St Thomas of Canterbury College Rugby programme 2019

Our programme is aimed at nurturing, upskilling and developing young players into future 1st Xv and Canterbury representatives. Through creating a positive growth mindset off the field allows players to excel on it. Coaches are encouraged to build a team culture based on hard work, honesty, pride and positive team spirit. These foundation pillars are somewhat intertwined with our STC school Values.

With 190 registered STC Rugby players in 2019 the next challenge was to have the right support around them. We are very fortunate to have a vast experience of coaches spread throughout the grades sharing their knowledge in developing up and coming players. As a school we are blessed with a high participation of staff, coaching or managing teams. 14 in total shows a true indication of sacrifice and commitment. We are lucky to have a group of very supportive parents with 11 putting their hands up to coach or manage teams.

STC had total of 8 teams all competing in section 1 in 2019. All teams represented the jersey with pride and mana. The introduction of the U13/14 U58kg team was a challenge throughout the season that the coaches and managers done a great job managing.

Trips:

• U12 Queenstown rugby festival
• U13 Taupo rugby festival
• U14 Wellington Hurricanes tournament
• U15 Japan Development tour, Wellington Hurricanes tournament, Condor 7’s in Auckland
• 2nd XV/U15 Timaru boys high school exchange
• 1st XV Travel to Nelson, Marlborough, Timaru as part of UC Championship

Other inter-school matches include 1st XV and U15 playing St Kevin's College (Oamaru) and Roncalli College (Timaru). Rising popularity has resulted with an influx of international touring schools requesting matches throughout the year.

Coaching clinics run by CRFU resource coaches for U14 - U18 added to the development of our player's skills and with their respective positions. It cement's our connection with Canterbury Rugby.

Club Day was a success with a huge turnout of students, families and parents to witness a fun day. The highlight for some was the vast range of delicious kai. Parents really turned it on and it will be hard to top next year.

We are very proud and appreciative of our players, families, supporters, sponsors, managers and coaches. Thank you to everyone who have somehow played a part .

We look forward to a big and better 2020..... See you there

Johnny Leo'o

STC Head of Rugby