2002 New Zealand rugby league season
Encyclopedia
The 2002 New Zealand rugby league season was the ninety fifth season of rugby league
that had been played in New Zealand
. The main feature of the year was the third season of the Bartercard Cup
competition that was run by the New Zealand Rugby League
. The Mt Albert Lions
won the Cup by defeating the Hibiscus Coast Raiders
24-20 in the Grand Final.
in October and lost 24-32 before embarking on a five match tour of Great Britain and France
. Coached by Gary Freeman the squad included: Monty Betham
, Jason Cayless
, Henry Fa'afili
, Awen Guttenbeil
, Lance Hohaia
, Sean Hoppe
, captain Stacey Jones
, Stephen Kearney
, Ali Lauitiiti
, Andrew Lomu
, Francis Meli
, Robbie Paul
, Tony Puletua
, Paul Rauhihi
, Jerry Seuseu, Michael Smith, David Solomona
, Richard Swain
, Logan Swann
, Motu Tony
, Clinton Toopi
, Matt Utai
, David Vaealiki
, Nigel Vagana
and Ruben Wiki
.
The New Zealand Māori rugby league team
hosted Tonga
at Rotorua International Stadium
on 5 October, defeating them 50-6. The team was coached by Bernie Perenara and included Chris Nahi
, Aaron Heremaia
and Jamie Cook. The Tongan side had earlier defeated Auckland Māori 36-24 and the Waicoa Bay Stallions
38-30. The Waicoa Bay side was coached by Tawera Nikau
and included Andrew Leota
.
New Zealand A toured France and the United States. They won matches against France A, France Juniors and the United States
but lost 16-19 to France
. The team was coached by Gary Kemble
with Aaron Whittaker
serving as trainer. The squad was Gavin Bailey, Wayne Barnett, Steve Buckingham
, George Carmont
, David Fa'alogo
, Chris Faifua, Lee Finnerty
, Daniel Floyd, Karl Guttenbeil, Eddie Hei Hei, Ricky Henry, Archie Ikihele, Tevita Latu
, Phillip Leuluai
, Jonny Limmer, captain Ben Lythe
, Hutch Maiava
, Fuifui Moimoi
, Tyrone Pau
, George Tuakura
and Regan Wigg.
Twenty six games were played between various New Zealand youth teams and equivalent Australian teams, with New Zealand winning twenty of them. Richard Bolton
was the National Development Manager. Notable matches included the under-18 Junior Kiwis
defeating the West Tigers elite training squad 34-26 and the Australian Institute of Sport
side 58-10. The Junior Kiwis were coached by James Leuluai
, managed by Kevin Fisher
and included Vince Mellars
, Karl Johnson
, Zebastian Lucky Luisi
, Toshio Laiseni
, Danny Bernard, Jerome Ropati
, Thomas Leuluai
, Evarn Tuimavave
, Epalahame Lauaki
, Kane Ferris
, Roger Eliu, Louie Anderson
, William Raston, Jason McDougall, Herewini Rangi
, Andrew Auimatagi, Manu Vatuvei
, Shaun Metcalf, Izraal Lo-Tam and Aoterangi Herangi. Shaun Metcalf, Iosia Soliola
, Rangi Chase
, Samuela Moa
, Frank Paul Nuuausala, Eliakim Uasi, Adam Blair
and William Heta were included in the under-16 New Zealand side.
on 8 September. Otago then defeated Canterbury "A" 52-34 and Southland
20-16.
competition run by the New Zealand Rugby League
. After the Ngongotaha Chiefs
had withdrawn from the competition halfway through 2001 the New Zealand Rugby League had to consider the future of franchises. As part of this reorganisation the two Wellington teams, the Porirua Pumas
and the Wainuiomata Lions
both withdrew and were replaced by a combined Wellington Franchise
. The Central Falcons
, from Manawatu, and Taranaki Wildcats both joined the competition. 2002 saw the Mt Albert Lions
win their first championship after an all Auckland final series.
Around 5000 watched the match, the last played at Carlaw Park
. Sala Fa'alogo was the man of the match.
, Taranaki
, Waikato, Manawatu, Bay of Plenty and Wellington competed in the North Island Super 6. Wellington and Manawatu did not select players from the Wellington Franchise
or Central Falcons
respectively.
Waikato defeated minor premiers Wellington 46-30 at the Grand Final, held in Wellington.
Waikato were coached by Tawera Nikau
and included Herewini Rangi
. Manawatu included Rangi Chase
and Weller Hauraki
. Taranaki were coached by Howie Tamati
.
, Southland
, Tasman
and the West Coast
competed in the South Island Provincial Championship.
Otago won the title, defeating Canterbury A 23-22 in the Grand Final.
Phil Bergman
played for Tasman.
The Thacker Shield
was contested as part of the Mainland Super 10, with the holder defending it at every home game. In 2003 the Thacker Shield returned to its original once a year inter-district challenge format.
Super 10 Dreamteam; Fa'atali Sa (Papanui), Charlie Herekotukutuku
(Kaiapoi), Clinton Fraser (Sydenham), Hamish Barclay (Riccarton), Sam Lemalie (Linwood), Josh Reuben (Kaiapoi), Aaron Whittaker
(Riccarton), Leon Hallie (Otago), Andrew Auimatagi (Linwood), Mathias Pitama (Kaiapoi), Andrew Tallott (Hornby), Goerge Taunga (Southland) and Corey Lawrie
(Hornby). Coach: Brent Ringdahl (Riccarton).
, who included Jerome Ropati
, Epalahame Lauaki
, Marcus Perenara
and Evarn Tuimavave
, defeated Counties-Manukau 42-22 in the final. Counties-Manukau included Toshio Laiseni
.
The Foundation Cup was the National Junior Competition for under-16s. The invited teams were Counties-Manukau, Wellington, Akarana, Canterbury, Waikato and Northland. Counties-Manukau, who included Kim Uasi
and Willie Heta, defeated Wellington 28-6.
competed in the National Rugby League
competition. They finished as minor premiers and went on to make the Grand Final before losing to the Sydney Roosters
30-8.
St. Paul's College
participated in the Australian Schoolboys Nutri-Grain Cup and made the quarter finals, defeating Erindale College 30-10 and St Dominics College
13-12, before being eliminated 10-6 by Patrician Brothers' College. St Paul's had won a National Schools competition to qualify for the Nutri-Grain Cup, defeating Kelston Boys' High School
20-12 in the Semifinal and Aranui High School
16-6 in the Grandfinal.
won the Fox Memorial trophy, defeating Otahuhu 44-40 in double extra time. The Papakura Sea Eagles
won the Rukutai Shield (minor premiership). Earlier in the season the Hibiscus Coast Raiders had won the Roope Rooster cup, defeating Marist
64-4 in the final. Ellerslie won the Sharman Cup while the Mount Wellington Warriors won the Phelan Shield.
The Hibiscus Coast's Willie Bishop
won the Best and Fairest award and the Bert Humphries Memorial Trophy as best back in the competition. Junior Asiata from Otahuhu won the Bert Humphries Memorial Trophy as best forward while Papakura's Stuart Heslop won the Most Improved award. Asiata also won the Rothville Trophy as player of the year while Bishop was awarded the Lance Painter Rosebowl as top goal kicker. Otahuhu's Shane Dance won the Lipscombe Cup as Sportsman of the Year.
Papakura were coached by Kelly Shelford
while Mount Albert included Carl Doherty
and Manukau included Ben Vaeau
.
title, defeating the Wainuiomata Lions
in the grand final.
title, defeating Linwood 54-14 in the grand final.
Aaron Whittaker
and Logan Edwards
played for Riccarton. Kane Ferris
played for Linwood.
met in the inaugural Waicoa Bay grand final with Taniwharau winning 28-26. Turangawaewae won the Waikato Rugby League
Premiership. The Ngongotaha Chiefs
defeated Pikiao to win the Bay of Plenty Rugby League
competition. Te Paamu, who included Andrew Leota
, defeated Kawerau 46-22 in the Coastline final.
The Waitara Bears defeated Marist 26-12 in the Taranaki Rugby League
grand final. Linton, who included Jesse Royal
, defeated Levin 48-26 in the Manawatu Rugby League
grand final.
Blenheim Central defeated Nelson 32-12 in the Tasman grand final while Suburbs won the West Coast Rugby League title by defeating Cobden-Kohinoor 28-20.
