Te Aute College Take Home Unison Shield Two Years in a Row

Te Aute College Take Home Unison Shield Two Years in a Row

Monday 22 August 2016 - Te Aute College is now one win away from a hat trick victory after defeating Wairoa College for the second time in two yearson Saturday, in the Unison Secondary School Rugby Challenge Shield final.

Played as the curtain raiser to the Magpies versus Wellington home game, Te Aute College came away with a 39 - 26 win against Wairoa College.

Te Aute College 1st XV Coach, Harley Thomas said the win was well deserved by the team, especially given how young the side was.

“After a tight first half, the boys played out of their skin in the second half, demonstrating some really explosive rugby to get three more tries under their belts.

“With 16 of the 23 players set to return next year, this highlights just how young the team was this season, making the victory even more of a credit to them.”

Wairoa College, while disappointed with the result, certainly didn’t go down without a fight and gave it their all on the field.

“They were a really strong side, and a pleasure to play against,” he said.

The Challenge Shield is part of Unison’s sponsorship with the Hawke’s Bay Rugby Union, and an extension of its junior rugby programme.

In presenting the Shield on behalf of the Unison Group, Relationship Manager, Danny Gough, said Unison was proud to support the regions’ rising rugby stars.

“We get a real thrill out of supporting local rugby at this level, and I personally look forward to this match every year.

“Many of these players have come right through our junior rugby programme, and their passion for the game is evidently still strong. As long as this is the case they are leading active lifestyles, which is what we want to see in our communities.”

In addition to the Shield, Mr Gough presented each player of the winning team with a medal, as well as a sports voucher the College. Wairoa College also received a sports voucher.

-Ends-

© Scoop Media