Congratulations to the following Akarana Under 15 representative players from Richmond including: Daymon Abbey, Dylan Tavita, Carlos Henry. Mikey Williams, Sione Ngahe, Chanel Harris­ Tavita, Hayes Okesene, Soane Hufanga and Keaston Schmidt. 

Also congratulations and best of luck to former Richmond Premier coach Frank Fuimaono and Richmond Junior grade manager Anita Smith-McKinnon who form the Akarana Under 15s coaching and management team. 

Click here for more information

The Richmond Under 8s played Bay Roskill RED. Well done to Vincent Ieriko on his great performance who was also awarded player of the day. Final score 20-20 Draw.

Richmond Under 13s coached by Premier player Bronson Harden and Managed by Denise Dunn played the Glenora Bears. Player of the Day went to Timor Holo-Williams. Highlight of the day went to Glenora who have a big heart and didn't give up despite playing short of a full team. Final score Richmond 48 - Glenora 8. 

Congratulations to the following players from Richmond who have been selected for the Akarana Under 15s team. Well done on your appointment and we wish you all the very best on your series.
Daymon Abbey
Dylan Tavita
Carlos Henry
Mikey Williams
Sione Ngahe
Chanel Harris-Tavita
Hayes Okesene
Soane Hufanga
Keaston Schmidt

Talofa family and our beloved Richmond Under 18s

We have 8 players registered and we are looking for another 8 before we can take the field even though all we need is another 5 players. 8 so we can ensure to last the season. We will continue to train every Tuesday and Thursday until we find the required number of players.

Are you up for a challenge? Do you want to keep testing yourself as a league player? Do you know of someone looking for a team to play for? That is what is going on at the moment with our Under 18s team.

Am not going to lie, it is a very frustrating time but we can register a team any time throughout the season. We are going to persevere. I will continue to give you updates. We appreciate those who have signed up already and if your thinking of signing up please feel free to contact me and come down to the club. 

Faafetailava and God bless - Mathew Timaloa

On Saturday 29 March, the Richmond Rovers Junior club participated at the Grey Lynn Street Party organised by the Grey Lynn Business Association. This community run event allowed for the Richmond Rovers Rugby league & sports club to mix and mingle with other local businesses. The Richmond Rovers Junior club got together and ran a successful sausage sizzle barbecue fund-raiser outside of the Grey Lynn Tavern. 

Much thanks to the Grey Lynn Residents, Grey Lynn Business Association, the Richmond Junior club volunteers, Grey Lynn Tavern and our loyal supporters of Richmond Rovers rugby league. We appreciated the opportunity to promote our proud club and for also sharing your thoughts, feedback and welcomed donations. 

By LAUREN PRIESTLEY
Source: Harbour News

 A century-old club is breaking new ground by going cold turkey this year.
Richmond Rovers Rugby League & Sports Club, based at Grey Lynn Park, has been alcohol-free since March 17.

"We're basically promoting this as a sports club, not a drinking club," chairman Gus Fepuleai says.

"It's about forward thinking and trying to get alcohol right away from our kids. We've got to change that culture of drinking and sports that's been around forever."

The decision was made because of issues with drinking in Grey Lynn Park where antisocial behaviour, noise and litter have been the subject of frequent complaints from neighbours in the past three years, he says.

The club wants to bring the focus back to sport.

"Rugby league has been copping the stick for a long time and it's about time we're doing something positive.

"Someone has to take the lead. It's our performance on the field that is important and looking after the welfare of our players, kids and community."

The club will lose revenue from the bar but will save money by not needing to hire additional staff and extra security at the premises, Mr Fepuleai says.

Grey Lynn Residents Association chairman Dan Salmon says the decision to remove alcohol is a brave one.

The sports club has been working hard to foster relationships with other organisations in the area as well as the park's neighbours, he says.

"I think it's a big and bold step they've made to try and address those issues.

"I really hope they get support from the community and the club for doing it. It's definitely something to watch and hopefully other sports clubs around the country might follow."

Waitemata Local Board deputy chairwoman Pippa Coom says the club has made the decision with its future in mind.

"It's really courageous that they've done it. I know it is a difficult decision for them but I personally think they've really done the right thing."

Mr Fepuleai says the board is also pushing for new facilities at the Grey Lynn Park site and is starting a two to five-year business plan to increase membership with the aim of keeping Richmond going for the next 100 years.

The club wants to take part in the Grey Lynn Park Festival this year and will focus on selling healthy drinks and food at the clubrooms, he says.

"It's about the values and letting the kids know what is right and what is wrong.

"You can access alcohol anywhere. What's the big deal with not having it right in front of our kids' faces?"

Congratulations to Richmond Official Carol Redman who today was honored at the Auckland Rugby League Annual General Meeting for Distinguished Service to Rugby League. A well-deserved recognition which has been long overdue. Well done and congratulations once again Carol.  