Rugby league
Rugby league football, usually called rugby league, is a full contact sport played by two teams of thirteen players on a rectangular grass field. One of the two codes of rugby football, it originated in England in 1895 by a split from Rugby Football Union over paying players...
that had been played in New Zealand
New Zealand
New Zealand is an island country in the south-western Pacific Ocean comprising two main landmasses and numerous smaller islands. The country is situated some east of Australia across the Tasman Sea, and roughly south of the Pacific island nations of New Caledonia, Fiji, and Tonga...
. The main feature of the year was the third season of the Bartercard Cup
Bartercard Cup
The Bartercard Cup was the top level rugby league club competition in New Zealand from 2000 until 2007. For the entire life of the tournament it was sponsored by Bartercard. The cup was administered by the New Zealand Rugby League...
competition that was run by the New Zealand Rugby League
New Zealand Rugby League
The New Zealand Rugby League is the governing body for the sport of rugby league football in New Zealand. The NZRL was founded on the 25 April 1910 in preparation for a tour of Great Britain that same year....
. The Mt Albert Lions
Mt Albert Lions
The Mount Albert Lions are a rugby league club based in Mount Albert, New Zealand. The Lions home ground is at Fowlds Park. Their patron is the former Prime Minister of New Zealand, Helen Clark. In 2008 and 2009 the Lions won the Fox Memorial....
won the Cup by defeating the Hibiscus Coast Raiders
Hibiscus Coast Raiders
The Hibiscus Coast Raiders are a rugby league club based on the Hibiscus Coast, New Zealand. They compete in Auckland Rugby League's Fox Memorial competition and between 2000 and 2005 were also involved in the Bartercard Cup competition.-History:...
24-20 in the Grand Final.
International competitions
The New Zealand Kiwis played Australia at Wellington's Westpac StadiumWestpac Stadium
Westpac Stadium, is a major sporting venue in Wellington, New Zealand. Due to its shape and silver coloured external walls, it is colloquially known as The Cake-Tin to the locals and other New Zealanders...
in October and lost 24-32 before embarking on a five match tour of Great Britain and France
2002 New Zealand rugby league tour of Great Britain and France
The 2002 New Zealand rugby league tour of Great Britain and France was a tour by the New Zealand national rugby league team. The New Zealand Kiwis drew the series 1-all against Great Britain and also defeated Wales and France.-Background:...
. Coached by Gary Freeman the squad included: Monty Betham
Monty Betham
Monty Betham is a professional boxer and former rugby league footballer and junior world karate champion...
, Jason Cayless
Jason Cayless
Jason Paul Cayless is a former professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s. A New Zealand international representative prop forward, he is the younger brother of Parramatta Eels great, Nathan Cayless. He played his club football for the Sydney Roosters, with whom he won the 2002...
, Henry Fa'afili
Henry Fa'afili
Henry Fa'afili is a Samoan rugby player. He originally played Rugby league but switched codes in 2007 to play rugby union for Biarritz Olympique. He is currently signed to Connacht Rugby in the Celtic League after departing Leeds Carnegie in June 2011. Fa'afili's position of choice is on the Wing...
, Awen Guttenbeil
Awen Guttenbeil
Awen Guttenbeil is a New Zealand former rugby league footballer. Since retiring after a playing career spanning fifteen years, he now works as a broadcaster for Sky Network Television and as a presenter on Maori TV sports show, Hyundai Code...
, Lance Hohaia
Lance Hohaia
Lance Hohaia is a New Zealand rugby league player, he currently plays for St Helens RLFC. In 2008 Hohaia was a member of the World Cup winning New Zealand team.-Early years:...
, Sean Hoppe
Sean Hoppe
Sean Edward Hoppe is a New Zealand former professional rugby league footballer who represented his country.-Early years:...
, captain Stacey Jones
Stacey Jones
Stacey William Jones, ONZM is a professional rugby league footballer, who has been named amongst the greatest New Zealand has ever produced. He currently plays for the Point Chevalier Pirates in the Auckland Rugby League's Phelan Shield...
, Stephen Kearney
Stephen Kearney
Stephen Peter Kearney, ONZM is a professional rugby league football coach and former player. He is the current head coach of the Parramatta Eels in the NRL as well as the New Zealand national team...
, Ali Lauitiiti
Ali Lauitiiti
Ali Lauitiiti is a New Zealand professional rugby league footballer for English club Leeds Rhinos in the European Super League. Both a Samoa and New Zealand international representative forward, he previously played in the National Rugby League for the Warriors...
, Andrew Lomu
Andrew Lomu
Andrew Lomu is an Australian professional rugby league footballer. He previously played for the Sydney Roosters, Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks, Canberra Raiders and for the Brisbane Broncos in the National Rugby League competition...
, Francis Meli
Francis Meli
Francis Meli is a professional rugby league player who currently plays for St. Helens in the Super League competition. Meli has represented both New Zealand and Samoa in internationals. His usual position is on the wing....
, Robbie Paul
Robbie Paul
Robert Rawiri 'Robbie' Hunter-Paul is a New Zealand rugby league player. He currently plays for Leigh Centurions in England. He played for the New Zealand national team 27 times. He is the younger brother of Leeds Carnegie player Henry Paul.-Early years:Born in Tokoroa, New Zealand, his junior...
, Tony Puletua
Tony Puletua
Anthony Puletua is a New Zealand professional rugby league footballer for St. Helens in the European Super League. A New Zealand and Samoan international, Puletua previously played for the Penrith Panthers in the National Rugby League competition...
, Paul Rauhihi
Paul Rauhihi
Paul Rauhihi is a retired professional rugby league footballer who represented his country. Rauhihi played in both the National Rugby League and Super League at prop forward.-New Zealand Career:...
, Jerry Seuseu, Michael Smith, David Solomona
David Solomona
David Joseph Solomona is a professional rugby league footballer for the Warrington Wolves of Europe's Super League. He is regularly amongst the top off-loaders in the competition. Solomona also attended St...
, Richard Swain
Richard Swain
Richard Swain is a retired professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s. A New Zealand international representative Hooker, he played club football in Australia for the Hunter Mariners, Melbourne Storm and Brisbane Broncos and in England for Hull.-Early years:Swain went to Farrer...
, Logan Swann
Logan Swann
Logan Swann is a former professional rugby league footballer who represented his country. Swann is related to several other rugby league players, notably cousins Willie and Anthony.-Early years:...
, Motu Tony
Motu Tony
Iosefo Motu Tony is a Samoan-New Zealand professional rugby league footballer who currently plays for Wakefield Trinity Wildcats and previously played for Hull and Whitehaven...
, Clinton Toopi
Clinton Toopi
Clinton Toopi is a professional rugby footballer who is currently playing for the Gold Coast Titans of the National Rugby League. His usual position is centre.-Playing career:...
, Matt Utai
Matt Utai
Matthew Utai is a New Zealand rugby league footballer who currently plays for the Wests Tigers in the NRL and has previously represented both New Zealand and Samoa. His usual position is on the wing.-Playing career:...
, David Vaealiki
David Vaealiki
David Ioane Vaealiki is a rugby union player currently playing for SC Albi. He has represented New Zealand in rugby league and previously played in the National Rugby League in Australia and in Super League in England...
, Nigel Vagana
Nigel Vagana
Nigel Vagana is a retired professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s. A New Zealand and Samoa international representative centre, he retired as the Kiwis' all-time top try-scorer with 19...
and Ruben Wiki
Ruben Wiki
Ruben Wiki, ONZM is a former professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s. A New Zealand international representative centre-turned-prop forward, he retired with the record for most number of international appearances of any rugby league player in history...
.
The New Zealand Māori rugby league team
New Zealand Maori rugby league team
-See also:* New Zealand national rugby league team* New Zealand Māori rugby union team* New Zealand Māori cricket team-External links:* Google Books...
hosted Tonga
Tonga national rugby league team
The Tonga national rugby league team is a national sporting side, representing Tonga in rugby league football. Rugby league is a popular sport in Tonga, and the national team has become one of the best performed nations in the world...
at Rotorua International Stadium
Rotorua International Stadium
Rotorua International Stadium is a multi-purpose stadium located on Devon Street West in Westbrook suburb of Rotorua, New Zealand. It is currently used mostly for rugby union and rugby league matches, being one of two home stadiums for the Bay of Plenty Rugby Union...
on 5 October, defeating them 50-6. The team was coached by Bernie Perenara and included Chris Nahi
Chris Nahi
Christopher Nahi is a former professional rugby league footballer. He has played representative rugby league for both the New Zealand Māori team and a Rest of the World side.-Playing career:...
