Queensland Rugby will be disappointed to farewell Daniel Braid at the end of the current Investec Bank Super 14 season but delighted he will have the chance to pursue his ambition of adding to his four caps for the All Blacks.
Braid joined the QR Reds for the 2009 season as Australia ’s first marquee signing, under an ARU proviso that his stay be no longer than two years.
After suffering an Achilles tendon injury midway through 2009 he came back with a vengeance this year as one of the form open side flankers in the competition and caught the eye of All Black selectors, leading to a decision to renew ties with his home province, the Blues in Auckland, to press his claims for a recall to the All Black squad.
“Braidy has been fantastic for us as a player and as a leader within the team, and we’ll be sad to see him go,” said Head Coach Ewen McKenzie .
“However we take pride in knowing that not only are we developing Wallabies, we might also get a reputation for re-developing All Blacks….”
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
GITEAU FINED
Brumbies first five-eighth Matt Giteau has tonight been fined $5000 over comments made about referee Steve Walsh following the Super 14 match against NSW Waratahs in Sydney last Saturday night.
Giteau’s comments were referred to SANZAR yesterday by the Australian Rugby Union for determination on whether they constituted a Code of Conduct breach.
Competition officials decided earlier today the matter should be the subject of a disciplinary hearing.
Sydney-based Judicial Officer Terry Willis heard evidence via telephone hook-up this evening, with Giteau in Canberra where the Brumbies are preparing for a game this Saturday night against the Queensland Reds.
Giteau pleaded guilty to a Code of Conduct breach.
Mr Willis, when considering penalty, noted Giteau has played 86 Super Rugby matches and 76 Tests without any previous offences.
Giteau’s comments were referred to SANZAR yesterday by the Australian Rugby Union for determination on whether they constituted a Code of Conduct breach.
Competition officials decided earlier today the matter should be the subject of a disciplinary hearing.
Sydney-based Judicial Officer Terry Willis heard evidence via telephone hook-up this evening, with Giteau in Canberra where the Brumbies are preparing for a game this Saturday night against the Queensland Reds.
Giteau pleaded guilty to a Code of Conduct breach.
Mr Willis, when considering penalty, noted Giteau has played 86 Super Rugby matches and 76 Tests without any previous offences.
CRUSADERS SKIPPER TO PLAY 100th GAME
One of world rugby’s leaders of the game will celebrate a playing milestone this weekend with Crusaders and All Blacks Captain Richie McCaw set to play his 100th Super Rugby match.
McCaw, 29, is scheduled to lead his team on to the field for his milestone game when the Crusaders face the Stormers in Cape Town in week 12 of the Rebel Sport Super 14. He made his Super Rugby debut for the Crusaders in 2001 against the Hurricanes as a fresh-faced 20-year-old and since then has helped drive the Crusaders to Super Rugby championship titles in 2002, 2005, 2006 and 2008.
McCaw, who has scored 22 tries so far in his Crusaders career, will join an exclusive club of 10 other New Zealand Super Rugby centurions: Tana Umaga, Justin Marshall, Anton Oliver, Caleb Ralph, Greg Somerville, Reuben Thorne, Doug Howlett, Leon MacDonald, Justin Collins and Keven Mealamu.
New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRU) Chief Executive Steve Tew said 100 games in one competition is a huge accomplishment.
“One hundred games in Super Rugby is a great achievement – but this milestone is particularly special because Richie has played all his Super Rugby for the Crusaders. I congratulate him on this fantastic new mark in his rugby career.
“Richie continues to set a fine example as an ambassador for the game both on and off the field, and I wish him well for this weekend’s match,” Mr Tew said.
McCaw, 29, is scheduled to lead his team on to the field for his milestone game when the Crusaders face the Stormers in Cape Town in week 12 of the Rebel Sport Super 14. He made his Super Rugby debut for the Crusaders in 2001 against the Hurricanes as a fresh-faced 20-year-old and since then has helped drive the Crusaders to Super Rugby championship titles in 2002, 2005, 2006 and 2008.
McCaw, who has scored 22 tries so far in his Crusaders career, will join an exclusive club of 10 other New Zealand Super Rugby centurions: Tana Umaga, Justin Marshall, Anton Oliver, Caleb Ralph, Greg Somerville, Reuben Thorne, Doug Howlett, Leon MacDonald, Justin Collins and Keven Mealamu.
New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRU) Chief Executive Steve Tew said 100 games in one competition is a huge accomplishment.
“One hundred games in Super Rugby is a great achievement – but this milestone is particularly special because Richie has played all his Super Rugby for the Crusaders. I congratulate him on this fantastic new mark in his rugby career.
“Richie continues to set a fine example as an ambassador for the game both on and off the field, and I wish him well for this weekend’s match,” Mr Tew said.
REDS CONFERM BRAID TO HEAD BACK TO NEW ZEALAND
Former All Blacks flanker Daniel Braid is coming home to New Zealand after signing with the New Zealand Rugby Union and Auckland Rugby from 1 July 2010 until the end of 2012.
Braid will play out his second Rebel Sport Super 14 season with the Reds, then return to play for Auckland in the 2010 ITM Cup. He will be available to the Blues for the 2011 and 2012 expanded Super Rugby competitions.
He will be eligible for All Blacks consideration once he has played for Auckland.
NZRU Chief Executive Steve Tew welcomed Braid’s return as a positive sign for New Zealand rugby.
“We’re delighted that Daniel has chosen to come back and commit to New Zealand rugby. He has been an outstanding player both in his previous time in New Zealand and during this time with the Reds and his talent is widely recognised.
“From his development through New Zealand age grade teams, to his appearances for Auckland and the Blues, Daniel has been impressive. At age 21, his form earned him a spot in the All Blacks squad at the end of 2002,” Mr Tew said.
Braid was named winner of the Kelvin R Tremain Memorial Trophy for player of the year at the Steinlager Rugby Awards in 2007 and he has continued to attract attention with his strong form for Queensland in the 2009 and 2010 Super Rugby seasons.
Auckland Rugby and Blues Chief Executive Andy Dalton welcomed Braid’s decision to return.
“Daniel’s return to Auckland Rugby and the Blues is a welcome one. With more than 100 combined caps for both the union and the franchise, Daniel was an experienced senior member of our teams and we are thrilled he is coming home,” Mr Dalton said.
The openside flanker said his desire to try and secure a place in the All Blacks for the Rugby World Cup in 2011 had been a strong motivator in his decision.
“I am very happy to be returning to Auckland and New Zealand during such an exciting time for New Zealand rugby. Having the Rugby World Cup in your home country and the opportunity to potentially push for a place to represent New Zealand is a once in a lifetime opportunity and this was a factor in my decision to return home.
“I have enjoyed my time at the Reds, and am hoping to leave on a high note as part of a team that has improved enormously this season,” he said.
Braid will play out his second Rebel Sport Super 14 season with the Reds, then return to play for Auckland in the 2010 ITM Cup. He will be available to the Blues for the 2011 and 2012 expanded Super Rugby competitions.
He will be eligible for All Blacks consideration once he has played for Auckland.
NZRU Chief Executive Steve Tew welcomed Braid’s return as a positive sign for New Zealand rugby.
“We’re delighted that Daniel has chosen to come back and commit to New Zealand rugby. He has been an outstanding player both in his previous time in New Zealand and during this time with the Reds and his talent is widely recognised.
“From his development through New Zealand age grade teams, to his appearances for Auckland and the Blues, Daniel has been impressive. At age 21, his form earned him a spot in the All Blacks squad at the end of 2002,” Mr Tew said.
Braid was named winner of the Kelvin R Tremain Memorial Trophy for player of the year at the Steinlager Rugby Awards in 2007 and he has continued to attract attention with his strong form for Queensland in the 2009 and 2010 Super Rugby seasons.
Auckland Rugby and Blues Chief Executive Andy Dalton welcomed Braid’s decision to return.
“Daniel’s return to Auckland Rugby and the Blues is a welcome one. With more than 100 combined caps for both the union and the franchise, Daniel was an experienced senior member of our teams and we are thrilled he is coming home,” Mr Dalton said.
The openside flanker said his desire to try and secure a place in the All Blacks for the Rugby World Cup in 2011 had been a strong motivator in his decision.
“I am very happy to be returning to Auckland and New Zealand during such an exciting time for New Zealand rugby. Having the Rugby World Cup in your home country and the opportunity to potentially push for a place to represent New Zealand is a once in a lifetime opportunity and this was a factor in my decision to return home.
“I have enjoyed my time at the Reds, and am hoping to leave on a high note as part of a team that has improved enormously this season,” he said.
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
SKY AND SANZAR ANNOUNCE MEDIA RIGHTS
Following the announcement of the new SANZAR broadcasting agreements, the New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRU) and SKY Television have today confirmed the extension of the local broadcast arrangements under a new agreement which will run from 2011 to 2015.
The new broadcasting agreement underpins long-term funding support for rugby in New Zealand and will see all major rugby competitions and matches in New Zealand delivered live on SKY Sport and the Rugby Channel.
This includes coverage of the Super Rugby competition, which will be extended and transformed to a 15-team conference-based competition in 2011, the Steinlager Series (June Test matches between the All Blacks and Northern Hemisphere teams), the Investec Tri Nations and the ITM Cup.
The agreement is part of the new SANZAR broadcasting arrangements announced today.
NZRU CEO Steve Tew said the new agreement builds on the long-standing and successful partnership which has seen SKY‟s excellence in rugby broadcasting recognised around the world.
"Professional rugby and SKY Television emerged at about the same time and have effectively grown together over the past 15 or so years.
"In that time, SKY has established itself as one of the premier rugby broadcasters in the world and that has been recognised at the highest level with their production winning awards and their achievement in securing the host broadcasting position for Rugby World Cup 2011.
"During this process, we talked with all of New Zealand‟s broadcasters about their potential involvement in rugby but in the end, SKY were the only platform that could deliver the game at this level to New Zealand and this is underpinned by their „every game live" proposition which gives rugby fans access to every top-level rugby fixture," said Mr Tew.