Play rugby league in 2014, join a league club, learn to play rugby league, rugby league muster.

Schoolboys (4-18 years) & Seniors Muster

Muster at the Richmond Rovers Rugby League club rooms:
 Thursday 6th, 13th, 20th and 27th March

What to Bring
All players you can download, print and complete the player registration form and bring it along.
New players please also bring a copy of a birth certificate or passport.

The Richmond Rovers will be establishing even more junior restricted teams in 2014. A restricted team has maximum weight for players, this makes sure even the little guys can have a great time playing league without the concern of playing against physically much larger kids. To give you an idea the restricted grades last season are listed here.

Any questions?
Contact our club secretary Naomie on 021 106 3698, or just turn up on the day and we’ll be happy to help out with any queries you have.

Below is a list of Richmond Junior grade players who have secured opportunities in Australia for season 2014.

Faitotoa Faitotoa and Matthew Faitotoa - Newcastle Knights
Set up for a three year deal that will see them attend a High Performance Camp in January 2014 before they head to Ipswich State High where they will take up a scholarship that will see them join the Rugby League Academy and play for Ipswich in the Mal Meninga Cup before moving to Newcastle to join the NYC Squad in 2015.

Casey Lafaele - Penrith Panthers. 
Casey will attend Patrician Brothers Blacktown where he will join their Rugby League program while playing in the Panthers SG Ball side. The club has an option to extend Casey's time at the club for another year if he performs to expectation.

Tom Leota - Sydney Roosters. 
Will join the NYC Squad for 2014 with an option for an upgrade and extension depending on his performance in preseason.

Moses McGreal - Manly Sea Eagles. Moses will attend Narrabeen Sports High while playing SG Ball for Manly. He also will be given an opportunity to join the NYC Squad subject to his performance over the SG Ball season.

Michael McKinnon - Kingsgrove Colts/ Feeder club
Michael has undergone a shoulder reconstruction however he has secured an opportunity to play for Kingsgrove Colts in the Ron Massey Cup under new head coach and former New Zealand international Jeremy Smith. If Michael is able to make a successful comeback and play some good footy we hope to have him join a club for NYC preseason in 2014/2015.

By Jess Lee of Stuff.co.nz

Months of hard work and sacrifice have paid off for the Richmond Rovers side who were crowned champions at the Auckland Rugby League under-20 grand final.

Richmond trounced Papakura 32-18 at Cornwall Park on Sunday allowing them to finish their impressive season at the top of the table.

Coach Luisa Avaiki says the newly crowned champions are ecstatic with the win.

It was a slow start for the central Auckland side, with Papakura coming out firing to take the first two tries.

But as soon as Richmond had their first points on the board the winners' medals were as good as theirs, Avaiki says.

"They have worked really hard for this and have sacrificed a lot since we started pre-season training in November last year.

"We set ourselves some goals and we've reached them."

This is the first time in more than four years the Grey Lynn club has been able to enter a team at this level of the competition.

Many of the players competed with last year's under-18s side and will now be looking to move further up the ranks next year.

Not only are our Richmond Rovers Rugby league club Senior teams excelling in our Centenary Year, our Richmond teenagers are also very successful in 2013.  For the first time in several years Richmond has 4 teenage teams in the Top 4, competing for the Championship Titles.
 
Congratulations to our U20s, U18s, U16s and U16s and U14s players, coaches and managers. We are proud of you all- all the very best for the Semifinals. 2013 is turning out to be a Golden Year in so many ways.

Read more here

We still need to see some more volunteers come forward! Although a FREE Event always room for more.

There is still room to perform, If you know of anyone wanting to perform, sing, dance provide some free entertainment & give back to our mighty club then holla back at us.

We need to ensure we have a magical day for our young ones, the future of this club. We have over 2,500 followers on our Facebook page. Our flyer is going live on radio stations and Richmond will attract some heavy numbers on the Queens birthday Monday.

Come on ladies and gents let us know where you can help or what you can offer or donate what can you do to give back to junior players feel free to Private Message the team. Any thoughts and ideas, Gifts towards Prizes on games and activities would be greatly appreciated.

Tuesdays and Thursday . 6.30-8.00pm rain or shine

Turn up on time, warm up as a team, do your dynamic stretches properly to prepare for the season. Do the business like you are professionals. The more efficient we are at trainings, the more efficient and purposeful we will be at game time.

Richmond Academy
Thanks Lui for being Head Coach for Richmond Academy this year. Very well done to all those boys (about 10 from under 20s) who have been training consistently with Academy since November last year. You guys will reap those rewards this year. You will find you are fitter, faster, stronger and more able to learn and apply new skills and plays. You need to keep pushing yourself at team trainings and during games so you get even better and those around you also become better. That way as a team, we wll become a strong and fit unit with no limits to what we can do this season. 

