The 2024 rugby season was one we'll never forget as part of the St Paul's U16 Gold Rugby Team. The pinnacle of the season came in the final, where the team claimed the John Boe Cup with a hard-fought 31-22 win over St John's College.

The final was the reward for all the growth we experienced together. As the season progressed, the team built confidence, sharpened their rugby IQ, and developed a positive style of play. Week by week, they pushed themselves and each other, and that hard work culminated in the championship win.

The biggest challenge the team faced was the early loss in the first-round match to St John's. This could have been a setback for the season, but instead, it became a turning point. The boys regrouped, and when they faced them again in the top eight and then in the final, they knew what they were capable of and came out on top.

Every game was tough, especially going up against First XV teams and often giving up size to their opponents. But the team stuck together, believed in the process, and gave everything in training.

Congratulations to the team of: Jackson Hay (captain), Flynn Holten, George Benjamin, Flynn Booth, Rory Boynton, Paxton Tuhoro, Timi Carter, Josh Cashin, William Finnerty, Lucus Hull, George Kennedy, Rhys Lumsden, Lachie McGough, Stephen Miller, Keanu Nathan, Reason Piso, Ashley Pryor, Cace Ramsey, Billy Smythm Chase Thompson, James Verry, Cam Walters and Gus Weir.