, Aaron Heremaia
Aaron Heremaia
Aaron Aspin Heremaia is a New Zealand rugby league player who currently plays for the New Zealand Warriors in the National Rugby League...
and Jamie Cook. The Tongan side had earlier defeated Auckland Māori 36-24 and the Waicoa Bay Stallions
Waicoa Bay Stallions
The Waicoa Bay Stallions are a rugby league team that represent the Upper Central Zone in the Albert Baskerville Trophy. This is a vast area that includes Hamilton, Rotorua and Taupo...
38-30. The Waicoa Bay side was coached by Tawera Nikau
Tawera Nikau
Tawera Nuieia Nikau is a former professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s. A New Zealand international representative forward, he played club football at a number of different clubs in New Zealand, England and Australia during his career, including the Melbourne Storm's victory...
and included Andrew Leota
Andrew Leota
Andrew Leota is a Tongan rugby footballer who represented his country in rugby league at the 2000 World Cup.-Playing career:Leota originally played rugby league, being named in the Tonga squad for the 2000 World Cup and representing Coastline between 1997 and 2001...
.
New Zealand A toured France and the United States. They won matches against France A, France Juniors and the United States
United States national rugby league team
-2008 & 2013 Rugby League World Cup Qualifying:In October 2006, The Tomahawks were to participate in a four team Atlantic qualifying pool for the 2008 Rugby League World Cup, but South Africa and the West Indies withdrew. As a result, The Atlantic qualifying pool was reduced to a single game...
but lost 16-19 to France
France national rugby league team
The France national rugby league team represent France in international rugby league tournaments. They are also sometimes referred to as "Les Tricolores" or more commonly "Les Chanticleers"...
. The team was coached by Gary Kemble
Gary Kemble
Gary Edward Kemble is a New Zealand rugby league coach and former player. He has both played and coached the New Zealand Kiwis. He is the current head coach of the Papakura Sea Eagles in the Auckland Rugby League.-Playing career:...
with Aaron Whittaker
Aaron Whittaker
Aaron Whittaker is a former professional rugby league footballer. A New Zealand international representative halfback, he played club football in Australia, England and New Zealand.-Early years:...
serving as trainer. The squad was Gavin Bailey, Wayne Barnett, Steve Buckingham
Steve Buckingham (rugby league)
Steve Buckingham is a New Zealand rugby league coach and player. His position of preference is at Halfback. He is currently the head coach of the Mount Albert Lions.-Early years:...
, George Carmont
George Carmont
George Carmont is a professional rugby league footballer for the Wigan Warriors of the Super League competition...
, David Fa'alogo
David Fa'alogo
David Fa'alogo is a professional rugby league footballer with the Huddersfield Giants of Super League, formerly contracted with the South Sydney Rabbitohs of the National Rugby League...
, Chris Faifua, Lee Finnerty
Lee Finnerty
Lee Finnerty is a New Zealand former rugby league footballer who played professionally for the Halifax Blue Sox.-Playing career:Finnerty joined the Marist Richmond Brothers in 2000 with the launch of the Bartercard Cup....
, Daniel Floyd, Karl Guttenbeil, Eddie Hei Hei, Ricky Henry, Archie Ikihele, Tevita Latu
Tevita Latu
Tevita Leo-Latu is a professional rugby league footballer for the Central Queensland Comets of the Queensland Cup. He previously played for the New Zealand Warriors and Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks in the National Rugby League...
, Phillip Leuluai
Phillip Leuluai
Phillip Leuluai is a New Zealand rugby league player of Samoan heritage and descent who currently plays for the Salford City Reds in the Super League competition...
, Jonny Limmer, captain Ben Lythe
Ben Lythe
Ben Lythe is a former professional rugby league player. His position of preference was at Halfback. He was also a noted goalkicker.-Early years:...
, Hutch Maiava
Hutch Maiava
Hutch Maiava, born 26 October 1976 in Auckland, New Zealand is a Samoan rugby league player for the Penrith Panthers in the NRL. Maiva's position of choice is at .-Playing career:...
, Fuifui Moimoi
Fuifui Moimoi
Fuifui Moana Moimoi is a New Zealand-Tongan professional rugby league footballer for the Parramatta Eels in the National Rugby League competition.-Playing career:...
, Tyrone Pau
Tyrone Pau
Tyrone Pau is a Cook Islander former professional rugby league footballer who at representative level has played for Cook Islands, playing at , or .-Playing career:...
, George Tuakura
George Tuakura
George Tuakura is a Cook Islands rugby league player who currently plays for the Central Comets in the Queensland Cup...
and Regan Wigg.
Twenty six games were played between various New Zealand youth teams and equivalent Australian teams, with New Zealand winning twenty of them. Richard Bolton
Richard Bolton (rugby league)
Richard Keith Bolton is a New Zealand former rugby league player, manager and coach who represented his country.-Playing career:Bolton was an Auckland representative and played in one Test match for the New Zealand Kiwis, the second Test against Australia in 1972...
was the National Development Manager. Notable matches included the under-18 Junior Kiwis
Junior Kiwis
The Junior Kiwis side represents New Zealand in the sport of rugby league. They are commonly known as the Junior Kiwis, after the native bird of that name. They are not necessarily an age grade side, but the second national team behind the New Zealand national rugby league team. They are...
defeating the West Tigers elite training squad 34-26 and the Australian Institute of Sport
Australian Institute of Sport
The Australian Institute of Sport is a sports training institution in Australia with world class facilities and support services. The Institute's headquarters is situated in Canberra, the capital city of Australia. The 66.0 hectare site campus is in the northern suburb of Bruce, but some of the...
side 58-10. The Junior Kiwis were coached by James Leuluai
James Leuluai
A'au James Leuluai is a New Zealand former international rugby league player. His favoured position was centre. He is the father of Wigan Warriors and New Zealand international Thomas Leuluai. He is also the uncle of Leeds Rhinos prop Kylie Leuluai....
, managed by Kevin Fisher
Kevin Fisher (rugby league)
Kevin Lawrence Fisher is a New Zealand former rugby league player, coach and manager who represented his country in the 1977 World Cup.-Playing career:A Huntly South player in the Waikato Rugby League, Fisher was also a Waikato representative....
and included Vince Mellars
Vince Mellars
Vincent Mellars is a New Zealand Rugby League player who currently plays for the Crusaders in the European Super League. He has previously played in the National Rugby League and Air New Zealand Cup. His position is in the Centres...
, Karl Johnson
Karl Johnson (rugby league)
Karl Johnson , is a rugby league player who currently plays for the Gladstone Past Brothers. He plays as a centre or second-row forward. He is a New Zealand Māori international.-Playing career:...
, Zebastian Lucky Luisi
Zebastian Lucky Luisi
Zebastian Lucky Luisi, born 22 December 1984 in Auckland, New Zealand, is an New Zealand rugby league player.Lucky Luisi played for Doncaster in National League Two having signed in February 2008 from Harlequins RL.At the start of the 2009 Season he joined championship club Barrow RaidersLuisi's...
, Toshio Laiseni
Toshio Laiseni
Toshio Laiseni is a Tongan rugby league footballer. His position of choice is either at fullback or on the wing.-Early career:...
, Danny Bernard, Jerome Ropati
Jerome Ropati
Jerome Ropati is a professional rugby league footballer for the New Zealand Warriors of the National Rugby League. Ropati was a member of the World Cup-winning New Zealand team in 2008...
, Thomas Leuluai
Thomas Leuluai
Thomas Leuluai is a New Zealand professional rugby league footballer who currently plays for the Wigan Warriors in the Super League. His position is at half-back...
, Evarn Tuimavave
Evarn Tuimavave
Evarn Tuimavave is a professional rugby league footballer who currently plays for the Newcastle Knights of the National Rugby League. He has also represented the New Zealand Kiwis and was part of the 2008 World Cup-winning squad...
, Epalahame Lauaki
Epalahame Lauaki
Epalahame Lauaki is a professional rugby league footballer formerly contracted to English club Hull in the Super League. He is brother of All Black Sione Lauaki...
, Kane Ferris
Kane Ferris
Kane Ferris is a New Zealand rugby league player who previously played in the National Rugby League. His position of preference is Prop.-Playing career:A long time representative of Canterbury age groups, he made the Junior Kiwis in 2002...
, Roger Eliu, Louie Anderson
Louie Anderson
Louie Perry Anderson is an American stand-up comedian. Anderson created the cartoon series Life with Louie, has written three books, and was the initial host of the second revival of the game show Family Feud, from 1999 to 2002....