Titans NRL experience
Great work, Jaedyn, Samson, Keneti, Matt, Lllewis and Ley for representing our team and club very well at Titans this year. All boys had the inspiring opportunity to live the NRL experience. All will tell you that Academy really helped prepare them physically and mentally for the hard training and expectations – on and off the field. The boys had a thoroughly awesome, valuable and rewarding experience. 

Richmond Premiers crossfit challenge
Thanks to Fahren, Lousi, Julian and Jordan who represented our under 20s in the crossfit challenge at Les Mills last month. It was a very early start (6.30am), it was tough and our team did really well, coming in 3rd and 4th overall. It was an awesome morning and great to take part in fitness workout with our seniors, thanks boys!

MAINTENANCE AND CLEAN UP OF YOUR RICHMOND ROVERS RUGBY LEAGUE CLUB 
The next Richmond Working bee date: Waitangi Day, Wednesday 6th February 2013.

The following needs to be done ASAP. If you are able to assist with a contact person who may be able to help or if you would like to volunteer yourself then please get in touch with us.

1.   Materials, 4x2 & many other lengths need to be sourced
2.   Particle sheets to block up Changing Room Windows
3.   Nails
4.   Staples to be removed from building exterior - need pliers
5.   Railings to be fixed
6.   Guttering to be fixed
7.   Roof to be fixed
8.   Rubbish, Glass & Leaves to be removed
9.   Canteen- Concertina Window to sourced and be reinserted
10.  Main Hall Windows to be replaced with Colonial Style Doors
11.  Water Blasting of outside club/concrete
12.  Gardens
13.  Security Lights
14.  Changing Rooms/Lighting
15.  Showers
Plus any other notable repairs!!!

Could we all please  follow up all our contacts, friends and families for the next Richmond Working Bee. Target Tradesmen please and advise them to please bring their equipment with them or any donated materials would be most appreciated. We are still looking for Ply/Particle Board as well as lengths of 4x3 etc for Railings plus nails and what ever else building materials are needed.

IF OVERSEAS & WANTING TO HELP OUT
If you would like to assist and you are overseas your best way to assist would be to join the 100 CLUB. Click here for more info on how you can help by becoming a 100 CLUB member.

Richmond Prems  THROWDOWN is all good to go with x12 teams all registered and amping. A BIG  THANK YOU to all those supporting the cause and looking foward to the Richmond  Pride being pushed to its potential on Feb 16th.

We also want to thank those Richmond Junior Teams, and other Sports teams/clubs who were willing to support the cause. Our Priority was first & foremost our RICHMOND SENIORS. Hopefully later down the track prior to the Season commencing we can organise another event.

Below are the teams who will be competing. Team Captains, I would strongly recommend bringing your team every Sat mornings to the Senior Pre Season camp, 7am, Les Mills-CrossFit HPU (Victoria St). This will allow an insight into the types of exercises expected, as the programme and rules will only be given out on the day of Event by Mark Michaels (Prems Head trainer).

1.    Richmond Roses,
2.    Richmond Uso.s,
3.    Richmond Ali'is,
4.    Richmond  Tokes,
5.    Richmond U/20's,
6.    Tag Samoa Open Mens
7.    Tag Samoa  Mixed,
8.    Richmond Prems/Resvs,
9.    Richmond Prems/Resvs,
10.   Ricmond Prems/Resvs,
11.  Richmond Prems/Resvs,
12.   Richmond  Prems/Resvs

*REMINDERS*
- Competing Teams Need to be  @ Les Mills Car Park 0630am for De-Brief
- Please have Team Rego Fee to Molly  (team manager) before Feb 9th. $40 per team.
- Richmond Throwdown Games will  commence @ 7am sharp.
- We strongly encourage to bring your families and  teams for support. Any children, Please DO NOT let them run around Venue for  safety reason's.
- Each team to provide their own Water,
- Bring Work Out  Towel & Runners,

* VERY IMPORTANT*
- Team Captains, this will be a WORK OUT session, so please make sure your Players have no serious medical conditions or injuries. Its a team building event, lets have some serious fun with out any issues.

"Richmond THROWDOWN Programme"
0630am - Team(s) debrief
0700am - Games commence
0800am - Games finish (Prize giving)
0830am - Sausage Sizzle & Light Refreshments @ Victoria Park (playground area)

Thank you to Steven Glucina from LJ Hookers, Ponsonby for his $1,000 donation. Late last year, Liz Ah Kuoi recommended Steven to the Yandall family, who then appointed Steven as their preferred real estate agent, Steven wrapped up the sale on 24 Dec, and he paid $1000 to our Richmond Rovers Rugby league club from his already favorably priced commission- as per Steven’s promise to give the Club $1000 for every referral that leads to a sale. So if you or someone you know is planning to sell your home please make contact with Steven Glucina and let him know your from the Richmond Rovers club.

A special thanks must go out also to Liz for making the referral, and also more importantly the Yandall family for selecting and entrusting Steven with selling their family home and thereby benefiting the Club with $1000, and of course Steven for donating $1000 to us.