"We see a lot of opportunity for ourselves and SKY to continue to develop the way the game is presented to New Zealand fans, who are arguably the most discerning and educated in world rugby, so that we can continue to deliver them the world‟s best rugby viewing experience," he said.
"Just as importantly, the funding that SKY provides through this broadcasting rights agreement is vitally important to all of rugby in New Zealand including our commitment to and investment in community rugby, game development, and our ability to retain our top players and coaches in New Zealand."
The new SANZAR broadcasting agreements will see the NZRU‟s total broadcasting revenues increase by 28 per cent per annum over the existing broadcasting arrangements.
SKY Television Chief Executive, John Fellet said that the combination of pay television and free-to-air coverage for a key sport like rugby, delivers extensive games coverage to all New Zealanders.
"Over the last 15 years, SKY‟s partnership with the NZRU has resulted in significantly increased television coverage of international and national rugby across a number of channels, something that a stand alone, free-to-air broadcaster has historically been unable to deliver," he said.
SKY will confirm the free-to-air broadcasting arrangements once they have been determined.
**********
The new broadcasting agreement underpins long-term funding support for rugby in New Zealand and will see all major rugby competitions and matches in New Zealand delivered live on SKY Sport and the Rugby Channel.
This includes coverage of the Super Rugby competition, which will be extended and transformed to a 15-team conference-based competition in 2011, the Steinlager Series (June Test matches between the All Blacks and Northern Hemisphere teams), the Investec Tri Nations and the ITM Cup.
The agreement is part of the new SANZAR broadcasting arrangements announced today.
NZRU CEO Steve Tew said the new agreement builds on the long-standing and successful partnership which has seen SKY‟s excellence in rugby broadcasting recognised around the world.
"Professional rugby and SKY Television emerged at about the same time and have effectively grown together over the past 15 or so years.
"In that time, SKY has established itself as one of the premier rugby broadcasters in the world and that has been recognised at the highest level with their production winning awards and their achievement in securing the host broadcasting position for Rugby World Cup 2011.
"During this process, we talked with all of New Zealand‟s broadcasters about their potential involvement in rugby but in the end, SKY were the only platform that could deliver the game at this level to New Zealand and this is underpinned by their „every game live" proposition which gives rugby fans access to every top-level rugby fixture," said Mr Tew.
"We see a lot of opportunity for ourselves and SKY to continue to develop the way the game is presented to New Zealand fans, who are arguably the most discerning and educated in world rugby, so that we can continue to deliver them the world‟s best rugby viewing experience," he said.
"Just as importantly, the funding that SKY provides through this broadcasting rights agreement is vitally important to all of rugby in New Zealand including our commitment to and investment in community rugby, game development, and our ability to retain our top players and coaches in New Zealand."
The new SANZAR broadcasting agreements will see the NZRU‟s total broadcasting revenues increase by 28 per cent per annum over the existing broadcasting arrangements.
SKY Television Chief Executive, John Fellet said that the combination of pay television and free-to-air coverage for a key sport like rugby, delivers extensive games coverage to all New Zealanders.
"Over the last 15 years, SKY‟s partnership with the NZRU has resulted in significantly increased television coverage of international and national rugby across a number of channels, something that a stand alone, free-to-air broadcaster has historically been unable to deliver," he said.
SKY will confirm the free-to-air broadcasting arrangements once they have been determined.
**********
NZRU FINANCIAL RESULTS
NZRU announces 2009 financial results
The New Zealand Rugby Union has announced its financial results for 2009, posting a record loss of $15.9 million attributed in part to the impact of the global recession on income, and accounting for the investments in hosting Rugby World Cup 2011.
The result was announced at the NZRU Annual General Meeting held in Wellington today.
The loss follows a modest profit of $366,000 in 2008.
NZRU Chief Executive Steve Tew said the result was disappointing for the game.
“Of the loss, $9.5 million is on our operating budget, mainly from a shortfall in income on All Blacks Test matches at home and abroad, reduced interest income and increased expenditure on medical support and players due to a higher than normal number of injuries incurred.
“In relation to RWC 2011, we have accounted for our one-third share of the operating losses incurred by Rugby New Zealand 2011 Limited which have increased as expected as the tournament nears, and some unrealised foreign exchange losses that will be recovered in future periods based on the specific arrangements we have in place.”
Mr Tew said: “While we are fortunate that our financial position is very strong, the game cannot continue to spend more than it earns and this result, on top of some worrying Provincial Union results, sends a very clear message. Consequently, we have made revenue growth and cost management a priority for 2010.
Mr Tew also noted that the NZRU’s accumulated reserves and reserves policy allowed the organisation to respond to the challenges faced in 2009.
“We have often said that our reserves were accumulated to protect rugby in times of difficulty and there is no doubt that the combination of events in 2009 created financial stress for the whole game.
“We are fortunate that we were able to utilise our reserves to continue to invest in core areas of the game like community rugby development and retaining players even as we were forced to make difficult spending choices in other areas.”
The ongoing investment in rugby included core grants to Provincial Unions of $8.3 million and further distributions to Provincial Unions and Franchises of an additional $8.1 million in tagged funding, resulting in a total distribution of $16.4 million.
In addition to the operating result and RWC 2011 treatment, the financial performance was also impacted by exchange rates and reduced interest income on offshore funds which were also attributable, in part, to the ongoing economic downturn.
“We hold a significant amount of reserves in British pounds against the payment we will make to the IRB for Rugby World Cup 2011 and in line with accounting requirements these funds have to be re-valued at the end of each financial year.
“We have specific arrangements in place to hedge the foreign exchange risk on this payment, however frustratingly due to accounting requirements the gain on this arrangement to offset the unrealised foreign exchange losses cannot be recognised until 2011.
“So any fall in the pound has a direct impact on our year-end result as we saw in 2008 and again last year,” Mr Tew said.
NZRU Priorities for 2010
The NZRU also announced today the key priorities for 2010. The priorities are:
1. Implementing the Community Rugby Plan;
2. Ensuring the All Blacks are a winning team;
3. Driving revenue generation, cost management and sustainability throughout the game;
4. Implementing the 2011 RWC legacy programme to cement the benefits of hosting Rugby World Cup;
5. Delivering outstanding competitions for fans, players and commercial partners; and
6. Building stronger relationships with our partners and stakeholders.
The New Zealand Rugby Union has announced its financial results for 2009, posting a record loss of $15.9 million attributed in part to the impact of the global recession on income, and accounting for the investments in hosting Rugby World Cup 2011.
The result was announced at the NZRU Annual General Meeting held in Wellington today.
The loss follows a modest profit of $366,000 in 2008.
NZRU Chief Executive Steve Tew said the result was disappointing for the game.
“Of the loss, $9.5 million is on our operating budget, mainly from a shortfall in income on All Blacks Test matches at home and abroad, reduced interest income and increased expenditure on medical support and players due to a higher than normal number of injuries incurred.
“In relation to RWC 2011, we have accounted for our one-third share of the operating losses incurred by Rugby New Zealand 2011 Limited which have increased as expected as the tournament nears, and some unrealised foreign exchange losses that will be recovered in future periods based on the specific arrangements we have in place.”
Mr Tew said: “While we are fortunate that our financial position is very strong, the game cannot continue to spend more than it earns and this result, on top of some worrying Provincial Union results, sends a very clear message. Consequently, we have made revenue growth and cost management a priority for 2010.
Mr Tew also noted that the NZRU’s accumulated reserves and reserves policy allowed the organisation to respond to the challenges faced in 2009.
“We have often said that our reserves were accumulated to protect rugby in times of difficulty and there is no doubt that the combination of events in 2009 created financial stress for the whole game.
“We are fortunate that we were able to utilise our reserves to continue to invest in core areas of the game like community rugby development and retaining players even as we were forced to make difficult spending choices in other areas.”
The ongoing investment in rugby included core grants to Provincial Unions of $8.3 million and further distributions to Provincial Unions and Franchises of an additional $8.1 million in tagged funding, resulting in a total distribution of $16.4 million.
In addition to the operating result and RWC 2011 treatment, the financial performance was also impacted by exchange rates and reduced interest income on offshore funds which were also attributable, in part, to the ongoing economic downturn.
“We hold a significant amount of reserves in British pounds against the payment we will make to the IRB for Rugby World Cup 2011 and in line with accounting requirements these funds have to be re-valued at the end of each financial year.
“We have specific arrangements in place to hedge the foreign exchange risk on this payment, however frustratingly due to accounting requirements the gain on this arrangement to offset the unrealised foreign exchange losses cannot be recognised until 2011.
“So any fall in the pound has a direct impact on our year-end result as we saw in 2008 and again last year,” Mr Tew said.
NZRU Priorities for 2010
The NZRU also announced today the key priorities for 2010. The priorities are:
1. Implementing the Community Rugby Plan;
2. Ensuring the All Blacks are a winning team;
3. Driving revenue generation, cost management and sustainability throughout the game;
4. Implementing the 2011 RWC legacy programme to cement the benefits of hosting Rugby World Cup;
5. Delivering outstanding competitions for fans, players and commercial partners; and
6. Building stronger relationships with our partners and stakeholders.
NZRU BOARD MEETING
The New Zealand Rugby Union has today released its 2009 Annual Report at its Annual General Meeting in Wellington.
NZRU Chairman Jock Hobbs said the game faced numerous challenges in 2009, not the least of which was a global economic recession and the impact that had on rugby.
The NZRU’s financial result was impacted by the recession and the need to account for its investment in hosting Rugby World Cup 2011.
As a result, the NZRU was forced to make some tough decisions in 2009 many of which were not popular and Mr Hobbs said in making those decisions, the NZRU always did so with due consideration for the impacts that such decisions might have.