, William Raston, Jason McDougall, Herewini Rangi
Herewini Rangi
Herewini Rangi is a New Zealand rugby league coach and former player who played one match in the National Rugby League. He was a hooker/back rower who could also kick goals.-Early years:...
, Andrew Auimatagi, Manu Vatuvei
Manu Vatuvei
Manu Vatuvei is a New Zealand rugby league player for the New Zealand Warriors in the National Rugby League competition. His position of choice is on the wing. He is the cousin of Japanese Rugby Union player Ruatangi Vatuvei. Vatuvei was a member of the New Zealand Kiwis squad that won the 2008...
, Shaun Metcalf, Izraal Lo-Tam and Aoterangi Herangi. Shaun Metcalf, Iosia Soliola
Iosia Soliola
Iosia Soliola is a New Zealand international rugby league player currently playing for the St. Helens in the Super League. He is of Samoan descent.-Playing career:...
, Rangi Chase
Rangi Chase
Rangi Chase is a professional rugby league footballer who currently plays in the Super League competition for the Castleford Tigers. He attended famous Maori school Te Aute College in 1999 before moving to Australia where he attended Keebra Park State High School...
, Samuela Moa
Samuela Moa
Samuela "Sam" Moa born June 14, 1986. Full Tongan. He is a professional rugby league player who has represented his country and currently plays his club football for Hull F.C. in the Super League competition...
, Frank Paul Nuuausala, Eliakim Uasi, Adam Blair
Adam Blair
Adam Blair is a New Zealand professional rugby league footballer currently contracted to the Melbourne Storm of the National Rugby League until 1 November 2011, when he will join the Wests Tigers. A New Zealand international representative forward, Blair spent six seasons with the Storm, winning...
and William Heta were included in the under-16 New Zealand side.
Rugby League Cup
Otago defeated Tasman 42-28 to win the Rugby League CupRugby League Cup
The Rugby League Cup is a New Zealand rugby league trophy that is currently contested between districts on a challenge basis. The trophy was originally known as the Northern Union Cup...
on 8 September. Otago then defeated Canterbury "A" 52-34 and Southland
Southland rugby league team
The Southland rugby league team are New Zealand rugby league team that represents the Southland Rugby League. In the past they have been nicknamed the Rams.-History:...
20-16.
Bartercard Cup
The 2002 Bartercard Cup was the third season of the Bartercard CupBartercard Cup
The Bartercard Cup was the top level rugby league club competition in New Zealand from 2000 until 2007. For the entire life of the tournament it was sponsored by Bartercard. The cup was administered by the New Zealand Rugby League...
competition run by the New Zealand Rugby League
New Zealand Rugby League
The New Zealand Rugby League is the governing body for the sport of rugby league football in New Zealand. The NZRL was founded on the 25 April 1910 in preparation for a tour of Great Britain that same year....
. After the Ngongotaha Chiefs
Ngongotaha Chiefs
The Ngongotaha Chiefs are a New Zealand rugby league club. They are from Ngongotaha in the Bay of Plenty. In 2000 and 2001 they competed in the Bartercard Cup but now they compete in the Bay of Plenty Rugby League competition.-Notable players:...
had withdrawn from the competition halfway through 2001 the New Zealand Rugby League had to consider the future of franchises. As part of this reorganisation the two Wellington teams, the Porirua Pumas
Porirua Pumas
The Porirua Pumas were a team representing the Porirua region in New Zealand's Bartercard Cup Rugby league competition. The Pumas were one of two Wellington-based teams in the competition, the other being the Wainuiomata Lions. They were replaced in 2002 by the Wellington Orcas...
and the Wainuiomata Lions
Wainuiomata Lions
The Wainuiomata Lions are a New Zealand rugby league club based in Wainuiomata, Wellington. They compete in the Wellington Rugby League competition.-Noted Players:...
both withdrew and were replaced by a combined Wellington Franchise
Wellington Orcas
The Wellington rugby league team are a rugby league team that represents the Wellington Rugby League in New Zealand Rugby League competitions. They currently compete in the National Zonal Competition as the Wellington Orcas.-Early years:...
. The Central Falcons
Central Falcons
The Manawatu rugby league team are a rugby league team that represents the Manawatu Rugby League in New Zealand Rugby League competitions. They have previously been nicknamed the Mustangs and between 2002 and 2007 competed in the Bartercard Cup as the Central Falcons.Manawatu has a strong domestic...
, from Manawatu, and Taranaki Wildcats both joined the competition. 2002 saw the Mt Albert Lions
Mt Albert Lions
The Mount Albert Lions are a rugby league club based in Mount Albert, New Zealand. The Lions home ground is at Fowlds Park. Their patron is the former Prime Minister of New Zealand, Helen Clark. In 2008 and 2009 the Lions won the Fox Memorial....
win their first championship after an all Auckland final series.
The Teams
- Hibiscus Coast were coached by Tony BensonTony BensonTony Benson is a rugby league coach from New Zealand. Since the 2008-2009 season he has been the head coach of Oldham Roughyeds in the British Rugby League National Championship 1.-New Zealand:...
and included Aaron HeremaiaAaron HeremaiaAaron Aspin Heremaia is a New Zealand rugby league player who currently plays for the New Zealand Warriors in the National Rugby League...
, Vinny DunnVinny DunnVincent "Vinny" Dunn is a New Zealand professional wrestler and former rugby league player who has competed in several Australasian independent wrestling promotions since his debut in 2005. He has worked for the Australasian Wrestling Federation, Kiwi Pro Wrestling and is currently signed to Impact...
, Daniel Floyd, Iafeta PaleaaesinaIafeta PaleaaesinaIafeta Iakopo Palea'aesina , is a rugby league footballer of Samoan heritage) currently playing for the Salford City Reds of Super League...
, Tyrone PauTyrone PauTyrone Pau is a Cook Islander former professional rugby league footballer who at representative level has played for Cook Islands, playing at , or .-Playing career:...
, captain Anthony Seuseu, Jeremy Smith, Shannon StowersShannon StowersShannon Stowers is a New Zealand rugby league player for the Auckland Lions in the NSWRL Premier League competition. His position of choice is Prop.-Playing career:Stowers played for the Hibiscus Coast Raiders in the 2002 Bartercard Cup....
, Karl Te Mata and Regan Wigg. - Northcote were coached by Geoff Morton and included Karl JohnsonKarl Johnson (rugby league)Karl Johnson , is a rugby league player who currently plays for the Gladstone Past Brothers. He plays as a centre or second-row forward. He is a New Zealand Māori international.-Playing career:...
, captain Ken McIntoshKen McIntoshKenneth McIntosh is a New Zealand rugby league coach and former player who currently coaches the Northcote Tigers and Auckland. He played professionally with the Penrith Panthers.-Playing career:...
, Matthew SpenceMatthew SpenceMatthew Spence is a former rugby league player and coach. His position of preference was in the Second Row, although he also played as prop occasionally.-Early years:...
, Jared and Damon Trott and Brent WebbBrent WebbBrent Webb is an Australian-born New Zealand rugby league footballer who currently plays for the Leeds in the Super League. Webb plays as a full-back and is a former New Zealand international.-Early years:...
. - Glenora were coached by Dean Hunter and included captain Gavin Bailey, Karl Edmonson, Sione FaumuinaSione FaumuinaSione Faumuina is a New Zealand rugby league player who currently plays for the Redcliffe Dolphins.He joined the Castleford Tigers in the European Super League at the start of the 2009 season....
, Fuifui MoimoiFuifui MoimoiFuifui Moana Moimoi is a New Zealand-Tongan professional rugby league footballer for the Parramatta Eels in the National Rugby League competition.-Playing career:...
and Lee Tamatoa. - Marist-Richmond were coached by Bernie Perenara and included Jamie CookJamie CookthcoteJamie Cookthcote is a former professional rugby league footballer who played at the 2000 World Cup with the Aotearoa Māori side. His position of preference was at -Playing career:...
, Karl Guttenbeil, Ricky Henry, Tevita Latu, Marcus PerenaraMarcus PerenaraMarcus Perenara is a New Zealand rugby league player who played professionally for the Parramatta Eels.He is the brother of Henry Perenara.-Playing career:...
, Jerome RopatiJerome RopatiJerome Ropati is a professional rugby league footballer for the New Zealand Warriors of the National Rugby League. Ropati was a member of the World Cup-winning New Zealand team in 2008...
, Evarn TuimavaveEvarn TuimavaveEvarn Tuimavave is a professional rugby league footballer who currently plays for the Newcastle Knights of the National Rugby League. He has also represented the New Zealand Kiwis and was part of the 2008 World Cup-winning squad...
