2020’s unprecedented events resulted in a compacted Rugby season which eventually kicked off in mid-June. A restricted season where families were broken apart on a Saturday morning as only 1 spectator allowed. Where signing in at the gate and hand sanitizer became the norm. It will be a year to remember.

With 8 STC Teams registered and players jumping out of their skin since the start of term 1, it was great to finally hit the grass. Around 200 players donned the blue, red and yellow strip this year.

The U14, U15blue, U15 red, 3rd XV and 2nd XV finished in the Top 4 in their respective grades. 3 teams would make their Finals and the U15 red and 2nd XV teams would eventually be crowned Kings of their grades. The U14, U15 and 2nd XV teams all winning and holding the challenge shields for consecutive weeks was one of the highlights of the season.

We have been awarded the Press Cup for most successful Rugby School/club in 2020. Because all our teams placed high in respective grades we gained the most aggregate points after all teams put together. It is the first time St Thomas has ever won it!

The Harmer led First XV strong home run of 6 wins from 7 matches going into the last round showed character but the lack of bonus points proved costly just to fall out of top 4 contention by 1 point. Memorable moments was beating top of the table and eventual winners St Andrews College complemented by a last minute win over Shirley Boys’ High to disrupt their hopes of a top 4 finish. With crowd restrictions in place the 1st XV sidelines would remain somber for the whole season missing the chants, singing and awesome support from the bleachers.

We are blessed to have a great number of staff and parents who sacrifice their time to coach, manage and help our boys. Our programme has always been based on Growth mindset, High performance and most importantly making good Respectful STC men out of our sons. The players have represented STC with Pride and Respect. They are history makers and history shakers. All the best to the year 13’s who are leaving us, you have left the jersey in a better state. Congratulations to Kole Harmer, Kieran Charlton, Richie Tupuailei, Felix Faatili and Sailosi Rova for selection for the 2020 Junior Crusaders camp. All the best Paul, Kieran and the U15 team for the Condor Sevens.

Looking forward to what 2021 has in store,

Brothers together, Brothers Forever.

Fa’afetai lava

Head of Rugby

Johnny Leo’o