8 May, 2007

New focus for Defence Force rugby: Pacific Military Cup selection.

Selection for the Pacific Military Cup will be a special incentive for sailors, soldiers and air men competing in the annual inter-Services Rugby tournament in Auckland next week.

The New Zealand Defence Force is to host the Pacific Military Cup in Wellington in 2008 and the national team selected from the Auckland tournament will form the squad to train for the cup tournament.

The resurgence of Defence Force rugby has provided a number of top players, including Hurricane and Manawatu player Hayden Triggs and Manawatu and NZ Divisional team representative, Charlie Beetham.

NZ Defence Force coach, Warrant Officer Tony Katting, a former New Zealand Combined Services and Canterbury B player who has just been re- appointed through to 2008, says there is a real depth of talent within Defence Force Rugby.

“Rugby is a reflection of the ethos and values of military service. The dedication and commitment of our players is testimony to the qualities in our Service people.”

The Defence Force has also named an assistant coach, Flight Sergeant Daz Horsley, who is currently coaching the Manawatu Under-23 side.

The Defence Force team will be named when the tournament concludes on Thursday. The squad is likely to include players at the NPC level and selection for the Pacific Military Cup team will depend on their availability in 2008.

The Pacific tournament is held every two years and was last hosted by Australia.

ENDS

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