CHB College Retain Unison Challenge Shield

CHB College Retain Unison Challenge Shield

Monday, 9 September 2013 – Central Hawke’s Bay (CHB) College and their supporters were the only locals celebrating a shield win on Saturday, after winning the Unison 1st XV Challenge final against Te Aute College.

Played as the curtain raiser to the Magpies’ Ranfurly Shield defence at McLean Park, CHB College came out on top in a closely fought game, with the score 21 – 18 to the defending champions at full time.

Te Aute College Assistant Principal Robin Fabish said even though the final result didn’t go in their favour, it was a good game and a step in the right direction toward a renaissance of success for Te Aute College rugby and students.

“It was an honour for us to be playing the curtain-raiser to the first Ranfurly Shield defence in 44 years. We knew we were part of an historical day, and the boys were thrilled to be playing the biggest game in their careers to date.

“While we were disappointed with the final score, our boys did everything they could to win, and we can’t ask for more than that. It was a game played in a great spirit, and the respect between the two teams was evident on the field and after the game.”

In presenting the Unison 1st VX Challenge Shield on behalf of the Unison Group, Charles Kaka (Unison Contracting Services CEO) said Unison was proud to sponsor secondary school rugby.

“It is really pleasing for us to be able to support the Hawke’s Bay Rugby Union to develop a pathway from junior to senior rugby. Being able to offer solid competition rugby at grass roots level will help these players on their pathway to a career in rugby. It’s easy to see from the passion these teams played with that today has been a real highlight for them, and we’re proud to be part of it.”

In addition to the presentation of the Unison Challenge Shield, Mr Kaka also presented each player with a medal, with CHB College also receiving a voucher for $1000 of R80 sports equipment, while Te Aute College received a $500 R80 voucher.

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