Canadian visitors to play U16 rugby games

Canadian Lions Rugby Club arrives into Rarotonga next weekend to play four under 16 matches against our local boys.

The local under 16 teams will be combined regional teams namely Tupapa-Avatiu, Arorangi-Takuvaine and Ngatangiia-Titikaveka.

Cook Islands Rugby Union chief executive officer Ben Koteka explains that the combination teams is an attempt by CIRU to develop regional level rugby. This would be the next stage above clubs in the hope of building the local capacity of players and management.

Five touring teams from Canada, United Kingdom and New Zealand are confirmed to tour in 2010 with team grades ranging from under 14 to under 18 years which Koteka says is great for local development.

CIRU would like to thank all stakeholders, including Charles Carlson and Cook Islands Rugby League Association, for their support in the ‘off-season’ to allows games against our Canadian rugby union family.

Meanwhile the combined Avatiu-Tupapa under 16 team is being called to training this afternoon at the Tupapa field starting at 5pm.

The teams will be coached by Teokotai Tuaivi (Billy Bush) and Andrew Iroa.

The following players are asked to be at Tupapa for training – (Forwards) Jaemal Pakitoa, Marouna Ioane, Zeru Pera, Dave Mato, Petero Teio, Piri Maao Steven, Eric Newbigging,

John Pierre, Makea Tupa, John Vano; (Backs) Marcelo Rairoa, Stubby Kamana, Basil Matapo, Jamian Iroa, Stanly Tobia, Araiti, Nigel Hoeflich, Temaiva Smith, Arama Bishop, Richard Vainerere, Twin Tiro.