, Matthew TuisamoaMatthew TuisamoaMatthew Tuisamoa is a New Zealand former rugby league player who represented Western Samoa.-Playing career:Tuisamoa played for Auckland in 1991 and 1992. In 1994 he played for the Counties Manukau in the Lion Red Cup and was selected for Western Samoa when they conducted a tour of New Zealand...
and Daniel VasauDaniel VasauDaniel Vasau is a Tongan rugby league player who represented his country in the 2000 World Cup.-Playing career:Vasau was a Richmond Bulldogs junior and won the Auckland Rugby League's best and fairest award in 2000. He was then included in the Tongan side for the 2000 World Cup...
. - Mt Albert, in their 75th season, were coached by John Ackland and included Vinnie AndersonVinnie AndersonVinnie Anderson is a professional rugby league footballer for the Salford City Reds of Europe's Super League competition. A New Zealand international representative loose-forward or stand-off, he previously played for St. Helens, the Warrington Wolves and NRL side, the New Zealand Warriors...
, Keneti Asiata, Andreas BauerAndreas Bauer (rugby league)Andreas Bauer is a rugby league player who plays for Whitehaven RLFC. Standing 180 cm and weighing 92 kg, he plays in the centre position...
, co-captain Steve BuckinghamSteve Buckingham (rugby league)Steve Buckingham is a New Zealand rugby league coach and player. His position of preference is at Halfback. He is currently the head coach of the Mount Albert Lions.-Early years:...
, SalaSala Fa'alogoSala Fa'alogo is a New Zealand rugby league player who played professionally for Widnes in the Super League. He currently plays for the Mount Albert Lions in the Auckland Rugby League's Fox Memorial competition....
and David Fa'alogoDavid Fa'alogoDavid Fa'alogo is a professional rugby league footballer with the Huddersfield Giants of Super League, formerly contracted with the South Sydney Rabbitohs of the National Rugby League...
, Lee FinnertyLee FinnertyLee Finnerty is a New Zealand former rugby league footballer who played professionally for the Halifax Blue Sox.-Playing career:Finnerty joined the Marist Richmond Brothers in 2000 with the launch of the Bartercard Cup....
, Peter LewisPeter Lewis (rugby league)-Early years:A junior from Wellington's Upper Hutt, Lewis was signed by the Auckland Warriors in 1998 and moved to Auckland. In Auckland he played for the Warriors unbeaten reserve grade side in 1998 and was good enough to be selected for the Junior Kiwis. He attracted some interest from Australian...
, co-captain Ben LytheBen LytheBen Lythe is a former professional rugby league player. His position of preference was at Halfback. He was also a noted goalkicker.-Early years:...
, Hutch MaiavaHutch MaiavaHutch Maiava, born 26 October 1976 in Auckland, New Zealand is a Samoan rugby league player for the Penrith Panthers in the NRL. Maiva's position of choice is at .-Playing career:...
, Wayne McDadeWayne McDadeWayne McDade is a New Zealand rugby league player who has represented Samoa. His position of choice is Prop.-Playing career:...
and David MylesDavid Myles (rugby league)David Myles is a former professional rugby league footballer. He played for the Gold Coast Titans, North Queensland Cowboys, Auckland Warriors and the Gold Coast Chargers in first grade...
. - Otahuhu were coached by Dean ClarkDean Clark (rugby league)Dean Clark is a New Zealand rugby league coach and former footballer who represented his country between 1989 and 1992. He is the current coach of the Papakura Sea Eagles in the Auckland Rugby League competition.-Playing career:...
and included Isaak Ah MauIsaak Ah MauIsaak Ah Mau is a rugby league player who played for the North Queensland Cowboys and the Brisbane Broncos in the National Rugby League . He plays in the front-row. He is the brother of Leeson Ah Mau....
, George CarmontGeorge CarmontGeorge Carmont is a professional rugby league footballer for the Wigan Warriors of the Super League competition...
, co-captain Esau MannEsau MannEsau Mann is a Tongan former rugby league player who represented his country at the 2000 World Cup. He is a cousin of fellow internationals Duane and George Mann.-Playing career:...
, Odell ManuelOdell ManuelOdell Manuel is a former New Zealand rugby league player and almost the Australian Powerlifting champion.-Early years:Growing up in Auckland, Manuel was a Otahuhu Leopards junior and in 1997 was selected for the Junior Kiwis.-Rugby league career:...
, Vince MellarsVince MellarsVincent Mellars is a New Zealand Rugby League player who currently plays for the Crusaders in the European Super League. He has previously played in the National Rugby League and Air New Zealand Cup. His position is in the Centres...
, co-captain Boycie NelsonBoycie NelsonBoycie Nelson is a New Zealand rugby league footballer who currently plays for the Glenora Bears. His position of preference is in the Centres and he also kicks goals.-New Zealand:...
, Meti NoovaoMeti NoovaoMeti Noovao is a former rugby league player. His position of preference was at Lock, although he was something of a utility. Meti was also a competent goal scorer, being a left footed goal kicker....
, Jonathan SmithJonathan Smith (rugby league)Jonathan Smith is a former New Zealand rugby league player. His position of preference was in the Second Row.-Playing career:...
, Butch Tua and George TuakuraGeorge TuakuraGeorge Tuakura is a Cook Islands rugby league player who currently plays for the Central Comets in the Queensland Cup...
. - Eastern were coached by James LeuluaiJames LeuluaiA'au James Leuluai is a New Zealand former international rugby league player. His favoured position was centre. He is the father of Wigan Warriors and New Zealand international Thomas Leuluai. He is also the uncle of Leeds Rhinos prop Kylie Leuluai....
and included DavidDavid FisiiahiDavid Fisiiahi is a Tongan rugby league player who represented his country at the 2000 World Cup and currently plays for the Ellerslie Eagles. He is the identical twin of fellow Tongan International Paul.-Playing career:...
and Paul FisiiahiPaul FisiiahiPaul Fisiiahi is a Tongan rugby league player who represented his country at the 2000 World Cup and currently plays for the Howick Hornets. He is the identical twin of fellow Tongan International David.-Playing career:...
, Eddie and Phillip LeuluaiPhillip LeuluaiPhillip Leuluai is a New Zealand rugby league player of Samoan heritage and descent who currently plays for the Salford City Reds in the Super League competition...
, Zebastian Lucky LuisiZebastian Lucky LuisiZebastian Lucky Luisi, born 22 December 1984 in Auckland, New Zealand, is an New Zealand rugby league player.Lucky Luisi played for Doncaster in National League Two having signed in February 2008 from Harlequins RL.At the start of the 2009 Season he joined championship club Barrow RaidersLuisi's...
, Jeremiah PaiJeremiah PaiJeremiah Pai is a New Zealand rugby league player who currently plays for the Auckland Vulcans and the Northcote Tigers.-Early years:He was first noticed when playing for the Eastern Tornadoes in the Bartercard Cup before making his National Rugby League debut for the New Zealand Warriors in...
, Herewini RangiHerewini RangiHerewini Rangi is a New Zealand rugby league coach and former player who played one match in the National Rugby League. He was a hooker/back rower who could also kick goals.-Early years:...
and Logan SwannLogan SwannLogan Swann is a former professional rugby league footballer who represented his country. Swann is related to several other rugby league players, notably cousins Willie and Anthony.-Early years:...
. - Manurewa were coached by Trevor Clark and included Henry Fa'afiliHenry Fa'afiliHenry Fa'afili is a Samoan rugby player. He originally played Rugby league but switched codes in 2007 to play rugby union for Biarritz Olympique. He is currently signed to Connacht Rugby in the Celtic League after departing Leeds Carnegie in June 2011. Fa'afili's position of choice is on the Wing...
, Cheyenne Motu and Neville Ramsey. - Taranaki were coached by Alan Jackson. Jackson himself played in one match, coming on as a substitute when his side was reduced to twelve men.
- Central were coached by John LomaxJohn Lomax (rugby league)John Junior Lomax is a New Zealand former rugby league player who represented his country. He is the brother of another international, David Lomax.-Early years:...
and Peter Sixtus and included Weller HaurakiWeller HaurakiWeller Hauraki is a professional rugby league player who currently plays for the Leeds Rhinos in the Super League. He is a New Zealand Māori representative. Hauraki is a Second Rower...
, David LomaxDavid LomaxDavid Walter Lomax is a New Zealand rugby league coach and former player who represented his country. He is the brother of another international, John Lomax.-Early years:...
