haven't made since 2000. Our game against King’s College which we lost heavily proves we have a lot of work to do. We have to stay grounded and keep working hard," Jones responds.

​Saint Kentigern College have won 17 1A games in a row. Their last defeat was 11-10 to St Peter’s. Josh Loveday kicked a last play dropped goal and Jones played a starring role.
 
“The St Kent’s game last year and the Grammar game this year are my two favourite games at St Peter's. The close, fast games in front of big crowds are the ones you want to be involved with," Jones reveals.
 
In addition to rugby, Jones plays sevens, touch and basketball. Niko is actively involved in his Kelston community church, explaining faith is a big part of his life.
 
“I try and help out as much as I can at Church. I teach at the Sunday school, help tidy up. I do anything I can to contribute,” he says
 
What about playing rugby on Sunday? Michael Jones famously missed the 1995 World Cup due to his conviction of not playing on the day of Sabbath.
 
“I haven't had to address that question yet, but when it comes up I will,” Jones concludes.

Kalyn Takitimu-Cook’s first game of rugby was at the start of 2017. Later this year she will be packing her bags for the Youth Olympic Games in Argentina with the New Zealand U18 Sevens team.
 
With a background playing touch and growing up in Papakura, a move to Manawatu with her family and to school at Manukura proved a catalyst for a fast track to success.
 
Read about Kalyn’s sporting and rugby journey below:
 
How did you start playing sevens rugby?
I grew up in Papakura/ South Auckland playing a lot of touch most of my life. We moved down to Palmerston North for my dad’s job in the NZ Army In January 2017 and that was the start of my 7s career.
 
Tell us about your first tournament?
I played my first tournament at the Sir Gorden Tietjens tournament [at Massey University, March 2017] for Manukura. I had no experience with the game, so my go-to was to play like a touch player, running back five metres instead of two metres. That is where I found a passion for the game, and keen as to learn more about it. 

Before your recent trip to Sydney with the NZ U18 7s team , you had previously represented New Zealand?
The first time I represented my country was at the trans-Tasman Touch Test series in January 2017, in the NZ U18 Mixed team. The second time I represented my country was for sevens rugby at the World Schools tournament in Auckland in December last year. We were very fortunate to win that tournament.  
​
What does it mean to wear the black jersey?
It is extremely emotional and a real honour to wear the black jersey to represent NZ. Not only am I representing myself, my team mates and my whanau, it’s about upholding the values of NZ and not only doing my role on the field but ensuring that I am being a good person off the field also.
 
What is an early memory of watching or being around rugby when you were younger?
My family love rugby! Papa bought us tickets to go watch his team (The Chiefs). That was my first time going to watch a game live, and because I’d watched it on TV for so long, I said to papa I can’t hear the commentators I met heaps of famous people jumping over the chairs to be the first one down to get their autographs before they went in the tunnel. 
 
You are going to the Youth Olympics in October – tell us about your reaction to being selected in this team?
I felt like I won the lotto, I was excited, nervous and I felt very lucky. 
 
At what stage had you set your goals on making this team?
About 12 months ago I watched the movie Chasing great by Richie McCaw, who inspired me to keep a journal to set goals and plan my future in the game.

What rugby you are playing at the moment and over the remainder of this winter?
I currently play for my school Manukura 15s teams and local 15s club rugby for Feilding Old Boys Oroua.
 
What has been a memorable moment or a highlight for you in your rugby career so far?
Winning the World schools 7s tournament at the end of last year, beating Australia in the final.  
 
Who have been your rugby mentors so far?
My first mentor was Janna Vaughan [Black Ferns 7s player] who believed in me, teaching me all the fundamentals in the game. At school I’ve been coached by Kristina Sue [Black fern 15s player] and Rhiarna ferris and Crystal Mayes [both fulltime contracted 7s players], who have helped develop my knowledge in the game, very lucky to have these people. Regionally Mike Pettmen and Rob Jones have been a huge influence on me, And all the Manawatu 7s ladies, who guide me and giving the odd growling now and again. Behind the Scenes Connie King [owner of The Kingz Co Facebook page to inspire athletes /people to be confident] she inspires me to train at a higher level. She pushes me past my limits. Training with me at 5:30am everyday pushing me both physically and mentally. 
 