In 2013, the Richmond Rovers rugby league club hope to cater to all our junior and senior members. Auckland Rugby League have confirmed the following grades and weight. For more information please contact us. Click here to read here.

Grade Weight Allowance (Up to)
U/6 Restricted 25 Kgs
U/7 Restricted 30 Kgs
U/8 Restricted 35 Kgs
U/9 Restricted 40 Kgs
U/10-11 Restricted 47 Kgs
U/12-13 Restricted 60 Kgs
U/14-15 Restricted 70 Kgs
U/16-17 Restricted 80 Kgs
Colts Restricted (18-20) 85 Kgs
Open Age Restricted 85 Kgs

RICHMOND ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
The Richmond Rovers Rugby league club warmly invites all paid social and club members to the end of 2012 Annual General Meeting.
When: Monday 17th December 2012, 6pm
Where: Richmond Rovers Rugby league club
Who: Richmond paid social and club members, and supporters
Why: Full presentation of audit results including financial reports. Have your say on the Richmond club for 2013. Paid social and club members will have the ability to nominate and elect the 2013 Richmond committee.

RICHMOND ROVERS RUGBY LEAGUE COACHING AND DEVELOPMENT

Congratulations to the following coaches who have completed Course requirements.
Beginner Min Mod Course
Michael CHAN TING, Patrick MAUGATUTIA, Kurt ENSOR, Patrick TAMATI, Willie UALIKA, Joe LUNDON, Sali WATCH, Chloe KAISER, Kyla KAISER-DAY, Henry NICHOLAS, Junior FIU, Peter AH KUOI
Beginner Youth Course
Junior FIU, Peter AH KUOI, Faavae KALOLO, Darren OKESENE, Luisa AVAIKI, Russell McKINNON
Beginner Senior Club Coach
Junior FIU, Faavae KALOLO, Luisa AVAIKI
ARL Referees Course
Micahel CHAN-TING, Faavae KALOLO, Ricky WILLIAMS, Sali WATCH, Peter AH KUOI

AUCKLAND RUGBY LEAGUE AWARDS
 A great accomplishment and well deserved achievements for all involved and to the recipients.
* Congratulations to Mose Newton who was awarded Auckland Rugby League Under 18s Best and Fairest Player of the Year.
* Congratulations to Liz Ah Kuoi-Atmore who was awarded Auckland Rugby League International Grade Under 18s Manager of the Year.
* Congratulations to Fue Lomi who was awarded Auckland Rugby League Premier 2nd Best and Fairest Player of the Year.

RICHMOND ROVERS RUGBY LEAGUE REPRESENTATIVES
Congratulations to the following on their appointments to Auckland representative teams:
Regional Representative Challenge Staff Appointments
Northern Region
Under 13 Grade - Coach - Darren OKESENE
Under 18 Grade - Coach - Luisa AVAIKI /Assistant Coach - Liz AH KUOI
Under 13 Northern Regional Trialists
Arthur FRASER, Carlos HENRY, Dylan TAVITA, Mikey WILLIAMS, Harris ROPATI-JONES, Nathan NGAROPO, Sam TOFA-TIMOTEO
Northern Regional Under 13 Representatives
Hayes OKESENE, Carlos HENRY, Dylan TAVITA, Mikey WILLIAMS
Akarana Falcons Under 17
Manager - Anita SIMTH-McKINNON
Akarana Falcons ZONE Under 17 Trialist
Toafofoa SIPELY, Kenneth LAFAELE, Michael McKINNON, Timothy SMITH, Joshua IOANE, Tom LEOTA, Aaron BIDDLE, Taniela LEKA, Sitiveni AIPOLO, Mitchell SMITH, Isaac WALKER, Eruera KEREOPA, Eddy PAOTAMA, Jake ROPATI, Fred MULLER (Playing U18's)
Akarana Falcons Zone U15 Hearts Camp Trialist
Isaac AH KUOI-ATMORE
NZ Womens Rugby League Kiwi Train On Squad
Annabelle HOHEPA, Charlotte ARNOPP-SCANLAN, Lisa CAMPBELL
Amber HALL, Tasha TAPU, Charmaine McMENAMIN