"This included the decisions to not have a New Zealand Maori programme or a Men’s B competition in 2009 and the extensive consideration at Provincial Union’s request of the future shape of the domestic competitions, all of which generated debate and criticism."
Creating Certainty
Mr Hobbs said the NZRU worked strenuously during 2009 on a large number of major projects which, collectively, had the potential to establish certainty and sustainability for the game over the next three to five years.
These major tasks, which involved lengthy, complex, and demanding negotiations, have put the game on a strong and stable footing for the future.
They include:
The NZRU, as part of the SANZAR Joint Venture, agreeing to extend the Super Rugby competition format from 2011 and to extend a conditional invitation to Argentina to join the Investec Tri Nations from 2012 to create a new "Four Nations" Championship.
As a result, the NZRU with SANZAR was able to present new and invigorated competitions in the negotiations with potential broadcast partners ahead of the end of the current agreement which ends in 2010. A heads of agreements were reached in late 2009 and completed agreements across SANZAR have now been signed by all parties. The new broadcasting arrangements deliver increased revenues from 2011 onwards for all three SANZAR countries which generates vital funds for reinvestment in all levels of rugby.
Important decisions were also made regarding the future of domestic provincial competitions. A 14-team competition has been retained for 2010, with reduced costs and with an amended structure for 2011 onwards with the Heartland Championship to remain in its current format.
Agreement on settlement terms was reached between the NZRU and the New Zealand Rugby Players Association (NZRPA) for a new Collective Employment Agreement which gives players and unions certainty around the costs and structures of professional rugby for the next three years and one that is sustainable and recognises fairly the contribution of our professional players.
"While there was some pain in all of these processes, we believe the certainty created by these decisions will provide strength for the game as it looks to capitalise on the opportunities ahead, notably the hosting of Rugby World Cup 2011," said Mr Hobbs.
Highlights
Mr Hobbs also noted the other highlights and key achievements of 2009:
The numbers of registered players increased for the second consecutive year, growing four percent from 2008 to 2009. This was matched with three percent growth in coaching numbers and twenty-three percent growth in the number of registered volunteers;
The New Zealand Under 20 team won the IRB Junior World Championship and the Junior All Blacks won the IRB Pacific Nations Cup and maintained New Zealand’s unbeaten record in that tournament;
The New Zealand Womens Sevens team made the Final of the inaugural IRB Rugby World Cup Sevens in Dubai, losing to Australia in extra time;
The Black Ferns won two out of three matches on their tour of England and played an historic first Test at Twickenham;
Three New Zealand sides made the semifinals of the Rebel Sport Super 14 and the Chiefs went on to make the Final, for the first time in the team’s history;
New Zealand maintained a strong presence at the IRB Awards, with Aaron Cruden recognised as the Junior Player of the Year and Richie McCaw winning Player of the Year – the All Blacks captain becoming the first player to win the premier award twice.
The All Blacks retained the Bledisloe Cup for the sixth year in a row. The team also recorded victories over France, Italy, Wales and England and made an effort to engage positively with the community, increasing the number of public events in order to meet as many of their supporters as possible;
The All Blacks Capping programme got under way and significant progress has been made in the initiative to cap more than 400 former All Blacks, with six memorable ceremonies held around the country in 2009;
Members of the rugby community continued to give generously to charities in New Zealand and around the world. The All Blacks and NZRU continued to support their charity partners, KidsCan and Plunket, while members of the rugby community were quick to act when tragedy struck, such as the L’Aquila earthquake in Italy and the Tsunami in Samoa.
Acknowledgments
Mr Hobbs paid tribute to all those involved in supporting, delivering or participating in rugby across New Zealand.
"I would like to say thank you to our many thousands of rugby fans. We do not take the important place that rugby in New Zealand holds or the support of our fans for granted.
"As we experienced in 2009, rugby has been through some testing times and a number of challenges and risks remain. But we also have some incredibly exciting opportunities ahead and we – along, I hope, with all those involved in the game – are determined to make the most of those opportunities for the future of our game and for the benefit of all those who will be involved in rugby in the future."
********
NZRU Chairman Jock Hobbs said the game faced numerous challenges in 2009, not the least of which was a global economic recession and the impact that had on rugby.
The NZRU’s financial result was impacted by the recession and the need to account for its investment in hosting Rugby World Cup 2011.
As a result, the NZRU was forced to make some tough decisions in 2009 many of which were not popular and Mr Hobbs said in making those decisions, the NZRU always did so with due consideration for the impacts that such decisions might have.
"This included the decisions to not have a New Zealand Maori programme or a Men’s B competition in 2009 and the extensive consideration at Provincial Union’s request of the future shape of the domestic competitions, all of which generated debate and criticism."
Creating Certainty
Mr Hobbs said the NZRU worked strenuously during 2009 on a large number of major projects which, collectively, had the potential to establish certainty and sustainability for the game over the next three to five years.
These major tasks, which involved lengthy, complex, and demanding negotiations, have put the game on a strong and stable footing for the future.
They include:
The NZRU, as part of the SANZAR Joint Venture, agreeing to extend the Super Rugby competition format from 2011 and to extend a conditional invitation to Argentina to join the Investec Tri Nations from 2012 to create a new "Four Nations" Championship.
As a result, the NZRU with SANZAR was able to present new and invigorated competitions in the negotiations with potential broadcast partners ahead of the end of the current agreement which ends in 2010. A heads of agreements were reached in late 2009 and completed agreements across SANZAR have now been signed by all parties. The new broadcasting arrangements deliver increased revenues from 2011 onwards for all three SANZAR countries which generates vital funds for reinvestment in all levels of rugby.
Important decisions were also made regarding the future of domestic provincial competitions. A 14-team competition has been retained for 2010, with reduced costs and with an amended structure for 2011 onwards with the Heartland Championship to remain in its current format.
Agreement on settlement terms was reached between the NZRU and the New Zealand Rugby Players Association (NZRPA) for a new Collective Employment Agreement which gives players and unions certainty around the costs and structures of professional rugby for the next three years and one that is sustainable and recognises fairly the contribution of our professional players.
"While there was some pain in all of these processes, we believe the certainty created by these decisions will provide strength for the game as it looks to capitalise on the opportunities ahead, notably the hosting of Rugby World Cup 2011," said Mr Hobbs.
Highlights
Mr Hobbs also noted the other highlights and key achievements of 2009:
The numbers of registered players increased for the second consecutive year, growing four percent from 2008 to 2009. This was matched with three percent growth in coaching numbers and twenty-three percent growth in the number of registered volunteers;
The New Zealand Under 20 team won the IRB Junior World Championship and the Junior All Blacks won the IRB Pacific Nations Cup and maintained New Zealand’s unbeaten record in that tournament;
The New Zealand Womens Sevens team made the Final of the inaugural IRB Rugby World Cup Sevens in Dubai, losing to Australia in extra time;
The Black Ferns won two out of three matches on their tour of England and played an historic first Test at Twickenham;
Three New Zealand sides made the semifinals of the Rebel Sport Super 14 and the Chiefs went on to make the Final, for the first time in the team’s history;
New Zealand maintained a strong presence at the IRB Awards, with Aaron Cruden recognised as the Junior Player of the Year and Richie McCaw winning Player of the Year – the All Blacks captain becoming the first player to win the premier award twice.
The All Blacks retained the Bledisloe Cup for the sixth year in a row. The team also recorded victories over France, Italy, Wales and England and made an effort to engage positively with the community, increasing the number of public events in order to meet as many of their supporters as possible;
The All Blacks Capping programme got under way and significant progress has been made in the initiative to cap more than 400 former All Blacks, with six memorable ceremonies held around the country in 2009;
Members of the rugby community continued to give generously to charities in New Zealand and around the world. The All Blacks and NZRU continued to support their charity partners, KidsCan and Plunket, while members of the rugby community were quick to act when tragedy struck, such as the L’Aquila earthquake in Italy and the Tsunami in Samoa.
Acknowledgments
Mr Hobbs paid tribute to all those involved in supporting, delivering or participating in rugby across New Zealand.
"I would like to say thank you to our many thousands of rugby fans. We do not take the important place that rugby in New Zealand holds or the support of our fans for granted.
"As we experienced in 2009, rugby has been through some testing times and a number of challenges and risks remain. But we also have some incredibly exciting opportunities ahead and we – along, I hope, with all those involved in the game – are determined to make the most of those opportunities for the future of our game and for the benefit of all those who will be involved in rugby in the future."
********
SUPER 14 AND ANZAC DAY
This weekend’s Rebel Sport Super 14 matches in Hamilton and Dunedin will again acknowledge ANZAC Day and the sacrifice of New Zealanders in war-time and current servicemen and women, including match-day activity and special Poppy Collections in both cities.
The Chiefs are offering special group ticket offers for veterans and those currently serving in the armed forces while the Highlanders have chosen the Returned Services Association Welfare Trust as their match-day charity.
New Zealand Rugby Union General Manager of Professional Rugby Neil Sorensen said ANZAC Day is an important part of New Zealand heritage.
“ANZAC Day is such a special day for many New Zealanders and Australians, and it’s very fitting that our Super Rugby matches this weekend pay tribute to the many men and women past and present, who have served in our armed forces,” he said.
The Highlanders are boosting fundraising efforts by donating $5 from every ticket sold through the RSA and service associations to the RSA Welfare Trust.
Tomorrow and Friday, members of the Highlanders squad will be out and about in Dunedin as part of the official Poppy Collection.
There will also be Poppy Collections at Waikato Stadium before Friday night’s Chiefs game against the Cheetahs.
Prematch entertainment at both games will pay special tribute to the ANZACs.
The Chiefs are offering special group ticket offers for veterans and those currently serving in the armed forces while the Highlanders have chosen the Returned Services Association Welfare Trust as their match-day charity.
New Zealand Rugby Union General Manager of Professional Rugby Neil Sorensen said ANZAC Day is an important part of New Zealand heritage.