 Favourite quote?
 From my papa: “While you’re lying in bed, the winner is out training.”
 
Do you have a rugby or sporting role model?
Role model would be Black Ferrns 7s captain Sarah Goss - because I’m inspired by her leadership, values and workrate on and off the field.
 
What are your favourite and least favourite subjects at school?
I like all of my subjects and school but the one that would stand out would be art because I can get creative. 
 
What do you like to eat?
Burger fuel hands down. 
 
Favourite holiday destination?
Rarotonga - because it relaxing and I love all their fresh smoothies. 

New Zealand have blown a 25-14 halftime lead to finish fourth at the U20 Rugby World Championships.

At the half hour mark lock Waimana Reidlinger-Kapa pushed through feeble defence and stepped the fullback to score a shock and staggeringly easy fourth try, at which point the 'Baby Blacks' appeared to be in command.

However South Africa proved far more sturdy in the second-spell and on the back of a superior forward effort and some genuinely enterprising back play powered home to earn a deserved victory.

New Zealand wing Bailyn Sullivan was yellow carded in the 53rd minute for a deliberate knock down. New Zealand resisted South African attack for the best part of nine minutes, but when Ryan Nortje muscled over from a lineout drive the deficit was only four.

From the kickoff, South African centre Wandisile Simelane broke from deep inside his own 22 and after sprinting 50-metres before passing, received the ball back from his support to score an outstanding go-ahead try.

New Zealand lacked discipline and their handling was often poor. Asenathi Ntlabakanye rumbled with six minutes remaining to hammer the nail in the Kiwis coffin.

The game started in high octane fashion with four tries scored in the opening quarter. 

South African wing Tyrone Green collected a loose pass and dashed away inside the opening two minutes, but New Zealand quickly regrouped.

Fullback Ngane Punivai has seen limited time at the tournament, but showed his worth when he caught a kick on the full and busted 50-metres. Billy Procter took the next pass before switching to halfback Jay Renton.

Renton was involved in New Zealand's next try, charging down a kick which triggered a movement down the left sideline finished by Harry Plummer. 

New Zealand struggled to stop the driving maul in every match and Swazi Sandi profited from that play for South Africa in the 19th minute.

Gianni Lombard kicked five conversions for South African and played with a lot of authority. Plummer collected a personal haul of 15 points for New Zealand.

New Zealand will be disappointed with their final placing. The forwards lacked backbone in the bigger moments, but the likes of Plummer and Sullivan look set for promising futures. 

France, who eliminated New Zealand in the semi-final, kicked onto beat England 33-25 in the final. The English making their sixth consecutive appearance in the decider outscored the hosts three tries to two, but were outmuscled by the French pack.

Louis Chabonel punished English I'll-discipline by kicking a record seven penalties as England conceded 16 penalties in total. 

France led 14-8 at halftime and never trailed in their historic truimph. No.8 Jordan Joseph, whose only 17 and a huge unit, is worth watching in the future. Jordan Olowofela scored two tries for England. Cameron Woki and Adrien Seguret scored the French tries. The former is a classy flanker who stood out.

Final: France 33 (Cameron Woki, Adrien Seguret tries; Louis Carbonnel con, 7 pen) England 25 (Jordan Olowofela 2, Joe Heyes tries; James Grayson 2 con, Marcus Smith 2 pen). HT: 14-8.
​
Third place play-off: South Africa 42 (Tyrone Green 2, Sazi Sandi, Ruan Nortje, Wandisile Simelane, Ruan Vermaak tries; Gianni Lombard 5 con) New Zealand 30 (Jay Renton, Harry Plummer, Waimana Riedlinger-Kapa, Caleb Clarke tries; Plummer 2 con, 2 pen). HT: 14-25

 New Zealand beat Australia 27-18 to confirm semi-final spot, when they will play tournament hosts France.
 