Congratulations for Representative Selection
Akarana Flacons Zone Under 15's
Isaac AH KUOI-ATMORE
Akarana Falcons Zone Under 17's
Joshua IOANE. Kenneth LAFAELE, Michael McKINNON, Toafofoa SIPLEY
Auckland North V Auckland South Under 16 Trialist
Scott TOFA-TIMOTEA, Otineru LIO, Jamon PEAU, Casey LAFAELE, Nathaniel ROACHE, Kuramate TE IRIRANGI-HENRY, Mataio TIMALOA
Mathew MOKOROA, Bradley ABBEY, Bhailee DEAN, Tyrone KANUTA, Hikairoa WETERE
Auckland North V Auckland South Under 18 Trialist
Keneti AH KUOI-ATMORE, Mathew FEPULEAI, Edwin TAFEAMALI'I, Samisoni VAIOLETI, Tamuta MATAORA, Jordan WALL, Julius VAETARU
Mose NEWTON, Eddy POTAMA, Fahren FRUEAN, Julian CLUBB, Jaedyn TAIMALIETANE, Louis CLUBB, Robert LIAI
Auckland North Prem 2 Regional Challenge Trialist
Lomia LOMI, Debarres NEEMIA, Roni TUKIUHA, Steve VAIHU, Elia FUE, Justin LAKATANI, Leon LATOA, Fili LIVA, Gau LOMI, Fue LOMI, Losua LOMI, John MANA, Charlie NOO, Tar PEILUU, Semese SOMONA, Cornelius TALAGI, Marcus TANIUA, Derek TIMINIS, Luaer VAIHU
Auckland North U16 Regional Representative
Casey LAFAELE
Auckland North U18 Regional Representative
Keneti ATMORE-AH KUOI, Louis CLUBB, Julian CLUBB, Matthew BRUCE-FEPULEAI, Tamuta MATAORA, Mose NEWTON, Edwin TAFEAMALII, Jaedyn TAIMALIETANE, Julius VAETARU, Samisoni VAIOLETI, Ley VANO, Serevasio VETENIBUA
Auckland North Prem 2nd Regional Representative
Justin LAKATANI

The Richmond Premiers played the SAS Sharman Cup competition leaders the Papatoetoe Panthers at there home ground. With a mixed week of training due to injuries there were the three players who pulled out for various reasons. No trouble as there was adequate cover from our developing and always pressing Premier 1st grade team. The Premiers did get out 17 players with inclusion of our Auckland Vulcan players: Aaron Nootai and Warriors full time contracted player Ivan Penehe. The Richmond team were hoping there experiences from the Auckland Vulcans would rub off to the other 15 players.

Missed first up tackles, forced errors in our half and penalties allowed Papatoetoe Panthers to a handy 22-12 lead going into the 
break. The second half started well with the Premiers scoring two tries to Aukuso & Toleafoa Leaupepe with one conversion to make the score 22-22 with 25 minutes remaining. Dropped balls, lack of respect for the ball and referee allowed Papatoetoe to go on a scoring spree with three unanswered tries with only 1 kick over making the score 36-22 with ten minutes left in the game. Richmond were its our own worst enemy losing the ball in the first tackle  and in there own half. Defence was sound for the remainder of the game. Richmond built up some pressure in which outside back Edwin Pita scored crossing over to take the score to 36-26. With  seven minutes remaining  Richmond ran the ball on  the last  tackle down the blind side. Ivan managed to get some ground and before  being flung over the side line he flicked the ball back into the hands of  Captain Mia Tautiga who  went over to score untouched. Aukuso converted the try  to take the score to 36-32 still to  the Panthers. 

The Panthers took there time returning the ball back for kick off. As the home team kicked off the hooter  sounded for full time. Richmond earned a penalty as the Panthers defence were  well in front of the kicker. Aaaron Nootai kicked the ball out to gain another  20 metres. The Premier boys knew the last stoppage will be full time so decided  to tap the ball and passed it from one side of the field to the other. Utility  player Josh Sioasi found a gaping whole on the edge in which he drew in his  winger and passed to Ivan who sprinted down the line to score an awesome try in  the corner. So this made it 36 all with the kick to come. This unfortunately was missed however the boys showed a lot of character and belief.

Special mention to Ivan Penehe, Aaron Nootai who put the extra effort in. Also an honourable mention for Fia who was brought into this game from the Premier 1st and helped us.

Richmond 11s 38 – Hibiscus Coast 0
Went up to Stanmore Bay, and played Hibiscus Coast came away with a fantastic win and held the defence all the way through the game. Solid performance from the whole team. Way to go Richmond Top Dogs!!

U13 v Otara Braves: Won 80-0
After getting schooled last week by Mt Wellington, we worked hard on our dummy half running and line defence. This seemed to work for us and had Otara in trouble by half time (48-0). Dylan Tavita had an outstanding game at right centre as well as his wing man Nathan Ngaropo. They scored hat-tricks as did Hayes Okesene and Dylan converted 12 of 14 tries.
The left side had a pretty quiet day as all the play happened on our right side. The whole team played well and could see combinations developing nicely. There were also strong performances by Mikey Williams, Carlos Henry, Sam Tofa-Timoteo, Ezael Tautuki and Immanuel Ualika.
Still more to work to do on Tuesday and Thursday.
Player of the Day: Dylan Tavita
Best Forward: Hayes Okesene  
Best Back: Nathan Ngaropo
Coach's Award: The Team