“ANZAC Day is such a special day for many New Zealanders and Australians, and it’s very fitting that our Super Rugby matches this weekend pay tribute to the many men and women past and present, who have served in our armed forces,” he said.
The Highlanders are boosting fundraising efforts by donating $5 from every ticket sold through the RSA and service associations to the RSA Welfare Trust.
Tomorrow and Friday, members of the Highlanders squad will be out and about in Dunedin as part of the official Poppy Collection.
There will also be Poppy Collections at Waikato Stadium before Friday night’s Chiefs game against the Cheetahs.
Prematch entertainment at both games will pay special tribute to the ANZACs.
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
REDS STOMP BULLS
X-rays have cleared QR Reds lock Van Humphries of any bone damage to the ankle he injured in last night’s 19-12 victory over the Bulls but he remains in doubt for next Friday’s match against the Stormers at Suncorp Stadium.
A relieved Head coach Ewen McKenzie said the injury was not as bad as first feared but more will be known tomorrow once Humphries has scans on his ankle when the swelling has gone down.
“It’s not broken, but we’ll have to see how it pulls up tomorrow. Obviously he’s in doubt for Friday but we’ll know more in the next 24 hours,” McKenzie said.
There were no other injuries from the match, which elevated the Reds into the top four for the first time since the early 2000s.
The win came in front of 26,669 vocal fans and puts the Reds in fourth place on the competition ladder with 30 points, behind only the Bulls, Crusaders and Stormers.
The competition leading Bulls came hard at the Reds in the concluding stages and almost pegged back a 19-7 lead the Queenslanders enjoyed late in the game, but the Reds responded when they needed and doggedly defended their line for the final five minutes.
The Reds’ defence put an exclamation mark on the win but the win came from a beautifully constructed gameplan by coach Ewen McKenzie , who instructed his team to retain possession at all costs to limit the Bulls opportunity at set-pieces.
“All credit to the players. We had a very specific gameplan and they went out and made it happen,” McKenzie said.
“We didn’t want to give them the ball and we had to find ways to be creative. It’s hard to play 80 minutes and not give them the ball, but that was our intention. We did pretty well and we didn’t give them the lineouts they wanted to set up their game with.”
Bulls coach Frans Ludeke credited the Reds’ gameplan and their ability to retain possession as the best he had seen in “quite some time”.
“They played a really expansive style, but their retention was spot on. Definitely one of the best continuity performances I have seen in a long time,” Ludeke said.
“To keep the ball that long and to keep it off the opposition is something to see.”
The Reds’ eagerness to play with the ball helped the Bulls get first points with a length of the field movement finished off by flanker Derick Kuun coming after turnover when the Reds were on attack.
That didn’t faze the Queenslanders and their up-tempo game was a major factor in scoring 19 unanswered points and tiring the Bulls’ large forward pack.
The Bulls threw everything at the Reds in the final stages but a turnover by wily veteran Sean Hardman on their goal line spelt the end of a prolonged raid and coincidentally the match.
Starting hooker Saia Faingaa and openside flanker Daniel Braid put in tireless performances, while the Reds’ front-row drew two penalties and a tighthead from their Springboks counterparts at the scrum.
“They (players) showed plenty of character and application over the 80 (minutes). Everyone probably thought we were going to wilt, but we went the distance,” McKenzie said.
Going into the game the match was billed as a great opportunity for flyhalf Quade Cooper and captain Genia to test themselves against Bulls and Springboks’ playmakers Fourie du Preez and Morne Steyn.
After passing the test with flying colours, McKenzie praised his halves combinations for carrying out their gameplan to perfection.
“We knew they would mark Quade’s channel pretty hard, so Will had to take a fair bit of the workload and pump the short side. We just tried to get them confused by working both sides of the ruck,” he said.
Flanker Scott Higginbotham scored the Reds’ first try after running 80 minutes to reclaim a ball sitting on the ground following a turnover and kick by Genia, who said he was amazed by the pace of the 109kg flanker in beating the Bulls ' centres to the ball.
“I thought it was Rodney (Davies). I thought it was him chasing but I looked up and it was Higgers,” Genia quipped.
Their second came from a lineout steal and ended when Davies capitalised on a backline movement that went through four sets of hands – Genia, Chambers, Faingaa and Ioane.
Cooper had a mixed night with the boot, but ended with three penalty goals.
QR Reds 19 (Scott Higginbotham, Rod Davies tries, Quade Cooper 3 pens) def Bulls 12 (Derick Kuun, Pedrie Wannenburg tries, Morne Steyn con)
A relieved Head coach Ewen McKenzie said the injury was not as bad as first feared but more will be known tomorrow once Humphries has scans on his ankle when the swelling has gone down.
“It’s not broken, but we’ll have to see how it pulls up tomorrow. Obviously he’s in doubt for Friday but we’ll know more in the next 24 hours,” McKenzie said.
There were no other injuries from the match, which elevated the Reds into the top four for the first time since the early 2000s.
The win came in front of 26,669 vocal fans and puts the Reds in fourth place on the competition ladder with 30 points, behind only the Bulls, Crusaders and Stormers.
The competition leading Bulls came hard at the Reds in the concluding stages and almost pegged back a 19-7 lead the Queenslanders enjoyed late in the game, but the Reds responded when they needed and doggedly defended their line for the final five minutes.
The Reds’ defence put an exclamation mark on the win but the win came from a beautifully constructed gameplan by coach Ewen McKenzie , who instructed his team to retain possession at all costs to limit the Bulls opportunity at set-pieces.
“All credit to the players. We had a very specific gameplan and they went out and made it happen,” McKenzie said.
“We didn’t want to give them the ball and we had to find ways to be creative. It’s hard to play 80 minutes and not give them the ball, but that was our intention. We did pretty well and we didn’t give them the lineouts they wanted to set up their game with.”
Bulls coach Frans Ludeke credited the Reds’ gameplan and their ability to retain possession as the best he had seen in “quite some time”.
“They played a really expansive style, but their retention was spot on. Definitely one of the best continuity performances I have seen in a long time,” Ludeke said.
“To keep the ball that long and to keep it off the opposition is something to see.”
The Reds’ eagerness to play with the ball helped the Bulls get first points with a length of the field movement finished off by flanker Derick Kuun coming after turnover when the Reds were on attack.
That didn’t faze the Queenslanders and their up-tempo game was a major factor in scoring 19 unanswered points and tiring the Bulls’ large forward pack.
The Bulls threw everything at the Reds in the final stages but a turnover by wily veteran Sean Hardman on their goal line spelt the end of a prolonged raid and coincidentally the match.
Starting hooker Saia Faingaa and openside flanker Daniel Braid put in tireless performances, while the Reds’ front-row drew two penalties and a tighthead from their Springboks counterparts at the scrum.
“They (players) showed plenty of character and application over the 80 (minutes). Everyone probably thought we were going to wilt, but we went the distance,” McKenzie said.
Going into the game the match was billed as a great opportunity for flyhalf Quade Cooper and captain Genia to test themselves against Bulls and Springboks’ playmakers Fourie du Preez and Morne Steyn.
After passing the test with flying colours, McKenzie praised his halves combinations for carrying out their gameplan to perfection.
“We knew they would mark Quade’s channel pretty hard, so Will had to take a fair bit of the workload and pump the short side. We just tried to get them confused by working both sides of the ruck,” he said.
Flanker Scott Higginbotham scored the Reds’ first try after running 80 minutes to reclaim a ball sitting on the ground following a turnover and kick by Genia, who said he was amazed by the pace of the 109kg flanker in beating the Bulls ' centres to the ball.
“I thought it was Rodney (Davies). I thought it was him chasing but I looked up and it was Higgers,” Genia quipped.
Their second came from a lineout steal and ended when Davies capitalised on a backline movement that went through four sets of hands – Genia, Chambers, Faingaa and Ioane.
Cooper had a mixed night with the boot, but ended with three penalty goals.
QR Reds 19 (Scott Higginbotham, Rod Davies tries, Quade Cooper 3 pens) def Bulls 12 (Derick Kuun, Pedrie Wannenburg tries, Morne Steyn con)
View From The Stand
The QR Reds today announced that four Australian Sevens stars from the QAS Reds Academy have been signed for the Reds senior squad in 2011.
Liam Gill, Ed Quirk, Dominic Shipperley and Kimami Sitauti have been developed through the talent development pathway to the point where they are now ready to step up to the Reds.
Head Coach Ewen McKenzie said all four teenagers had been identified as players the Reds wanted to keep long before they came to prominence on the international stage with eye-catching performances on the iRB World Sevens circuit.
"(Academy Head Coach) Paul Carozza and his team – supported by the Premier clubs – are doing a great job in identifying, nurturing and developing guys through the Academy to the point where they can take the next step with confidence," McKenzie said.
" Queensland is producing some terrific rugby talent and we're working hard at retaining the best to ensure that the medium and long term future of the Reds is secure.
“When you’re in a state that develops rugby talent, you have to make early decisions and be decisive. The guys we are announcing today have all done great things in their rugby careers already and we see very bright futures.”
The youngest of the four, flanker Gill was tour captain of the Australian Schoolboys last year and has already been blooded at senior level, scoring a try off the bench for a Queensland 2nd XV in a pre-season trial match against an Australian Barbarians side.
Fellow backrower Quirk also had a decorated Australian Schools career before stepping up to the senior ranks in 2009 in international Sevens and Queensland Premier Rugby, winning Colt of the Year.
Outside back Dominic Shipperley joined the international Sevens circuit in 2009 and also played for a Queensland XV against Japan last year, showing dazzling speed and footwork to score the winning try late in the match.
Kimami Sitauti is another fast and elusive winger, who played for Souths in the 2009 Premier Grand Final against Brothers before heading overseas with the Australian Schoolboys tour to the UK . New to the international Sevens circuit this year he has proved a sensation with his speed and power.
Gill said it was an easy decision to sign, having grown up in Queensland .
“It makes it even more rewarding knowing that they’re happy to have us here as much as we want to stay,” Gill said.