, Billy WeepuBilly WeepuBilly Weepu is a New Zealand former professional rugby league footballer who played for the Manly Sea Eagles. He is the brother of All Black Piri Weepu.-Early years:...
and Sonny WhakarauSonny WhakarauSonny Whakarau is a former New Zealand rugby league footballer who played professionally in England and represented the New Zealand Māori.-Playing career:...
. - Wellington were coached by Gerard StokesGerard StokesGerard James Stokes is a New Zealand rugby league coach and former player who represented his country. He is currently the coach of the Serbian national side...
and included Lusi SioneLusi SioneLusi Sione is a former New Zealand rugby league player who played for Workington Town and represented the Canterbury and New Zealand 'A'.-Playing career:Sione started his career in the Lion Red Cup, playing for the Canterbury Country Cardinals....
. - Canterbury were coached by Phil Prescott who was assisted by Brent StuartBrent StuartBrent Clifford Stuart is a rugby league coach and former player who represented his country.-Playing career:A West Coast and Canterbury representative, Stuart spent two years in the Northern Territory in the mid-1980s and represented the Territory against Parramatta. In 1993 he was invited to be...
. The team included Chris Bamford, captain Shane Beyers, Charlie HerekotukutukuCharlie HerekotukutukuCharlie Herekotukutuku , is a New Zealand rugby league player who currently plays for the Balmain Ryde Eastwood Tigers in the New South Wales Cup and the Mount Pritchard Mounties in the Bundaberg Red Cup. He plays as a five-eighth, half-back or hooker and is a recognised goal-kicker...
, Corey LawrieCorey LawrieCorey Lawrie is a New Zealand rugby league player who currently is the player-coach of the Hornby Panthers...
, Tangia TongiiaTangia TongiiaTangia Tongiia is a Cook Islander former rugby league footballer who at representative level has played for Cook Islands, playing at .-Playing career:...
and Vince Whare. Before the season started the Bulls played pre-season matches against the Cronulla SharksCronulla SharksThe Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks are Australian professional Rugby league team based in Cronulla, in the Sutherland Shire, Southern Sydney, New South Wales...
in Timaru at Alpine Energy StadiumAlpine Energy StadiumAlpine Energy Stadium is a multi-purpose stadium in Timaru, New Zealand. It is currently used mostly for rugby union matches. The stadium is able to hold 12,000 people.-History:...
and against a Mainland XIII selection in Christcurch.
Seasons Standings
| Team | Pld | W | D | L | PF | PA | PD | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mt Albert Lions Mt Albert Lions The Mount Albert Lions are a rugby league club based in Mount Albert, New Zealand. The Lions home ground is at Fowlds Park. Their patron is the former Prime Minister of New Zealand, Helen Clark. In 2008 and 2009 the Lions won the Fox Memorial.... |
16 | 15 | 0 | 1 | 620 | 270 | 350 | 30 |
| Hibiscus Coast Raiders Hibiscus Coast Raiders The Hibiscus Coast Raiders are a rugby league club based on the Hibiscus Coast, New Zealand. They compete in Auckland Rugby League's Fox Memorial competition and between 2000 and 2005 were also involved in the Bartercard Cup competition.-History:... |
16 | 11 | 0 | 5 | 536 | 377 | 159 | 22 |
| Otahuhu Leopards Otahuhu Leopards The Otahuhu Leopards are a rugby league club based in Otahuhu, New Zealand. The club competes in the Fox Memorial competition run by the Auckland Rugby League. They are coached by Peter Caccioppoli. Between 2000 and 2003 they also competed in the Bartercard Cup.The team are the current holders of... |
16 | 10 | 0 | 6 | 636 | 393 | 243 | 20 |
| Eastern Tornadoes Eastern Tornadoes The Eastern Tornadoes were a New Zealand rugby league franchise that competed in the New Zealand Rugby League's Bartercard Cup and Auckland Rugby League's Super 12 competitions. They were formed to represent the rugby league clubs of East Auckland.-History:... |
16 | 10 | 0 | 6 | 512 | 465 | 47 | 20 |
| Marist Richmond Brothers Marist Richmond Brothers The Marist Richmond Brothers were a New Zealand rugby league franchise that played in the Bartercard Cup. They were a joint venture between two Auckland Rugby League clubs, the Richmond Bulldogs and the Marist Saints. In 2005 the competition was reorganised and the club, along with the Mt Albert... |
16 | 9 | 1 | 6 | 581 | 449 | 132 | 19 |
| Wellington Franchise Wellington Orcas The Wellington rugby league team are a rugby league team that represents the Wellington Rugby League in New Zealand Rugby League competitions. They currently compete in the National Zonal Competition as the Wellington Orcas.-Early years:... |
16 | 9 | 1 | 6 | 547 | 449 | 98 | 19 |
| Northcote Tigers Northcote Tigers The Northcote Tigers are a rugby league club based in Northcote, New Zealand. The club was founded in 1910 as the Northcote Warriors.The Tigers compete in the Fox Memorial competition run by the Auckland Rugby League. Between 2000 and 2002 the Northcote Tigers competed in the national Bartercard... |
16 | 8 | 0 | 8 | 401 | 472 | ||
| 16 | ||||||||
| Glenora Bears Glenora Bears The Glenora Bears are a rugby league football club based in Glen Eden, New Zealand who compete in Auckland Rugby League's Fox Memorial competition. The club was established in 1931... |
16 | 5 | 2 | 9 | 394 | 515 | ||
| 12 | ||||||||
| Manurewa Marlins Manurewa Marlins The Manurewa Marlins are a rugby league club based in Manurewa, New Zealand. The Marlins compete in Auckland Rugby League's Fox Memorial competition. Between 2000 and 2003 they competed in the national Bartercard Cup competition.-Notable players:... |
16 | 5 | 1 | 10 | 377 | 511 | ||
| 11 | ||||||||
| Canterbury Bulls Canterbury Bulls The Canterbury rugby league team are a rugby league team who represent the Canterbury Rugby League. They are currently nicknamed the Bulls but have previously had other nicknames such as the Reds. They are based at Rugby League Park in Christchurch.... |
16 | 5 | 0 | 11 | 386 | 531 | ||
| 10 | ||||||||
| Central Falcons Central Falcons The Manawatu rugby league team are a rugby league team that represents the Manawatu Rugby League in New Zealand Rugby League competitions. They have previously been nicknamed the Mustangs and between 2002 and 2007 competed in the Bartercard Cup as the Central Falcons.Manawatu has a strong domestic... |
16 | 3 | 1 | 12 | 330 | 586 | ||
| 7 | ||||||||
| Taranaki Wildcats | 16 | 2 | 2 | 12 | 334 | 636 | ||
| 6 | ||||||||
The Playoffs
| Match | Winner | Loser | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Elimination Play-off | Marist Richmond Brothers | 56 | Eastern Tornadoes | 22 |
| Preliminary Semifinal | Hibiscus Coast Raiders | 40 | Otahuhu Leopards | 16 |
| Elimination Semifinal | Otahuhu Leopards | 66 | Marist Richmond Brothers | 16 |
| Qualification Semifinal | Hibiscus Coast Raiders | 26 | Mt Albert Lions | 24 |
| Preliminary Final | Mt Albert Lions | 36 | Otahuhu Leopards | 20 |
Grand Final
Around 5000 watched the match, the last played at Carlaw Park
Carlaw Park
Carlaw Park was a multi-purpose stadium in Parnell, a suburb of Auckland, New Zealand.-History:The stadium's grandstands and terraces were built in 1916, and it became the home of rugby league in Auckland from 1921...
. Sala Fa'alogo was the man of the match.
| Team | Half-time | Total |
|---|---|---|
| Mt Albert Lions | 10 | 24 |
| Hibiscus Coast Raiders | 4 | 20 |
Awards
|
Boycie Nelson Boycie Nelson is a New Zealand rugby league footballer who currently plays for the Glenora Bears. His position of preference is in the Centres and he also kicks goals.-New Zealand:... (256; Otahuhu) Lee Finnerty Lee Finnerty is a New Zealand former rugby league footballer who played professionally for the Halifax Blue Sox.-Playing career:Finnerty joined the Marist Richmond Brothers in 2000 with the launch of the Bartercard Cup.... (Mt Albert) and Archie Ikihele (Otahuhu) |
North Island Super Six
CoastlineCoastline rugby league team
The Coastline rugby league team are New Zealand rugby league team that represents the Coastline Rugby League. They have been nicknamed the Mariners.-History:...
