It was a sensational start to the junior rugby season as Coromandel welcomed all our young players and seniors for a day filled with exhilarating rugby action.

The day kicked off with exciting matches across different age groups:

Coromandel Vs Waihi (Year 3)
Coromandel Vs Whangamata (Year 5)
Coromandel Vs Whangamata (Year 8)

The youngest players in Year 3 displayed boundless energy and enthusiasm, running up and down the field, scoring tries, and making tackles that had the crowd cheering with delight. It was heartwarming to see parents and grandparents enthusiastically supporting their little ones.

The Year 5 game against Whangamata, officiated by Waylon Brown, was a thrilling contest characterized by spirited back-and-forth action, with both teams showcasing their skills and scoring some fantastic tries.

Following the exciting Year 5 and Year 3 matches, attention turned to the Year 8 players who took to the field for their moment in the spotlight. While the game may have seemed one-sided, with Coromandel dominating, there were some remarkable tries that left an impression. Some of the young players even remarked on the impressive kicking prowess of a Coromandel player, jokingly suggesting they might be needed in the senior game. Additionally, it was inspiring to see a significant number of young women in the Year 8 team, signaling a bright future for club rugby in Coromandel.

Overall, it was a fantastic day of rugby for players and spectators alike, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead and instilling hope for the continued growth and success of rugby in Coromandel.

In the highly anticipated showdown between Coromandel and the Waihi Bullets, the atmosphere was electric as fans filled the stands, eager for a thrilling match. Before the game began, a moment of silence honored the memory of Koro Renata, adding a touch of solemnity to the proceedings.

As the game kicked off, Waihi seized an early opportunity, but a swift interception by Coromandel's Max Wirihana turned the tide. Wirihana's lightning-fast 90-meter run resulted in a try, bolstering Coromandel's lead to 7-0 after Jordan Olliff's successful conversion.

Building on their momentum, Coromandel capitalized on a penalty to extend their lead to 10-0. Despite Waihi's efforts, Coromandel's solid defense and strategic play kept them at bay.

Throughout the game, standout performances from players like Max Wirihana, who scored a hat-trick, and Jamie Stevenson, with a memorable solo try, helped Coromandel dominate. Te Kapua McLean, Haerengarangi Renata, and Christian Brown also made significant contributions, contributing to Coromandel's commanding 56-0 victory.

In the end, it was a day of celebration for Coromandel, both on and off the field, as they emerged victorious in a thrilling display of skill and teamwork.