Quirk said he couldn’t wait to receive an opportunity next season with the Reds enjoying plenty of success on the field.
“There’s a lot of hype with the Reds doing so well this year and that fuels the younger guys to come through and be part of that,” Quirk said.
“It makes us work harder. You really want to work hard to earn a spot.”
Player Profiles
Liam Gill
Liam was named tour captain for the Australian School Boys tour of the UK in 2009. A mobile flanker who causes plenty of trouble at the breakdown for the opposition, the talented teen is a member of the Australian Sevens squad for 2010. Born in Melbourne , Liam lived in the United States for several years before relocating to Brisbane .
Position Flanker
Date Of Birth 8/6/1992
Place of Birth Melbourne
Weight 86kg
Height 1.84m
Junior Club Sunnybank Juniors
School Gregory Terrace
Ed Quirk
Ed represented Queensland and Australia as a Schoolboy and won the Bronze Boot Award for being the best player on the field during a New Zealand v Australia Schoolboys match in 2008. His representative honours include QLD Under 16s (2007); Queensland Schoolboys (2008); Australia A (2008); Australian Schoolboys (2008); QAS Reds Academy (2009-10, Australian Sevens (2009-2010). Ed’s performances with Easts in Premier Rugby in 2009 earned him the award of Colt of the Year.
Position No. 6 - Blindside Flanker
Date Of Birth 28/08/1991
Place of Birth Brisbane
Weight 95kgs
Height 190cm
Club Easts
Junior Club Redlands
School Brisbane State High School
Dominic Shipperley
An accomplished athlete, Dominic made his Australian Sevens debut in early 2009, relying on sheer pace to blitz his opposition and quickly becoming a prolific try scorer on the Sevens circuit. He toured the UK with the Australian Sevens, playing in London and Edinburgh in early 2009, before returning home to resume his studies in engineering and commerce at the University of Queensland . His representative honours also include: Australian Schools (2008); QLD A (2009); U19 City-Country (2009). He scored a dazzling late try for a Queensland XV to secure a 24-17 victory over Japan in a midweek match in 2009, evading two defenders with some fancy footwork and blistering speed along the left touch line to seal the match.
Position Outside Backs - Wing/Outside Centre/Fullback
Date Of Birth 4/1/1991
Place of Birth Redcliffe, Qld
Weight 86kg
Height 1.85m
Club Brothers
School St Josephs Nudgee College
Kimami Sitauti
A fast and elusive winger, Australian-born Kimami pulled on the gold jersey for the first time in 2009 after representing New Zealand in the U17s and Auckland U16s. He was selected in the GPS 1st XV and Queensland Schools in 2009 and was awarded the man of the match in his Australian Schools debut against Tonga . The Nudgee college product played on the wing for Souths in the 2009 Premier Grand Final before heading overseas with the Australian Schools tour of the UK . Snapped up on his return for the Australian Sevens squad, Sitauti scored his first IRB Sevens try when he touched down in Australia ’s opening victory over the unpredictable Papua New Guinean side in Wellington in 2010.
Position Wing
Date Of Birth 12/04/1991
Place of Birth Sydney
Weight 90kg
Height 1.83m
Club Souths
Junior Club Ponsonby (NZ)
School Nudgee College
Liam Gill, Ed Quirk, Dominic Shipperley and Kimami Sitauti have been developed through the talent development pathway to the point where they are now ready to step up to the Reds.
Head Coach Ewen McKenzie said all four teenagers had been identified as players the Reds wanted to keep long before they came to prominence on the international stage with eye-catching performances on the iRB World Sevens circuit.
"(Academy Head Coach) Paul Carozza and his team – supported by the Premier clubs – are doing a great job in identifying, nurturing and developing guys through the Academy to the point where they can take the next step with confidence," McKenzie said.
" Queensland is producing some terrific rugby talent and we're working hard at retaining the best to ensure that the medium and long term future of the Reds is secure.
“When you’re in a state that develops rugby talent, you have to make early decisions and be decisive. The guys we are announcing today have all done great things in their rugby careers already and we see very bright futures.”
The youngest of the four, flanker Gill was tour captain of the Australian Schoolboys last year and has already been blooded at senior level, scoring a try off the bench for a Queensland 2nd XV in a pre-season trial match against an Australian Barbarians side.
Fellow backrower Quirk also had a decorated Australian Schools career before stepping up to the senior ranks in 2009 in international Sevens and Queensland Premier Rugby, winning Colt of the Year.
Outside back Dominic Shipperley joined the international Sevens circuit in 2009 and also played for a Queensland XV against Japan last year, showing dazzling speed and footwork to score the winning try late in the match.
Kimami Sitauti is another fast and elusive winger, who played for Souths in the 2009 Premier Grand Final against Brothers before heading overseas with the Australian Schoolboys tour to the UK . New to the international Sevens circuit this year he has proved a sensation with his speed and power.
Gill said it was an easy decision to sign, having grown up in Queensland .
“It makes it even more rewarding knowing that they’re happy to have us here as much as we want to stay,” Gill said.
Quirk said he couldn’t wait to receive an opportunity next season with the Reds enjoying plenty of success on the field.
“There’s a lot of hype with the Reds doing so well this year and that fuels the younger guys to come through and be part of that,” Quirk said.
“It makes us work harder. You really want to work hard to earn a spot.”
Player Profiles
Liam Gill
Liam was named tour captain for the Australian School Boys tour of the UK in 2009. A mobile flanker who causes plenty of trouble at the breakdown for the opposition, the talented teen is a member of the Australian Sevens squad for 2010. Born in Melbourne , Liam lived in the United States for several years before relocating to Brisbane .
Position Flanker
Date Of Birth 8/6/1992
Place of Birth Melbourne
Weight 86kg
Height 1.84m
Junior Club Sunnybank Juniors
School Gregory Terrace
Ed Quirk
Ed represented Queensland and Australia as a Schoolboy and won the Bronze Boot Award for being the best player on the field during a New Zealand v Australia Schoolboys match in 2008. His representative honours include QLD Under 16s (2007); Queensland Schoolboys (2008); Australia A (2008); Australian Schoolboys (2008); QAS Reds Academy (2009-10, Australian Sevens (2009-2010). Ed’s performances with Easts in Premier Rugby in 2009 earned him the award of Colt of the Year.
Position No. 6 - Blindside Flanker
Date Of Birth 28/08/1991
Place of Birth Brisbane
Weight 95kgs
Height 190cm
Club Easts
Junior Club Redlands
School Brisbane State High School
Dominic Shipperley
An accomplished athlete, Dominic made his Australian Sevens debut in early 2009, relying on sheer pace to blitz his opposition and quickly becoming a prolific try scorer on the Sevens circuit. He toured the UK with the Australian Sevens, playing in London and Edinburgh in early 2009, before returning home to resume his studies in engineering and commerce at the University of Queensland . His representative honours also include: Australian Schools (2008); QLD A (2009); U19 City-Country (2009). He scored a dazzling late try for a Queensland XV to secure a 24-17 victory over Japan in a midweek match in 2009, evading two defenders with some fancy footwork and blistering speed along the left touch line to seal the match.
Position Outside Backs - Wing/Outside Centre/Fullback
Date Of Birth 4/1/1991
Place of Birth Redcliffe, Qld
Weight 86kg
Height 1.85m
Club Brothers
School St Josephs Nudgee College
Kimami Sitauti
A fast and elusive winger, Australian-born Kimami pulled on the gold jersey for the first time in 2009 after representing New Zealand in the U17s and Auckland U16s. He was selected in the GPS 1st XV and Queensland Schools in 2009 and was awarded the man of the match in his Australian Schools debut against Tonga . The Nudgee college product played on the wing for Souths in the 2009 Premier Grand Final before heading overseas with the Australian Schools tour of the UK . Snapped up on his return for the Australian Sevens squad, Sitauti scored his first IRB Sevens try when he touched down in Australia ’s opening victory over the unpredictable Papua New Guinean side in Wellington in 2010.
Position Wing
Date Of Birth 12/04/1991
Place of Birth Sydney
Weight 90kg
Height 1.83m
Club Souths
Junior Club Ponsonby (NZ)
School Nudgee College
Friday, April 16, 2010
Carter out of home game
Crusaders first-five Dan Carter has been ruled out of tomorrow night’s Rebel Sport Super 14 match against
the Cheetahs at AMI Stadium due to a hip joint injury.
Carter picked up the injury, which is expected to be only a short-term problem, early in the week.
He was tested at the Crusaders captain’s run this morning and a decision was made to withdraw him from
the match.
Dan Bowden, who was initially listed on the reserves bench, will move to the first-five position to make his
Crusaders debut.
Wider training group player Tu Umaga-Marshall comes on to the reserves bench. It will be the first time he
has been included in the Crusaders match-day squad.
Halfback Andy Ellis, who missed last week’s match against the Waratahs with concussion and was
bracketed with Willi Heinz on the bench for tomorrow night’s match, has been ruled out.
Crusaders team to play Cheetahs at AMI Stadium, kick-off 7.35pm:
1. Wyatt Crockett
2. Ti’i Paulo
3. Ben Franks
4. Chris Jack
5. Sam Whitelock
6. George Whitelock
7. Richie McCaw (c)
8. Thomas Waldrom
9. Kahn Fotuali’i
10. Dan Bowden
11. Sean Maitland
12. Ryan Crotty
13. Tim Bateman
14. Jared Payne
15. Colin Slade
16. Dan Perrin
17. Owen Franks
18. Brad Thorn
19. Jonathan Poff
20. Willi Heinz
21. Tu Umaga-Marshall
22. Zac Guildford
the Cheetahs at AMI Stadium due to a hip joint injury.
Carter picked up the injury, which is expected to be only a short-term problem, early in the week.
He was tested at the Crusaders captain’s run this morning and a decision was made to withdraw him from
the match.