Under 12s at Bay Roskill, 14/4/2012  Richmond 34 Bay Roskill 22
The Rovers started off the game in grand fashion, scoring three quick tries through the rampaging forward pack and our speedy back line.
To the Vikings credit, they rallied after Richmond's poor ball control and tied the game through strong running through their fullback.
An upset looked likely as          the Viking scored two more tries however Richmond countered when Jacob Taupau made a great defensive goal line tackle, jarring the ball loose and then running the ball all the way down to the opposing 10 yard line. The Rovers scored from here and Vito Tevaga & Denzel Gaoa-Tolua scored tries to put the game beyond doubt.
POD-Terekia - for his great defensive work & leading the attack from dummy half.

vs Howick, 21/4/2012 Richmond 30 Howick 8
Richmond learnt its lessons last week about poor ball control and controlled the game from the outset with Terekia & Zion Pereweti marshalling the forwards well. Our big forwards ran hard all day and our possession was great. JJ Tuiallii ran hard all day while Vito Tevaga scored multiple tries and the return of our Tongan Terror, Simi Latu saw him score two tries. Darius Lavakula played a solid game in attack & defence. He is a model of consistency.
POD- Vito Tevaga
Awards: Darius JJ in the forwards
Backs Terekia, Zion
Written by:  Toa Sagapolu

Under 10s – Match Report
Well done to the kids that played on Saturday. We played against Manurewa. Score was 24 – 16 to them.  It was good to see the new players stepping up and running the ball.  Player of the Day went to Toni Samuela who played really well, and wasn’t afraid to get in and get the ball.  A good effort was also shown by Jaedin and Jeannette.  Well done.
Also a big thank you to all the teams and club supporters who came and supported our cake stall.  It was a huge success and we manage to raise $407.00 for our team.  Once again thank you.
Thanks Under 10s Management

Under 9s
Solid game team played well, and we went down by 1 try final score went to Marist at 32-28.
Player of the Day – Joseph Kau
Runner up – Kobe Kaiser-Day
Top Tackler – Andre Luamata and Sione Vaihu

** Free Mini-Mod Referees Course **
 • Mini & Mod Referees Course (Wednesday 25th April), Richmond Clubrooms from 1pm - 4pm. Bring own whistle, pen and paper to take notes.
 • Names of officials/parents or players (U16s, 17s & 18s) who wish to participate by this coming Thursday, 19th April for confirmation of numbers. Ideally, it would be best if we had 2-3 participants from each grade to undergo this Course.
 • Sausage sizzle will be provided at the conclusion of the course.
 • Note: This is a 3 hour course and it is FREE
 See Sali Watch on training nights to register

RICHMOND MATCH REPORTS
Under 9s: Richmond 8 – Te Atatu 48

Under 8s: Draw 16 all with Te Atatu

Under 9s: Richmond 8 – Te Atatu 48

Under 10s: Richmond 24 – 4 win.  Played against Pt Chev.
On Saturday the kids had a really good game.  They played hard and really played as a team.  It was good to see lots of kids improving and using some of the ball skills and moves that they are practising at training.  Our new players in the team had some really good runs and also made some excellent tackles.  Congratulations to Mareco Mafoe who was our player of the day.  Mareco played an excellent game, scoring almost a 100 metre runaway try.  Well done Mareco.  I would also like to mention Josh and Matt Thompson, Terryn Duzevich and Connor Tapu who also played really well today.  Well done team and keep up the awesome work. 
Thanks Under 10s Management.

Under 13s: Played Mt Wellington and had a loss 30-12.
We played perhaps the best team in the competition and came away 2nd but a lot wiser. The first half we had hardly any ball and when we did, it was deep in our half and struggled for any ground. It doesn't help when you have three penalties and they don't find the line. The second half, we had a change of tactics and scored the next two tries. Dylan Tavita converted both and one from out wide. In the end, the effort to tackle in the first half and poor field position took its toll. Learnt a lot about our game and some changes to be made at training.
POD: Nelson Lagiono
BF: Hayes Okesene
BB: Nathan Ngaropo
Coaches Award: Cullen Tanoa & Ezael Tautuki

Richmond 15s- Sat 21 April v Manukau at Grey Lynn Park.
In our first home game of the season, the pressure was on after our heavy loss the week before.  We did a lot of work during the week on defence and staying tight as a team, and our Richmond Junior Academy Coaches, Junior Fiu and Peter Ah Kuoi, also helped us out with their awesome coaching skills.
The boys started well and stuck to the game plan throughout.  This paid its rewards, as the forwards ran effective ruck plays which opened up space for our backs.  Even better was that our backs responded to the call to show courage on defence.  Centre Mitchuel Elima in particular didn’t miss a tackle and made many dummy half runs, while stand-off Logan Mansson topped the tackle count.  4 tries later, Richmond went into halftime leading 18-4.
The second half saw Manukau make a comeback.  As our fitness slowed, Manukau made more inroads.  However, the boys kept making the tackles that counted.  We dropped down to 12 players on the field and Manukau got a couple of late tries just to keep the coach’s heart beating more than normal, but we ran out winners 22-20.  Credit to the boys for staying tight and working hard as a team.  This was a 116 point turn-around from last week’s game (probably will be a Richmond record for the season !).  Players of the day were centre Mitchuel Elima and blockbusting hard-running prop Toru William.