Vilimoni Koroi is the most accomplished international in the New Zealand Under-20’s having been a regular member of the All Blacks Sevens for the past two years. 
 
The fullback was conspicuously quiet for most of the match against Australia, but showed his excellence when it most counted. 
 
In the 62nd minute New Zealand was clinging grimly to a 20-18 lead. Koroi broke the defence from a quick lineout at halfway, setting up a try for wing Jamie Spowart. It was sudden, surprising and stunning bust by Koroi which won New Zealand a tough and scrappy affair.
 
Initially New Zealand started brightly. Openside Tom Christie was disallowed a try after two minutes, ploughing aggressively through a ruck and kicking the ball over the line failing to force. An earlier Aussie knock on was discovered on the television review and New Zealand was awarded a scrum. After three assertive phases, New Zealand hit the right side rapidly and Harry Plummer punched through.

​Isaac Lucas opened Australia’s account with a penalty, but New Zealand would soon charge ahead 14-3. Matt McTaggert snatched an intercept on the left wing at the 22 and ventured into the Kiwis half. Australia looked to stretch New Zealand on the opposite side, but Devan Flanders intercepted himself and dashed 65-metres. The No.8 was a workhorse throughout. 
 
Christie was denied again and Plummer kicked a penalty to make it 17-3 at which point New Zealand appeared comfortable.
 
However Australia rallied and struck in the 28th minute. Wing Jordan Petaia skilfully palmed a ball heading into touch infield and openside Fraser McCreight snaffled and strode 25-metres. 
 
In the 36th minute New Zealand conceded a penalty try from a scrum and tighthead Tevita Mafile’o was yellow carded.
 
The halftime score was 17-15.
 
Australia failed to capitalise on their one man advantage as the heavens opened turning the contest into a cautious territorial tussle. Plummer and Lucas exchanged penalties to make it 20-18, before Korori at last sprung to life.  
 
New Zealand have beaten Australia in all six meetings at the Under-20 World Cup and will face tournament hosts France in the semi-final. Last year New Zealand beat France at the same stage 39-26. The other semi-final features England and South Africa.
 
New Zealand went through group play unbeaten. In their previous match the Kiwis accounted for Wales 42-10. Billy Proctor, Bailyn Sullivan, Tom Christie, Tevita Mafileo and Xavier Roe scored tries with Harry Plummer kicking four conversions and three penalties.

An extra time goal in the First XI football broke a 0-0 deadlock and gave Wellington College the win in the match and was also the difference in the exchange in the wet at St Pat's Silverstream today.

Wellington College also won the First V basketball 76-51 but St Pat's Silverstream beat Wellington College 46-0 in the First XV rugby.

Football

A last minute goal to Harry Cook earned Wellington College a dramatic 1-0 victory over St Patrick’s College, Silverstream in the 18th annual traditional fixture.
 
In referee's time, Wellington won a corner on the right side and Cook managed to soar high above the pack and header the ball past the keeper for a memorable winner.
 
Despite the heavy surface, it was an entertaining spectacle as both schools looked to play positively and proceedings generally flowed from end to end.
 
Wellington College midfielder Stefan Cordwell was instrumental in the Wellington success, replacing Ollie Petersen as captain. Head prefect Petersen was forced to leave the field with a hip injury midway through the first half.
 
Silverstream was denied goals three times for offside play while Tommy Joe-McIndoe and Jack Ritchie went within inches of scoring - both firing wide left. Ryan Blair and Ben Taylor caused trouble on the wings for Silverstream, but Wellington’s defense was composed and resolute.
 
Wellington beat Silverstream 3-1 in an earlier Trevor Rigby Cup grading fixture. The expanded eight-team Trevor Rigby Cup kicks off on Saturday with Wellington College and St Pats Silverstream featuring.
 
Traditional Football Head to Head
Played: 18
Wellington College Won: 8
St Patrick’s College, Silverstream Won: 7
Draws: 3
 
Rugby
 
St Patrick's College, Silverstream has retained the Ken Gray Memorial Trophy by trouncing Wellington College 46-0 in muddy, soggy conditions.