Dan Bowden, who was initially listed on the reserves bench, will move to the first-five position to make his
Crusaders debut.
Wider training group player Tu Umaga-Marshall comes on to the reserves bench. It will be the first time he
has been included in the Crusaders match-day squad.
Halfback Andy Ellis, who missed last week’s match against the Waratahs with concussion and was
bracketed with Willi Heinz on the bench for tomorrow night’s match, has been ruled out.
Crusaders team to play Cheetahs at AMI Stadium, kick-off 7.35pm:
1. Wyatt Crockett
2. Ti’i Paulo
3. Ben Franks
4. Chris Jack
5. Sam Whitelock
6. George Whitelock
7. Richie McCaw (c)
8. Thomas Waldrom
9. Kahn Fotuali’i
10. Dan Bowden
11. Sean Maitland
12. Ryan Crotty
13. Tim Bateman
14. Jared Payne
15. Colin Slade
16. Dan Perrin
17. Owen Franks
18. Brad Thorn
19. Jonathan Poff
20. Willi Heinz
21. Tu Umaga-Marshall
22. Zac Guildford
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
GOATS AND RUGBY
The Reds began their three match rugby tour of South Africa offering to donate one farm goat for every try scored and a “bonus goat” every time they racked up a bonus point earning four tries or more. The campaign struck a chord with fans who also donated cash to the appeal, while Fox Sports jumped aboard by matching the Reds “goat for goat”. Thirteen tries later (plus two “bonus goats”) and the total passed $2,000, or 54 goats to be donated to Oxfam’s Unwrapped initiative, which provides the animals to traditional goat herding villagers in Mozambique . The fifth placed Reds now take their try scoring skills to Suncorp Stadium this Saturday when they play competition leaders the Bulls in front of a loyal home crowd, delighted to see them back after a month’s absence (kickoff 7.30pm). Who got the goats? The Reds’ outside backs got among the goats with seven tries between wingers Rod Davies (2) and Digby Ioane, outside centre Will Chambers (2) and fullback Peter Hynes (2).
Flyhalf Quade Cooper also scored a brace of goats while captain Will Genia chipped in with a single. Among the forwards, prop Greg Holmes, hooker Saia Faingaa and backrower Ezra Taylor also contributed a goat each and helped achieve a four try “bonus goat” in two of the games. Quade Cooper 2 triesRod Davies 2 triesWill Chambers 2Peter Hynes 2Greg Holmes 1 Saia Faingaa 1Ezra Taylor 1Digby Ioane 1Will Genia 1(plus two “bonus goats” for four tries or more)
Flyhalf Quade Cooper also scored a brace of goats while captain Will Genia chipped in with a single. Among the forwards, prop Greg Holmes, hooker Saia Faingaa and backrower Ezra Taylor also contributed a goat each and helped achieve a four try “bonus goat” in two of the games. Quade Cooper 2 triesRod Davies 2 triesWill Chambers 2Peter Hynes 2Greg Holmes 1 Saia Faingaa 1Ezra Taylor 1Digby Ioane 1Will Genia 1(plus two “bonus goats” for four tries or more)
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
REDS RUGBY
Experienced QR Reds lock Van Humphries has pinpointed the challenge of countering the lineout mastery of Bulls captain Victor Matfield as crucial to the Reds chances of celebrating their return to Suncorp Stadium on Saturday night (kickoff 7:30pm) with a win.
The Reds lineout functioned reasonably well for most of their recent three game tour of South Africa , where they grabbed 11 competition points and two wins to sit in fifth place on the Investec Bank Super 14 ladder, but they face a daunting challenge in Matfield, the 92 test-cap Springboks lineout general.
“He has been (the best lock) going round for some time. He has seen pretty much everything there’s to see,” Humphries said.
“From what I gather he is very analytical. He studies the opposition lineout and looks for keys. That’s something we are going to try to turn around on him this weekend.
“But we’ve been running pretty well in regard to lineouts so far and we won’t be looking to change too much. We will just concentrate on our own game and try to throw a few things at him he hasn’t seen.
“For myself, it will be a bit of a test this weekend but it’s something I’m looking forward to.”
The Bulls have been the benchmark team this season and Humphries puts that down to their ability to adjust better than most to the new law interpretations at the breakdown, their experienced forward pack, and the ability for flyhalf Morne Steyn to punish any opposition ill-discipline with his goal kicking boot.
“I think they are a different team to the one two years ago. They are a complete side and it’s very hard to shut down what they do,” Humphries said.
“We have to deprive them of the ball because with ball in hand they are a very dominant team. With the rules the way they are with penalties going with the attacking team, they can kick goals from 50 metres out.
“I think we will stick to the plan we have used the past couple of weeks and muscle up through the forwards and let our backs do the rest.”
Flanker Scott Higginbotham also singled out the Bulls’ tight-five as their biggest obstacle.
“We just need to match them up-front, which we didn’t do against the Sharks,” said Higginbotham, referring to the Reds’ inability to match the Sharks’ physicality at the breakdown a fortnight ago in their 30-28 loss.
“They (Bulls) have a giant pack: scrums, lineouts and rucks are going to be tough. They are a lot more gelled than the Lions or Cheetahs.”
After a month long tour in South Africa , Humphries said he hoped fans would turn out in force to support the Reds as they head into the final third of the competition.
“When we are showing glimpses of form recently fans have responded and we really hope they do so this weekend. You don’t get a much better spectacle than playing the Bulls at home in Brisbane ,” Humphries said.
Tickets for the Bulls match are on sale through Ticketek.
Meanwhile, the Reds are looking to recruit the loudest and proudest fans they can muster to get behind the team this Saturday at Suncorp Stadium.
The first 200 fans to sign up for the official QR Reds cheer squad at Ballymore from 4pm today (Wednesday) will receive a free ticket, shirt and bandana for the Bulls game.
The Reds lineout functioned reasonably well for most of their recent three game tour of South Africa , where they grabbed 11 competition points and two wins to sit in fifth place on the Investec Bank Super 14 ladder, but they face a daunting challenge in Matfield, the 92 test-cap Springboks lineout general.
“He has been (the best lock) going round for some time. He has seen pretty much everything there’s to see,” Humphries said.
“From what I gather he is very analytical. He studies the opposition lineout and looks for keys. That’s something we are going to try to turn around on him this weekend.
“But we’ve been running pretty well in regard to lineouts so far and we won’t be looking to change too much. We will just concentrate on our own game and try to throw a few things at him he hasn’t seen.
“For myself, it will be a bit of a test this weekend but it’s something I’m looking forward to.”
The Bulls have been the benchmark team this season and Humphries puts that down to their ability to adjust better than most to the new law interpretations at the breakdown, their experienced forward pack, and the ability for flyhalf Morne Steyn to punish any opposition ill-discipline with his goal kicking boot.
“I think they are a different team to the one two years ago. They are a complete side and it’s very hard to shut down what they do,” Humphries said.
“We have to deprive them of the ball because with ball in hand they are a very dominant team. With the rules the way they are with penalties going with the attacking team, they can kick goals from 50 metres out.
“I think we will stick to the plan we have used the past couple of weeks and muscle up through the forwards and let our backs do the rest.”
Flanker Scott Higginbotham also singled out the Bulls’ tight-five as their biggest obstacle.
“We just need to match them up-front, which we didn’t do against the Sharks,” said Higginbotham, referring to the Reds’ inability to match the Sharks’ physicality at the breakdown a fortnight ago in their 30-28 loss.
“They (Bulls) have a giant pack: scrums, lineouts and rucks are going to be tough. They are a lot more gelled than the Lions or Cheetahs.”
After a month long tour in South Africa , Humphries said he hoped fans would turn out in force to support the Reds as they head into the final third of the competition.
“When we are showing glimpses of form recently fans have responded and we really hope they do so this weekend. You don’t get a much better spectacle than playing the Bulls at home in Brisbane ,” Humphries said.
Tickets for the Bulls match are on sale through Ticketek.
Meanwhile, the Reds are looking to recruit the loudest and proudest fans they can muster to get behind the team this Saturday at Suncorp Stadium.
The first 200 fans to sign up for the official QR Reds cheer squad at Ballymore from 4pm today (Wednesday) will receive a free ticket, shirt and bandana for the Bulls game.
Monday, April 12, 2010
CAMP FOR WOMEN'S RUGBY WORLD CUP
Thirty-four players will assemble in Rotorua this week for a week-long training camp in preparation for the IRB Women’s Rugby World Cup in England later this year.
The camp is the first of two Rugby World Cup trials, with the second in the form of a regional competition comprising four teams and 96 players. The competition will be held at Hopuhopu outside Hamilton over Queen’s Birthday weekend.
The 26-player squad for the IRB Women’s Rugby World Cup will be named in late June and the players will then assemble for a training camp in mid-July. The Black Ferns will then come together again in Auckland in August before departing for England.
Black Ferns Coach Brian Evans said that the proposed camps will prepare his players well for the Women’s World Cup.
“The regional tournament will give us a great opportunity to look at a larger group of players prior to selecting our squad for the World Cup and I am confident that we will have a strong team and be well prepared to defend our title come August,” he added.
The following 34 players will assembled in Rotorua
Shakira Baker Wellington
Zoey Berry Otago
Kelly Brazier Otago
Olivia Coady Canterbury
Kendra Cocksedge Canterbury
Barbara Chittock Canterbury
Victoria Grant (nee Blackledge) Auckland
Halie Hurring Canterbury
Victoria Heighway Auckland
Trish Hina Auckland
Carla Hohepa Otago
Linda Itunu Auckland
Emma Jensen Auckland
Crystal Kaua Auckland
Justine Lavea Auckland
Ruth McKay Manawatu
Rebecca Mahoney (nee Hull) Wellington
Diane Maliukaetau Auckland
Beth Mallard Otago
Huriana Manuel Auckland
Amanda Murphy Canterbury
Karina Penetito Auckland
Casey Robertson Canterbury
Vita Robinson Auckland
Claire Rowat Wellington
Melissa Ruscoe Canterbury
Stephanie Te Ohaere-Fox Canterbury
Anika Tiplady Canterbury
Doris Taufateau Auckland
Teresa Te Tamaki Auckland
Kimberly Smith Canterbury
Aimee Sutorius Wellington
Shaan Waru Hawke’s Bay
Renee Wickcliffe Auckland
Unavailable for camp: Aroha Savage (injured) and Fiao’o Faamausili, Amiria Rule (injured), Faanati Aniseko (bereavement leave).