Under 16s: won 48-6 against Manukau. Great start to the season... some nice touches from the halves, leading to some good team tries... congrats to our 4 new boys making there debuts for us - Ara, Khaleb, Sam & Paxton, we look forward to seeing you guys developing over the season... Otherwise we still got lots of room for improvement, see ya all down at the CAGE next Tues... The coaching staff would also like to congratulate both Jamon & Casey on there games last nite for the St Pauls 1st 13, get better soon Casey its still a long season & a great effort by Jamon on backing up less than 24hrs later to help the team out today.

* Click here for this week’s draw, and below is some shared match reports.
* JCB BBQ duties and support, 7 home games so there should be plenty officials on hand to help out.
* Field set up, reminder International grades are to set up and rope up their own field and the last team playing on that field is to pack up and tidy up the field.
* Reminder Mini/Mod Referee’s course held at Richmond on Anzac Day, FREE Course Register with Sali Watch!!
* WORKING BEE – Richmond Busy Bee is also on Anzac Day – Looking for Volunteers to assist in clean up, painting and other various duties around the club!

Field Set Up
Field Set up – Grey Lynn Park # 2, Set up by U13s and packed away by U15s
Field set up – Grey Lynn Park # 1, Set up by U18s and packed away by Premier Tokes

Changing Sheds and Rubbish
* All teams are to tidy up after themselves once finished using the changing rooms, rubbish and strapping please sue the bins.

Good Luck to ALL RICHMOND GRADES, “Bite em Bulldogs” – All Day!!

RICHMOND MATCH REPORTS
U13’s v Otara Saints: Won 44-16
The first game of the year and we had a nice win. Everyone played well and tried real hard but our general play was a bit patchy. A promising start to the season and will get better as the season progresses. A lot of standout performances, in particular Hayes Okesene, Carlos Henry and Dylan Tavita were a handful to contain. Dylan showed what a great kicker he is, landing conversions from the side-line. Not far off them were Sam Tofa-Timoteo, Immanuel Ualika and Mikey Williams who were huge. A lot to work on this week but expect a big improvement next week….can’t wait!
Player Of the Day = Hayes Okesene
Best Forward = Carlos Henry
Best Back = Dylan Tavita
Coach’s Award = Nelson Lagiono

Under 12s
Light winds, faint showers and a blotch of sun were the conditions on game day.  Perfect conditions according to some.  Upon arrival the boys anticipated a good game but at the same time, mixed with nerves and excitement – especially now playing on international regulated fields.  The team also faced a little dilemma, learning we were without two more players which left us with one reserve.  However this did not phase them, it only made them more determined.
Terekia led the pack as Captain.  First half could only be summed up as a shock to the boys system.  Running on an even larger field made them realize what the coaches had been singing during preseason trainings.  The truth of getting fit, absorbing the drills and applying them into game situations were all put into perspective.
Te Atatu kicked off first - ball bounced in the hands of Zion and passed into the waiting arms of Denzel who stormed up to the awaiting Glenora defence.  It took a little while for the boys to settle into position, but that was expected – slowly and surely.  Opening try was scored by the Bears, but conversion, unsuccessful.  This motivated the boys to kick it into gear and retaliated by scoring a try of their own – scored by Denzel and converted by Zion Perawiti.  At this time we lost Floyd to a badly sprained ankle and had to be replaced with our one and only reserve Ford Hamiora. First half 6-4 to Richmond.

Second half saw the boys step it up a little bit more.   Glenora also picked up the pace by tackling and attacking all day.  With Glenora’s full squad of players and bench, our chances of walking out with a win were slim.  But lo and behold, the hungry Richmond spirit prevailed – the boys persevered over these odds.  Our mighty little players Terekia, Zion Perawiti, Ford and Zed played like GIANTS, never fearing the size of the opposition.  Our second rowers and props had a massive input, running hard yards, at times with hand brakes.  Once momentum was found, the boys quickly took advantage and scored another try – Jacob and converted by Vito – followed by another try by Vito, but conversion unsuccessful. Terekia led the team by example and did a great job as Captain Fearless.
Congratulations to Player of the Day – Zion Perawiti. Thank you to Denzel’s family for supplying the goody bags – U12s are very spoilt. Also thank you to Sui and Richard for sponsoring the P.O.D – we really appreciate it.