, Taranaki
Taranaki rugby league team
The Taranaki rugby league team are New Zealand rugby league team that represents the Taranaki Rugby League. They have been nicknamed the Rockets, Sharks and Wildcats.-1908:...
, Waikato, Manawatu, Bay of Plenty and Wellington competed in the North Island Super 6. Wellington and Manawatu did not select players from the Wellington Franchise
Wellington Orcas
The Wellington rugby league team are a rugby league team that represents the Wellington Rugby League in New Zealand Rugby League competitions. They currently compete in the National Zonal Competition as the Wellington Orcas.-Early years:...
or Central Falcons
Central Falcons
The Manawatu rugby league team are a rugby league team that represents the Manawatu Rugby League in New Zealand Rugby League competitions. They have previously been nicknamed the Mustangs and between 2002 and 2007 competed in the Bartercard Cup as the Central Falcons.Manawatu has a strong domestic...
respectively.
| Team | Pld | W | D | L | PF | PA | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wellington | 5 | 4 | 0 | 1 | 223 | 162 | 8 |
| Manawatu | 5 | 3 | 0 | 2 | 232 | 172 | 6 |
| Waikato | 5 | 3 | 0 | 2 | 188 | 153 | 6 |
| Coastline Coastline rugby league team The Coastline rugby league team are New Zealand rugby league team that represents the Coastline Rugby League. They have been nicknamed the Mariners.-History:... |
5 | 3 | 0 | 2 | 169 | 174 | 6 |
| Bay of Plenty | 5 | 1 | 0 | 4 | 131 | 189 | 2 |
| Taranaki Taranaki rugby league team The Taranaki rugby league team are New Zealand rugby league team that represents the Taranaki Rugby League. They have been nicknamed the Rockets, Sharks and Wildcats.-1908:... |
5 | 1 | 0 | 4 | 145 | 238 | 2 |
Waikato defeated minor premiers Wellington 46-30 at the Grand Final, held in Wellington.
Waikato were coached by Tawera Nikau
Tawera Nikau
Tawera Nuieia Nikau is a former professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s. A New Zealand international representative forward, he played club football at a number of different clubs in New Zealand, England and Australia during his career, including the Melbourne Storm's victory...
and included Herewini Rangi
Herewini Rangi
Herewini Rangi is a New Zealand rugby league coach and former player who played one match in the National Rugby League. He was a hooker/back rower who could also kick goals.-Early years:...
. Manawatu included Rangi Chase
Rangi Chase
Rangi Chase is a professional rugby league footballer who currently plays in the Super League competition for the Castleford Tigers. He attended famous Maori school Te Aute College in 1999 before moving to Australia where he attended Keebra Park State High School...
and Weller Hauraki
Weller Hauraki
Weller Hauraki is a professional rugby league player who currently plays for the Leeds Rhinos in the Super League. He is a New Zealand Māori representative. Hauraki is a Second Rower...
. Taranaki were coached by Howie Tamati
Howie Tamati
Howard Kevin Tamati, MBE, is a New Zealand former professional rugby league footballer and coach who played for his country. He is the cousin of fellow international Kevin Tamati.-Playing career:Tamati played for Wigan between 1983 and 1984...
.
South Island Provincial Championship
Canterbury A, OtagoOtago rugby league team
The Otago rugby league team are New Zealand rugby league team that represents the Otago Rugby League. They are known as the Whalers. In the past they have been nicknamed the Storm, the Raiders and the 45er's.-History:...
, Southland
Southland rugby league team
The Southland rugby league team are New Zealand rugby league team that represents the Southland Rugby League. In the past they have been nicknamed the Rams.-History:...
, Tasman
Tasman rugby league team
The Tasman rugby league team are New Zealand rugby league team that represents the Tasman Rugby League. They have previously been nicknamed the Orcas but in 2010 adopted the Titans nickname...
and the West Coast
West Coast rugby league team
The West Coast rugby league team are New Zealand rugby league team that represents the West Coast Rugby League. They have been nicknamed the Chargers.-History:...
competed in the South Island Provincial Championship.
Otago won the title, defeating Canterbury A 23-22 in the Grand Final.
Phil Bergman
Phil Bergman
Phil Bergman is a New Zealand former rugby league footballer who represented New Zealand Māori and played professionally for Paris Saint-Germain in the Super League.-Playing career:...
played for Tasman.
Mainland Super Ten
The Riccarton Knights defeated the Linwood Keas 42-22 to win the Mainland Super 10 championship.The Thacker Shield
Thacker Shield
The Thacker Shield is a rugby league football trophy awarded on an annual basis to the winner of a match between the champion clubs of the Canterbury Rugby League and West Coast Rugby League.-History:...
was contested as part of the Mainland Super 10, with the holder defending it at every home game. In 2003 the Thacker Shield returned to its original once a year inter-district challenge format.
Super 10 Dreamteam; Fa'atali Sa (Papanui), Charlie Herekotukutuku
Charlie Herekotukutuku
Charlie Herekotukutuku , is a New Zealand rugby league player who currently plays for the Balmain Ryde Eastwood Tigers in the New South Wales Cup and the Mount Pritchard Mounties in the Bundaberg Red Cup. He plays as a five-eighth, half-back or hooker and is a recognised goal-kicker...
(Kaiapoi), Clinton Fraser (Sydenham), Hamish Barclay (Riccarton), Sam Lemalie (Linwood), Josh Reuben (Kaiapoi), Aaron Whittaker
Aaron Whittaker
Aaron Whittaker is a former professional rugby league footballer. A New Zealand international representative halfback, he played club football in Australia, England and New Zealand.-Early years:...
(Riccarton), Leon Hallie (Otago), Andrew Auimatagi (Linwood), Mathias Pitama (Kaiapoi), Andrew Tallott (Hornby), Goerge Taunga (Southland) and Corey Lawrie
Corey Lawrie
Corey Lawrie is a New Zealand rugby league player who currently is the player-coach of the Hornby Panthers...
(Hornby). Coach: Brent Ringdahl (Riccarton).
National Junior Competitions
The Kiwi Cup was the National Junior Competition for under-18s and was held between Akarana, Counties-Manukau, Waikato, Canterbury, Wellington and Manawatu. AkaranaNgati Akarana
Ngāti Ākarana is a Māori iwi of New Zealand. It is a pan-tribal iwi of Māori who have migrated to the city of Auckland ....
, who included Jerome Ropati
Jerome Ropati
Jerome Ropati is a professional rugby league footballer for the New Zealand Warriors of the National Rugby League. Ropati was a member of the World Cup-winning New Zealand team in 2008...
, Epalahame Lauaki
Epalahame Lauaki
Epalahame Lauaki is a professional rugby league footballer formerly contracted to English club Hull in the Super League. He is brother of All Black Sione Lauaki...
, Marcus Perenara
Marcus Perenara
Marcus Perenara is a New Zealand rugby league player who played professionally for the Parramatta Eels.He is the brother of Henry Perenara.-Playing career:...
and Evarn Tuimavave
Evarn Tuimavave
Evarn Tuimavave is a professional rugby league footballer who currently plays for the Newcastle Knights of the National Rugby League. He has also represented the New Zealand Kiwis and was part of the 2008 World Cup-winning squad...
, defeated Counties-Manukau 42-22 in the final. Counties-Manukau included Toshio Laiseni
Toshio Laiseni
Toshio Laiseni is a Tongan rugby league footballer. His position of choice is either at fullback or on the wing.-Early career:...
.
The Foundation Cup was the National Junior Competition for under-16s. The invited teams were Counties-Manukau, Wellington, Akarana, Canterbury, Waikato and Northland. Counties-Manukau, who included Kim Uasi
Kim Uasi
Eliakim Uasi is a rugby league player. His position of choice is at hooker.-Playing career:A Mangere East Hawks junior, Uasi has previously he played for the Counties Manukau Jetz and Harbour League in the Bartercard Cup competition...
and Willie Heta, defeated Wellington 28-6.
Australian competitions
The New Zealand WarriorsNew Zealand Warriors
The New Zealand Warriors are a professional rugby league football club based in Auckland, New Zealand. They compete in the National Rugby League premiership and are the League's only team from outside Australia...
competed in the National Rugby League
National Rugby League
The National Rugby League is the top league of professional rugby league football clubs in Australasia. The NRL's main competition, called the Telstra Premiership , is contested by sixteen teams, fifteen of which are based in Australia with one based in New Zealand...
competition. They finished as minor premiers and went on to make the Grand Final before losing to the Sydney Roosters
Sydney Roosters
The Sydney Roosters are an Australian professional rugby league football club based in the Eastern Suburbs of Sydney. The club competes in the National Rugby League and is one of the oldest and most successful clubs in Australian rugby league history, having won twelve New South Wales Rugby League...
