Rarotonga clubs are gearing up for the 2025 Cook Islands Rugby League domestic 13s competition, which kicks off next Friday, February 7.

The weekly competition expected to run for three months will feature premier men’s and women’s grades alongside the junior divisions.

The organisers are hoping to revive the reserves grade after missing out on it in the past couple of seasons due to player unavailability.

The recently crowned League Nines in Paradise champions Arorangi Bears are leaving no stone unturned in their preparations for the 13s competition.

The club has acquired highly-rated former Ngatangiia Matavera Sea Eagles coach Dion Nepia to lead the side this season.

Speaking to Cook Islands Rugby League, Nepia said he was looking forward to the challenge.

“It’s always a challenge being a new boy in a new environment. I suppose the benefit is that there is lot of experience here at Arorangi both on and off the field especially a very supportive executive committee which pays dividends and makes your job easier,” Nepia said. “And just the boys themselves, they are keen to learn something new.”

Nepia said he would be bringing in a new style, hoping it would give the Bears the edge they need to complete a rare double this season.

“(I’m) bringing something different to the club at the same time I’m changing my style and the way I coached last year because you just can’t bring the same kind of style from previous years.

“Coming from a different club, you got to work to your strength, what the team offers you in skills sets and that. Just looking forward to the challenge.”

Nepia anticipates an exciting season, with other clubs intensifying their preparations.

“I’m just looking forward to seeing the standard of footy that has changed through the last 12 months and pretty excited hearing the different things going on at other clubs,” he said.

“I believe the standard of footy has lifted on the island which is really positive for rugby league in the Cook Islands. I suppose the challenge is to keep up with one another.  There is no definite win anymore.

“I think the quality of the five teams that are in the comp is going to show lot of different things, it’s going to be a lot more excitement and hopefully the supporters of our clubs can get out there and support their clubs.”

Ngatangiia Matavera Sea Eagles coach David Toa and manager Daena Kataina. FACEBOOK/25012820

Meanwhile, David Toa has been named as the new head coach for the Sea Eagles.

In a Facebook post shared by CIRL, Sea Eagles manager Daena Kataina said: “We thank the Lord for this opportunity to give back to our club and community. There will be lots of challenges ahead however the immense support surrounding our decision has been nothing short with overwhelmed tough love, keep it real moments and growth.”

“Open invite to all players interested. We have an open door policy. Our training days are every Tuesdays and Thursdays 5pm, Nukupure Park. We will need a team support crew too. So bring down the boss wives and family.”