Under 11s
We had an awesome win on Saturday.  We played against Ellerslie and taking our first win 50-10. Outstanding players were Angelo Te Ao, and Antonio Wulf.  Antonio also showed excellent tackling skills during the game. Player of the Day went to the whole team for an excellent turn out, great sportsmanship and outstanding game plan. It was also great to see great parent support. Thanks Angel

Under 10s: Richmond 08 - Bay Roskill 36
On Saturday we had a first game playing mod rugby league.  It was a huge experience for our team, playing on a bigger field.  Our team played really well considering we had a mix up with fields and team we were meant to play.  We played against Bay Roskill under 10s and went down to them.  Our player of the day went to Tipene Butler who play an outstanding game.  Also like to mention these players who played very well was Terryn Duzevich, Wiremu Pihema and Riccardo Nicholas.  Well done team for giving it your best on Saturday.  Thanks Under 10 Management.

Under 9s: Richmond 20 – Ellerslie 32
1st game back, with new players onboard who are all full and eager to get on and play, a great game for all and with some real improvements coming through from players, we just need to stop bunching up and start getting use to using the whole length of the field. Ellerslie forward pack was too strong on attack for us and came away with the win. Coach Joe has been teaching our players some great drill work and game plan techniques so the players are introducing these new skills in the game.
Top Tackler – Scott McKinnon
Player of the Day - Mose Tuialii
Runner Up – Sione Vaihu

Please ensure you take a note, absorb all of the below information, pass on any relevant information to your parents especially regarding SUPPORT for the 1st CLUB social see details below.
* Thursday, 5 April (today) - Distribution of gears. Managers to sign for gears issued between 5pm - 6pm (please collect today)
* Thursday, 12 April - Coaches and Managers meeting from 6.15pm - 7.30pm - all to attend
* Saturday, 14 April - Mini/Mod and International Grades commence
* Saturday, 14 April - Club Social (Adults) - $5.00 entry, all Junior officials (ie Coaches, Asst Coaches, Managers, Asst Managers, Trainers etc) to support.  For the team that has the most parent support at the Club Social, a bar tab will be arranged.

The mouthguards have arrived and will be issued to team managers for players who have paid their fees as at 3 April 2012.  Any player who pays their fees this evening will be issued their mouthguard after signing the necessary paperwork. Drink bottles will be distributed to team managers for players who have paid their fees either part payment or full and issued on Thursday 12th April during training times.  Managers to collect. Shorts and socks will be available for sale Tuesday & Thursday evenings, commencing Thursday, 10th April from 5pm - 6.15pm. Sorry, no sales on Saturday mornings.

Junior mouthguards - Grades Under 6s - U10s
Youth mouthguards - Grades Under 11s - 15s
Adult - Grades Under 16s up
All mouthguards $5.00 - Saturday mornings to be sold at the Richmond Canteen

See you all at training.
Richmond COMS

By Tere Strickland Jnr.
THE Richmond Rovers 100 Club is looking to expand on its membership numbers in season 2012, with the call going out for all ex-players to sign up to the 100 CLUB and help support the club. Entering its first year, the club already has 36 ex-players and officials on the books, but Gus Fepuleai has urged more people to get involved.  “Our purpose is to foster and develop rugby league at the Richmond club, and more particularly, foster and develop the Junior Richmond Rovers Rugby League along with the Richmond Rovers senior grade teams,” Fepuleai said. “Now that we have got everything down pat from the legal and documentation side, we held a further meeting prior to Christmas to discuss our plans for this year. “We are holding a sign-up day at the Richmond Club on Friday, March 9 from 7pm as part of the Richmond club website launch. “The membership fee is a $100 one-off payment and for this members will receive a quality 100 Club t-shirt along with a 2012 Richmond Club membership card. “We want to encourage any old boys out there to come along and more importantly bring a friend, the evening will be very informal, just a few drinks and footy talk.” Fepuleai hoped the club might grow in number to 60 after the sign on day, adding they have several social events planned during the season, with the first Richmond Club social set down after the Richmond Rovers second home game of the season against Mangere East Hawkes on Saturday 21 April.

“We are looking at the club as a way to get old football friends together and have a good social time, but also to provide some game day and off the field support to the club by way of increasing numbers to local games and providing financial support where we can,” he said. Fepuleai said money raised from the club’s clothing range will be put back into the junior and senior clubs, with the scope of starting a football scholarship down the line for talented players.

For more information about the Richmond Rovers Old Boys Club ring Gus Fepuleai on 027 222 3403 or Adam Butler on 021 1328 321. Click here to BECOME A 100 CLUB MEMBER TODAY!

A much welcomed surprise visit to the Richmond Club from former RIchmond Premier grade player and current Manly Sea Eagles NRL Champion (2009 and 2011) Steve Matai.

Playing the Vodafone Warriors in Round 1 the visiting Richmond player attended the Richmond Youth Development and Training Programme and spoke highly of his time with the Richmond Club. Many of the Richmond boys enjoyed having the former Mt Albert Grammar player at training to share some thoughts and pass on some advice to the next generation of Richmond juniors coming through the Richmond club.

From the management team at Richmond we thank Steve Matai for taking the time out of his busy schedule to show his passion for the Richmond Club. BECOME A 100 CLUB MEMBER TODAY!