30-8.
St. Paul's College
St. Paul's College, Auckland
St Paul's College is a college for year 7 to 13 boys and offers a Catholic education to its students. It is located in the central Auckland suburb of Ponsonby. The school originates from 1903 when the Marist Brothers opened Sacred Heart College, Auckland on the site...
participated in the Australian Schoolboys Nutri-Grain Cup and made the quarter finals, defeating Erindale College 30-10 and St Dominics College
St Dominics College, Sydney
St Dominic's College is an all boys Catholic secondary school located in Penrith, New South Wales. St. Dominic's College was established in 1959 under Christian Brothers and to this day is officially run by Christian Brothers. Between 1978 and 1985 years 11 and 12 at the college were co-educational...
13-12, before being eliminated 10-6 by Patrician Brothers' College. St Paul's had won a National Schools competition to qualify for the Nutri-Grain Cup, defeating Kelston Boys' High School
Kelston Boys' High School
Kelston Boys' High School is an all-boys state secondary school in Kelston, a suburb in the Waitakere region of Auckland, New Zealand. It was created in 1963 when the roll of Kelston High School became too large for the site on the corner of Archibald and Gt North Rds...
20-12 in the Semifinal and Aranui High School
Aranui High School
Aranui High School is a large secondary school for Years 9-15, in Christchurch, New Zealand.A redevelopment of the school is occurring 2009-2011....
16-6 in the Grandfinal.
Auckland
The Hibiscus Coast RaidersHibiscus Coast Raiders
The Hibiscus Coast Raiders are a rugby league club based on the Hibiscus Coast, New Zealand. They compete in Auckland Rugby League's Fox Memorial competition and between 2000 and 2005 were also involved in the Bartercard Cup competition.-History:...
won the Fox Memorial trophy, defeating Otahuhu 44-40 in double extra time. The Papakura Sea Eagles
Papakura Sea Eagles
The Papakura Sea Eagles are an Auckland rugby league club based in Papakura. The Sea Eagles currently compete in the Fox Memorial competition run by the Auckland Rugby League.-Kiwi Representatives:...
won the Rukutai Shield (minor premiership). Earlier in the season the Hibiscus Coast Raiders had won the Roope Rooster cup, defeating Marist
Marist Saints
The Marist Saints is a rugby league club based in Mount Albert, New Zealand. They regularly feature in the Fox Memorial, the premier division in Auckland Rugby League...
64-4 in the final. Ellerslie won the Sharman Cup while the Mount Wellington Warriors won the Phelan Shield.
The Hibiscus Coast's Willie Bishop
Willie Bishop
Willie Bishop is a New Zealand rugby footballer who played for the Australian rugby union sevens team.-Playing career:Bishop initially played touch rugby and rugby league and in 2000 he won the New Zealand Junior Sportsperson of the Year and New Zealand Maori Sportsperson of the Year awards...
won the Best and Fairest award and the Bert Humphries Memorial Trophy as best back in the competition. Junior Asiata from Otahuhu won the Bert Humphries Memorial Trophy as best forward while Papakura's Stuart Heslop won the Most Improved award. Asiata also won the Rothville Trophy as player of the year while Bishop was awarded the Lance Painter Rosebowl as top goal kicker. Otahuhu's Shane Dance won the Lipscombe Cup as Sportsman of the Year.
Papakura were coached by Kelly Shelford
Kelly Shelford
Kelly Shelford is a New Zealand rugby league player who represented his country, including in Test matches that counted towards the 1992 World Cup.-Playing career:...
while Mount Albert included Carl Doherty
Carl Doherty
Carl Doherty is a former professional rugby league player. His position of preference was Fullback.-Playing career:...
and Manukau included Ben Vaeau
Ben Vaeau
Ben Vaeau is a rugby league player who currently plays for Brisbane Easts in the Queensland Cup. His position of preference is at prop.-Playing career:Vaeau played for the Manukau Magpies in the 2002 Auckland Rugby League competition....
.
Wellington
The Randwick Kingfishers won the Wellington Rugby LeagueWellington Rugby League
Wellington Rugby League is the local sporting body responsible for the administration of Rugby league in the Greater Wellington region. It is responsible for the local competition of the same name, as well as its representative team, the Wellington rugby league team.- Local Senior Competition :The...
title, defeating the Wainuiomata Lions
Wainuiomata Lions
The Wainuiomata Lions are a New Zealand rugby league club based in Wainuiomata, Wellington. They compete in the Wellington Rugby League competition.-Noted Players:...
in the grand final.
Canterbury
Riccarton won the Canterbury Rugby LeagueCanterbury Rugby League
Canterbury Rugby League is the regional body that administers rugby league in Canterbury, New Zealand. CRL manages local competitions from senior level down to age group competitions. Canterbury Rugby League also manages the Canterbury rugby league team which represents the region in New Zealand...
title, defeating Linwood 54-14 in the grand final.
Aaron Whittaker
Aaron Whittaker
Aaron Whittaker is a former professional rugby league footballer. A New Zealand international representative halfback, he played club football in Australia, England and New Zealand.-Early years:...
and Logan Edwards
Logan Edwards
-Domestic career:Edwards played for the dominating Canterbury provincial side of the early 1990s alongside such talent as Quentin Pongia, Mike Dorreen, Whetu Taewa and coach Frank Endacott. This side continued its success as the Canterbury Cardinals in the 1994 Lion Red Cup...
played for Riccarton. Kane Ferris
Kane Ferris
Kane Ferris is a New Zealand rugby league player who previously played in the National Rugby League. His position of preference is Prop.-Playing career:A long time representative of Canterbury age groups, he made the Junior Kiwis in 2002...
played for Linwood.
Other Competitions
Turangawaewae and the Taniwharau Rugby League ClubTaniwharau Rugby League Club
The Taniwharau Rugby League Club is a rugby league club from Huntly, New Zealand. They compete in the Waikato Rugby League club competition. The club plays in a green and gold strip and are based at Waahi Pa.-History:...
met in the inaugural Waicoa Bay grand final with Taniwharau winning 28-26. Turangawaewae won the Waikato Rugby League
Waikato Rugby League
Waikato Rugby League is the local sporting body responsible for the administration of Rugby league in the Waikato region of New Zealand. The WRL are represented by the Waikato rugby league team...
Premiership. The Ngongotaha Chiefs
Ngongotaha Chiefs
The Ngongotaha Chiefs are a New Zealand rugby league club. They are from Ngongotaha in the Bay of Plenty. In 2000 and 2001 they competed in the Bartercard Cup but now they compete in the Bay of Plenty Rugby League competition.-Notable players:...
defeated Pikiao to win the Bay of Plenty Rugby League
Bay of Plenty Rugby League
Bay of Plenty Rugby League is the local sporting body responsible for the administration of Rugby league in the Bay of Plenty region of New Zealand...
competition. Te Paamu, who included Andrew Leota
Andrew Leota
Andrew Leota is a Tongan rugby footballer who represented his country in rugby league at the 2000 World Cup.-Playing career:Leota originally played rugby league, being named in the Tonga squad for the 2000 World Cup and representing Coastline between 1997 and 2001...
, defeated Kawerau 46-22 in the Coastline final.
The Waitara Bears defeated Marist 26-12 in the Taranaki Rugby League
Taranaki Rugby League
Taranaki Rugby League is the local sporting body responsible for the administration of Rugby league in the Taranaki region of New Zealand. The TRL are represented by the Taranaki rugby league team...
grand final. Linton, who included Jesse Royal
Jesse Royal
Jesse Te Ahukaramu Royal is a former professional rugby league player from New Zealand who played for the Newcastle Knights and New Zealand Warriors in the National Rugby League. Jesse Royal's position of choice was as a prop....
, defeated Levin 48-26 in the Manawatu Rugby League
Manawatu Rugby League
Manawatu Rugby League was formed in 1957. They are currently part of the Mid-Central zone along with Taranaki Rugby League.-Kiwi Players:Only one player from Manawatu has ever made the New Zealand Kiwis. This was Kiwi number 456, Dick Uluave, who played two tests in 1979.-National Competitions:In...
grand final.
Blenheim Central defeated Nelson 32-12 in the Tasman grand final while Suburbs won the West Coast Rugby League title by defeating Cobden-Kohinoor 28-20.