*******
The camp is the first of two Rugby World Cup trials, with the second in the form of a regional competition comprising four teams and 96 players. The competition will be held at Hopuhopu outside Hamilton over Queen’s Birthday weekend.
The 26-player squad for the IRB Women’s Rugby World Cup will be named in late June and the players will then assemble for a training camp in mid-July. The Black Ferns will then come together again in Auckland in August before departing for England.
Black Ferns Coach Brian Evans said that the proposed camps will prepare his players well for the Women’s World Cup.
“The regional tournament will give us a great opportunity to look at a larger group of players prior to selecting our squad for the World Cup and I am confident that we will have a strong team and be well prepared to defend our title come August,” he added.
The following 34 players will assembled in Rotorua
Shakira Baker Wellington
Zoey Berry Otago
Kelly Brazier Otago
Olivia Coady Canterbury
Kendra Cocksedge Canterbury
Barbara Chittock Canterbury
Victoria Grant (nee Blackledge) Auckland
Halie Hurring Canterbury
Victoria Heighway Auckland
Trish Hina Auckland
Carla Hohepa Otago
Linda Itunu Auckland
Emma Jensen Auckland
Crystal Kaua Auckland
Justine Lavea Auckland
Ruth McKay Manawatu
Rebecca Mahoney (nee Hull) Wellington
Diane Maliukaetau Auckland
Beth Mallard Otago
Huriana Manuel Auckland
Amanda Murphy Canterbury
Karina Penetito Auckland
Casey Robertson Canterbury
Vita Robinson Auckland
Claire Rowat Wellington
Melissa Ruscoe Canterbury
Stephanie Te Ohaere-Fox Canterbury
Anika Tiplady Canterbury
Doris Taufateau Auckland
Teresa Te Tamaki Auckland
Kimberly Smith Canterbury
Aimee Sutorius Wellington
Shaan Waru Hawke’s Bay
Renee Wickcliffe Auckland
Unavailable for camp: Aroha Savage (injured) and Fiao’o Faamausili, Amiria Rule (injured), Faanati Aniseko (bereavement leave).
*******
Brumbies record first bp win
The CA Brumbies have celebrated their first bonus point win of the Investec Bank Super 14 season with a runaway 61-15 win over the Cheetahs at Canberra Stadium tonight.
Coming off the bye, the home side showed some early rustiness, unable to capitalise on countless try-scoring opportunities. However, the first half frustration was cast aside in the second term with the ACT running in six touchdowns in the nine-tries-to-two rout.
Prop Ben Alexander recorded his second two-try haul of the season while flanker Rocky Elsom was at his barnstorming best – carrying the ball forward at everyone opportunity, wrestling each Free State breakaway runner to the ground in cover defence and finishing with a try in a man-of-the-match performance.
CA Brumbies Head Coach Andy Friend said while it was a pleasing result, there was room for improvement.
“We wanted to come out tonight and have a solid win and we did that,” he said. “There’s still way too many dropped ball and forced passes but at the end of the day to put 60 points on a side, we’ve obviously done something well.
“There was certainly frustration at half time. The boys just felt we were trying to force things rather than allow them to happen but we tightened things up and in the last 15 minutes we played some pretty good football.”
While the CA Brumbies held a lion’s share of early possession, it was the Cheetahs who recorded first points through the boot of Naas Olivier with a fifth minute penalty goal.
Presented with a golden opportunity to level the scores in the 10th minute, the CA Brumbies turned down a straightforward penalty goal opting instead to push for a try. Stephen Hoiles’ decision paid dividends when after seven phases the CA Brumbies captain burrowed over with TMO George Ayoub confirming the try.
Matt Giteau enjoyed a golden night with the boot with the inside centre converting the first six tries in a flawless goal kicking display.
A yellow card to Barend Pieterse in the 18th minute further handicapped the visitors, with Patrick Phibbs capitalising on the one-man advantage. With the CA Brumbies pressuring the Cheetahs’ line, the scrumhalf’s clearing pass was knocked down by his opposite number, Tewis de Bruyn, only to have Phibbs collect the ball on the bounce to dart through and score.
With three minutes remaining in the half, a simple switch pass from Giteau provided Tyrone Smith a clear path to the tryline to give his side a 21-3 lead at the break.
At 43 minutes the CA Brumbies’ bonus point try started with Giteau’s 40-metre run down the left side of the field and finished with Elsom skirting around the defensive line in the right-hand corner.
The visitors provided some resistance with second half tries to Sarel Pretorius and Adriaan Strauss but the best was yet to come from the home side.
Winger Adam Ashley-Cooper crossed for his first try after 56 minutes when he caught the defence napping with a quick tap on the Cheetahs’ 22-metre line, fending off Pretorius to dive over the line.
Holding a 42-15 lead with eight minutes remaining, the CA Brumbies added three late tries to blow out the winning margin.
Flyhalf Matt Toomua added a slick try at 72 minutes when he sliced through from 30 metres out and was fortunate not to incur any serious injury when he collided with the goal posts in the act of scoring.
Alexander, who crossed for his first at the 50-minute mark, added a second try with a trademark pick-and-drive from the back of a ruck with three minutes left in the game.
The home side provided the 14,111 spectators with a spectacular finish, scoring a final five-pointer from the restart of their previous try. Replacement hooker Huia Edmonds found space through the middle of the field and chipped through from 10 metres inside the Cheetahs’ half with the ball bouncing up perfectly to give winger Alfie Mafi his maiden Investec Bank Super 14 try. Fullback Julian Huxley added his second conversion from three attempts to complete the 46-point landslide.
The CA Brumbies will have a short turnaround in preparation for their match against the Hurricanes at Canberra Stadium on Friday, 16 April.
MATCH DETAILS
Brumbies 61 (Ben Alexander 2; Stephen Hoiles, Patrick Phibbs, Tyrone Smith, Rocky Elsom, Adam Ashley-Cooper, Matt Toomua, Alfie Mafi tries; Matt Giteau 6/6 conversions, Julian Huxley 2/3 conversions) defeated Cheetahs 15 (Sarel Pretorius, Adriaan Strauss tries; Naas Olivier 0/1 conversions, 1/1 penalty goals, Riaan Vijoen 1/1 conversion) at Canberra Stadium, Canberra .
Half time: Brumbies 21-3
Referee: Bryce Lawrence (NZ)
Crowd: 14,111
Brumbies
1. Ben Alexander
2. Stephen Moore
3. Salesi Ma’afu
4. Mitchell Chapman
5. Ben Hand
6. Rocky Elsom
7. Michael Hooper
8. Stephen Hoiles (c)
9. Patrick Phibbs
10. Matt Toomua
11. Adam Ashley-Cooper
12. Matt Giteau
13. Tyrone Smith
14. Pat McCabe
15. Julian Huxley
Reserves
16. Huia Edmonds
17. Guy Shepherdson
18. Mark Chisholm
19. Colby Faingaa
20. James Stannard
21. Ed Stubbs
22. Alfie Mafi
Replacements
18. Mark Chisholm for 4. Mitchell Chapman (14th minute)
16. Huia Edmonds for 2. Stephen Moore (50th minute)
20. James Stannard for 9. Patrick Phibbs (blood – 50th minute)
19. Colby Faingaa for 7. Michael Hooper (55th minute)
17. Guy Shepherdson for 3. Salesi Ma’afu (56th minute)
21. Ed Stubbs for 12. Matt Giteau (61st minute)
22. Alfie Mafi for 11. Adam Ashley-Cooper (62nd minute)
9. Patrick Phibbs for 20. James Stannard (blood return – 64th minute)
20. James Stannard for 10. Matt Toomua (72nd minute)
Cheetahs
1. Coenie Oosthuizen
2. Adriaan Strauss (c)
3. WP Nel
4. Izak van der Westhuizen
5. Waltie Vermeulen
6. Hendro Scholtz
7. Barend Pieterse
8. Kabamba Floors
9. Tewis de Bruyn
10. Naas Olivier
11. Jongi Nokwe
12. Meyer Bosman
13. Corne Uys
14. Wilmaure Louw
15. Hennie Daniller
Reserves
16. Ryno Barnes
17. Wian du Preez
18. Nico Breedt
19. Davon Raubenheimer
20. Sarel Pretorius
21. Robert Ebersohn
22. Riaan Viljoen
Replacements
Yellow Cards
7. Barend Pieterse (18th minute)
8. Kabamba Floors (77th minute)
NEXT GAME:
Investec Bank Super 14: Week 10
Brumbies v Hurricanes
Canberra Stadium, Canberra
Friday, 16 April 2010
‘
Coming off the bye, the home side showed some early rustiness, unable to capitalise on countless try-scoring opportunities. However, the first half frustration was cast aside in the second term with the ACT running in six touchdowns in the nine-tries-to-two rout.
Prop Ben Alexander recorded his second two-try haul of the season while flanker Rocky Elsom was at his barnstorming best – carrying the ball forward at everyone opportunity, wrestling each Free State breakaway runner to the ground in cover defence and finishing with a try in a man-of-the-match performance.
CA Brumbies Head Coach Andy Friend said while it was a pleasing result, there was room for improvement.
“We wanted to come out tonight and have a solid win and we did that,” he said. “There’s still way too many dropped ball and forced passes but at the end of the day to put 60 points on a side, we’ve obviously done something well.
