The Vonnias Boxing Day Touch wrapped up 2024 for Cook Islands Touch with Team Touch Deez crowned champions in the competitive category and Team Vonnias Vikings taking the title in the social category.

The tournament held on Thursday drew a vibrant crowd to Nukupure Park, showcasing exceptional touch rugby skills and talent from all participating teams.

The social teams competing in the annual tournament were Dramaster, Vonnias Vikings, TMS, Vonnias Vikonas, GT Underdawgs, Not Fast Just Furious, Rolly Pollies and Notchya.5. The competitive division featured Young Gunners, Outlaws, AreTanu, Pest from the West, KAPS, Notchya, Touch Deez and Wiggles.

According to Cook Islands Touch Association, the round-robin competition featured fierce matchups as teams battled for top spots.

The 2024 Vonnias Boxing Day Touch social category champions Team Vonnias Vikings. CITA/24122705

In the social category, Vonnias Vikings and TMS led Pool A, while Notchya.5 and Vonnias Vikonas topped Pool B. For the competitive teams, Touch Deez and KAPS dominated Pool A, with AreTanu and Young Gunners shining in Pool B.

In the crossover semifinals, Vonnias Vikings overcame family rivals Vonnias Vikonas to secure their spot in the social grand finals. Notchya.5 edged out TMS in a thrilling drop-off match to face the Vikings. The Vikings triumphed 4-2 in the final, claiming the social category title.

In the competitive division, Touch Deez overcame Young Gunners to meet KAPS, who narrowly defeated AreTanu.

Touch Deez, led by skilled youngsters including Kruize Walters, son of the legendary Peter Walters, the “godfather of Touch New Zealand”, showcased poise and exceptional talent.

KAPS also impressed, with local rising stars Logan Ahau and Paul Ngaroi supporting Viiga Reupena and former touch veteran Vaivase Samania, bringing flair and experience to the game.

Touch Deez won 4-2 over KAPS, to win the competitive category championship.

Cook Islands Touch Association president Vou Williams and executives extend their gratitude and Atawaiwolo to Vonnias Ltd for their generous support of the tournament. They also acknowledged the players, supporters, volunteers and dedicated officials for their hard work, commitment and passion in keeping the game and the Boxing Day Touch tradition alive and thriving on our island paradise.

CITA wishes everyone a blessed, safe and prosperous New Years.

Winners

Best Try of the Day – Young Tai Blake Jnr from Team Rolly Pollies with an impressive 20m-30m runaway try in one of their matches.

Social Female Most Valuable Player – Genesis Atai (Team Notchya.5)

Social Male Most Valuable Player – Larrian Heather-Rau (Team Vonnias Vikings)

Competitive Female Most Valuable Player – Ngamata Moeka'a (Team KAPS)

Competitive Male Most Valuable Player – Kruize Walters (Team Touch Deez)

1st placing in Social Category – Team Vonnias Vikings

2nd placing in Social Category – Team Notchya.5

1st placing in Competitive Category – Team Touch Deez

2nd placing in Competitive Category – Team KAPS