Richie Smyrnis - Pride of the South
At the end of January, talented UHC footballer Richie Smyrnis (12SN) was selected to participate in the New Zealand Secondary School Football (NZSSF) mini tournament in Auckland.
The tournament brings together the best young footballers from around the country, featuring the NZSSF North team, NZSSF South team, and the NZ Māori U20’s. The tournament is also used to select the NZSSF Under 19 side.
The South team was made up of the top footballers from schools south of Hamilton, including major regions like Hawke's Bay, Manawatu, Taranaki, Wellington and the entire South Island!
Richie's exceptional workrate and fantastic attitude were on full display throughout the tournament and he was unlucky not to bag himself a couple of goals. The South team put up a strong fight, narrowly losing to the NZ Māori team, but put together a combative performance to secure a draw with the North team.
Although Richie was not selected for the final NZSSF Under 19 team this year, his impressive performances and character have undoubtedly put him in a strong position for selection next year.
His commitment to the game and his sportsmanship throughout the tournament have made Upper Hutt College incredibly proud.
Keep up the great work, Richie!