“There was certainly frustration at half time. The boys just felt we were trying to force things rather than allow them to happen but we tightened things up and in the last 15 minutes we played some pretty good football.”
While the CA Brumbies held a lion’s share of early possession, it was the Cheetahs who recorded first points through the boot of Naas Olivier with a fifth minute penalty goal.
Presented with a golden opportunity to level the scores in the 10th minute, the CA Brumbies turned down a straightforward penalty goal opting instead to push for a try. Stephen Hoiles’ decision paid dividends when after seven phases the CA Brumbies captain burrowed over with TMO George Ayoub confirming the try.
Matt Giteau enjoyed a golden night with the boot with the inside centre converting the first six tries in a flawless goal kicking display.
A yellow card to Barend Pieterse in the 18th minute further handicapped the visitors, with Patrick Phibbs capitalising on the one-man advantage. With the CA Brumbies pressuring the Cheetahs’ line, the scrumhalf’s clearing pass was knocked down by his opposite number, Tewis de Bruyn, only to have Phibbs collect the ball on the bounce to dart through and score.
With three minutes remaining in the half, a simple switch pass from Giteau provided Tyrone Smith a clear path to the tryline to give his side a 21-3 lead at the break.
At 43 minutes the CA Brumbies’ bonus point try started with Giteau’s 40-metre run down the left side of the field and finished with Elsom skirting around the defensive line in the right-hand corner.
The visitors provided some resistance with second half tries to Sarel Pretorius and Adriaan Strauss but the best was yet to come from the home side.
Winger Adam Ashley-Cooper crossed for his first try after 56 minutes when he caught the defence napping with a quick tap on the Cheetahs’ 22-metre line, fending off Pretorius to dive over the line.
Holding a 42-15 lead with eight minutes remaining, the CA Brumbies added three late tries to blow out the winning margin.
Flyhalf Matt Toomua added a slick try at 72 minutes when he sliced through from 30 metres out and was fortunate not to incur any serious injury when he collided with the goal posts in the act of scoring.
Alexander, who crossed for his first at the 50-minute mark, added a second try with a trademark pick-and-drive from the back of a ruck with three minutes left in the game.
The home side provided the 14,111 spectators with a spectacular finish, scoring a final five-pointer from the restart of their previous try. Replacement hooker Huia Edmonds found space through the middle of the field and chipped through from 10 metres inside the Cheetahs’ half with the ball bouncing up perfectly to give winger Alfie Mafi his maiden Investec Bank Super 14 try. Fullback Julian Huxley added his second conversion from three attempts to complete the 46-point landslide.
The CA Brumbies will have a short turnaround in preparation for their match against the Hurricanes at Canberra Stadium on Friday, 16 April.
MATCH DETAILS
Brumbies 61 (Ben Alexander 2; Stephen Hoiles, Patrick Phibbs, Tyrone Smith, Rocky Elsom, Adam Ashley-Cooper, Matt Toomua, Alfie Mafi tries; Matt Giteau 6/6 conversions, Julian Huxley 2/3 conversions) defeated Cheetahs 15 (Sarel Pretorius, Adriaan Strauss tries; Naas Olivier 0/1 conversions, 1/1 penalty goals, Riaan Vijoen 1/1 conversion) at Canberra Stadium, Canberra .
Half time: Brumbies 21-3
Referee: Bryce Lawrence (NZ)
Crowd: 14,111
Brumbies
1. Ben Alexander
2. Stephen Moore
3. Salesi Ma’afu
4. Mitchell Chapman
5. Ben Hand
6. Rocky Elsom
7. Michael Hooper
8. Stephen Hoiles (c)
9. Patrick Phibbs
10. Matt Toomua
11. Adam Ashley-Cooper
12. Matt Giteau
13. Tyrone Smith
14. Pat McCabe
15. Julian Huxley
Reserves
16. Huia Edmonds
17. Guy Shepherdson
18. Mark Chisholm
19. Colby Faingaa
20. James Stannard
21. Ed Stubbs
22. Alfie Mafi
Replacements
18. Mark Chisholm for 4. Mitchell Chapman (14th minute)
16. Huia Edmonds for 2. Stephen Moore (50th minute)
20. James Stannard for 9. Patrick Phibbs (blood – 50th minute)
19. Colby Faingaa for 7. Michael Hooper (55th minute)
17. Guy Shepherdson for 3. Salesi Ma’afu (56th minute)
21. Ed Stubbs for 12. Matt Giteau (61st minute)
22. Alfie Mafi for 11. Adam Ashley-Cooper (62nd minute)
9. Patrick Phibbs for 20. James Stannard (blood return – 64th minute)
20. James Stannard for 10. Matt Toomua (72nd minute)
Cheetahs
1. Coenie Oosthuizen
2. Adriaan Strauss (c)
3. WP Nel
4. Izak van der Westhuizen
5. Waltie Vermeulen
6. Hendro Scholtz
7. Barend Pieterse
8. Kabamba Floors
9. Tewis de Bruyn
10. Naas Olivier
11. Jongi Nokwe
12. Meyer Bosman
13. Corne Uys
14. Wilmaure Louw
15. Hennie Daniller
Reserves
16. Ryno Barnes
17. Wian du Preez
18. Nico Breedt
19. Davon Raubenheimer
20. Sarel Pretorius
21. Robert Ebersohn
22. Riaan Viljoen
Replacements
Yellow Cards
7. Barend Pieterse (18th minute)
8. Kabamba Floors (77th minute)
NEXT GAME:
Investec Bank Super 14: Week 10
Brumbies v Hurricanes
Canberra Stadium, Canberra
Friday, 16 April 2010
‘
NEW SIGNING FOR BRUMBIES
The CA Brumbies have continued to bolster their back row ranks with Colby Faingaa signing with the CA Brumbies on a one-year rookie contract.
Faingaa, 18, made his Investec Bank Super 14 debut this season against the Chiefs, starting that match and the following one against the Cheetahs off the bench.
The younger brother of former CA Brumbies and current Reds twins, Saia and Anthony, represented the Australian Schools side in 2008, and was a consistent performer for the CA Brumbies on last year’s French Tour as well as playing a key role for the Tuggeranong Vikings in their 2009 Tooheys New John I Dent Cup premiership. He joined the Brumbies Academy in 2008 having been a long-term member of the Australian Rugby Union’s National Talent Squad.
The former St Edmund’s College student says signing with the CA Brumbies is the realisation of a lifelong rugby goal.
“It’s really nice to be able to stay at home at the Brumbies,” he said. “There was some interest from elsewhere but I really only wanted to stay at the Brumbies. The Brumbies program is known as the best in the world and I feel like everything’s starting to come together so I wanted to stay to keep developing my game.
“I’m really looking forward to completing this season well, getting a good pre-season under my belt and put myself in a position to push for selection week in, week out next year.
“It’s been great playing Super 14 rugby this year; it’s been something I’ve wanted to do since I was young and now that I’m there, I want to do everything I can to stay at this level.”
Head Coach Andy Friend says Faingaa represents the new generation of CA Brumbies.
“We’re very fortunate to have three quality young openside flankers in Julian Salvi, Michael Hooper and now Colby Faingaa in the squad next season,” he said.
“Colby’s been impressive in his two matches for us this year, which follows on from a very strong showing with the Brumby Runners. His Super 14 debut was fast-tracked by the injury to George Smith but it hasn’t fazed him in the slightest and he’s given us a noticeable impact off the bench.
“He’s a strong player with a very high work rate and he packs a lot of power into his defence. He comes from an impressive footballing family and he’s shown that he’s certainly capable of growing into an outstanding player at this level.”
Colby Faingaa
Position: Flanker
Physical: 1.83m, 95kg
Age: 31.03.1991, Queanbeyan
Investec Bank Super 14 Caps: 2
Investec Bank Super 14 Points: 0
Investec Bank Super 14 Debut: 2010 v Chiefs, Canberra
Faingaa, 18, made his Investec Bank Super 14 debut this season against the Chiefs, starting that match and the following one against the Cheetahs off the bench.
The younger brother of former CA Brumbies and current Reds twins, Saia and Anthony, represented the Australian Schools side in 2008, and was a consistent performer for the CA Brumbies on last year’s French Tour as well as playing a key role for the Tuggeranong Vikings in their 2009 Tooheys New John I Dent Cup premiership. He joined the Brumbies Academy in 2008 having been a long-term member of the Australian Rugby Union’s National Talent Squad.
The former St Edmund’s College student says signing with the CA Brumbies is the realisation of a lifelong rugby goal.
“It’s really nice to be able to stay at home at the Brumbies,” he said. “There was some interest from elsewhere but I really only wanted to stay at the Brumbies. The Brumbies program is known as the best in the world and I feel like everything’s starting to come together so I wanted to stay to keep developing my game.
“I’m really looking forward to completing this season well, getting a good pre-season under my belt and put myself in a position to push for selection week in, week out next year.
“It’s been great playing Super 14 rugby this year; it’s been something I’ve wanted to do since I was young and now that I’m there, I want to do everything I can to stay at this level.”
Head Coach Andy Friend says Faingaa represents the new generation of CA Brumbies.
“We’re very fortunate to have three quality young openside flankers in Julian Salvi, Michael Hooper and now Colby Faingaa in the squad next season,” he said.
“Colby’s been impressive in his two matches for us this year, which follows on from a very strong showing with the Brumby Runners. His Super 14 debut was fast-tracked by the injury to George Smith but it hasn’t fazed him in the slightest and he’s given us a noticeable impact off the bench.
“He’s a strong player with a very high work rate and he packs a lot of power into his defence. He comes from an impressive footballing family and he’s shown that he’s certainly capable of growing into an outstanding player at this level.”
Colby Faingaa
Position: Flanker
Physical: 1.83m, 95kg
Age: 31.03.1991, Queanbeyan
Investec Bank Super 14 Caps: 2
Investec Bank Super 14 Points: 0
Investec Bank Super 14 Debut: 2010 v Chiefs, Canberra
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