Golden boot award to Teariki Matenga Jnr

In his first year of playing rugby league – 15-year-old Teariki Matenga Jnr not only captained his team to the grand finals of the under 16 grade, but he also won his club’s ‘Golden Boot’ award.

The young Titikaveka College student, the youngest child and only son of Teariki and Margaret Matenga, proudly showed off his shield which currently has pride of place among the many trophies the sporting family has achieved over the years.

The humble rising star says he reckons he won the prestigious awards because of his goal kicking during the season at the standoff position.

He adds that the golden boot shield is the first major sports award he has won.

”I was proud,“ says Matenga with a grin as he described how he felt when he was named the clubs golden boot trophy recipient.

He also reckons it’s the first award of many and with the rugby union season just around the corner – big things can be expected of this young Bulldogs talent.

Matenga thanks his three coaches and the club for their support of his team during the league season.

”I also want to thank all the boys for the season.“