Silverstream's margin of victory is the largest in the annual traditional fixture which stretches back to 1931.

The host's power and athleticism up front was overwhelming for the visitors, struggling in size and confidence. Silverstream's superiority was best illustrated by their third try. Prop Chris Hemi breached the first line of defence prior to barreling the fullback like an angry bull on the loose in Pamplona. Hemi's burst ended marginally short of the line, but wing Fritz Raysi wouldn't be stopped from the next phase.

Silverstream led 27-0 at halftime and the pack was responsible for five of the eight tries. In addition to Hemi, flanker Iona Apineru and lock Neyla Masima played with authority and flair and were both rewarded on the scoresheet.

Silverstream shifted first-five Sam Clark to fullback allowing Riley Forbes (the leading points scorer in Premier I last season) a chance to run the cutter. Both boys were heavily involved and used their quick instincts to cross the chalk.  

Wellington only managed one clean break in the entire match. Second-five Caleb Robson burst from his own 22, stumbling at halfway.

Wellington hooker Ridge Studd and No.8 Flynn Crampton can hold their heads high. Studd has already played at least three positions this season, starting at openside flanker before shifting into the front row and finishing this encounter in the midfield. Crampton is a whole-hearted performer.

Silverstream's biggest win before today was 34-0 in 1934. Wellington's biggest win is 43-5 in 1992. It’s the first time since 2000, Wellington has been held scoreless in the traditional and they only lost that affair 7-0. Wellington beat Silverstream 16-0 in 1999.

Silverstream improves to 3-0 in the Wellington premiership and hosts Rongotai College next Wednesday. Rongotai faces a stiff assignment on Saturday when they tussle with unbeaten St Pat's Town.

Wellington College has to front next Tuesday against UC Championship leaders Christchurch Boys’ High School.
Traditional Rugby Head to Head Played: 87
Silverstream Won: 48
Wellington Won: 32
Draws: 7

Basketball
​
Wellington College won the basketball 76-51, reversing a loss from a fortnight ago. The game didn’t count for Pohlen Cup points which continues for both teams on Friday night. Silverstream battles Aotea College and Wellington jousts with Hutt Valley High School.

Napier Boys' High School have continued their commanding from against Hurricanes region opponents, comfortably accounting for Scots College 33-7 in Wellington today.

On a heavy surface in Strathmore, Napier's forwards controlled territory and were never seriously threatened by the hosts, despite a brilliant solo try to wing Ethan Webster-Nonu on halftime. 
​
Down 21-0, Webster-Nonu retrieved a kick from inside his 22 and turned rapidly beating at least four defenders on his way to the line. It was a rare bright spot in a largely forgettable spectacle. 

Napier established their lead on the back of good industry by their pack. The likes of Patrick Teddy, Hayden Davis and Josh Gimblett all carried with authority and three tries were created from the 'pick and go' with Davis and halfback Angus Klimister among the first-half scorers.

Scots defended stoutly at the start of the second spell as Napier were twice denied tries, one that awarded and later overruled and another that should have been credited, but was missed. 
​
Eventually Napier broke through when Scots attempting to clear their own goal line fired a wayward pass which was dived on by centre Jack Sheridan.

Napier No.8 Luke Russell had the final say, forwards scoring four of the five tries by the visitors. 
​
After a winless tour to South Africa, Napier have beaten the top four sides from Wellington this year and the 2017 semi-finalists, as well as Wairarapa College 50-10 last Wednesday in their annual traditional.
 
Napier starts their Super 8 campaign this Saturday with a home fixture against  Gisborne Boys' High School before an eagerly anticipated local derby against reigning National Champions, Hastings Boys' High School on June 16.

Scots will seek their third win on the trot in the local competition this Saturday when the hosts winless Hutt International Boys' School.

Napier Boys’ High School win against Hurricanes scores:

• Beat St Pat’s Silverstream 40-22
• Beat St Pat’s Town 68-8
• Beat Wellington College 34-3
• Beat Wairarapa College 50-10
• Beat Scots College 33-7