Otago Touch Association – Under 16 Boys – 2019 Junior Nationals Preview


Winston Ward (Otago Boys), Blake Dodds (South O), Hamish Moore (Otago Boys), William Smillie (John McGlashan), Ben Smart (South O), Josh Whaanga (John McGlashan), Stanley McClure (John McGlashan, Tom Mitchell (Taieri), Orlando Tuhega-Vaitupu (Kings), Hamish Faulks (Otago Boys), Will Challis (Otago Boys), Caleb Dixon (John McGlashan), Oscar Sycamore (John McGlashan), Clayton Cochrane (South O), Angus Cameron (Kings), Scott Turner (Coach), James te Pairi (Assistant Coach), Maine Mareko-Johnson (Manager)

 

Draw Summary

Friday 9.40am vs North Harbour
Friday 11.40am vs Te Tai Tokerau
Friday 1.40pm vs Manawatu
Saturday 9.40am vs Hawkes Bay
Saturday 11.40am vs Turangi nui a Kiwa
Saturday 1.40pm vs Waikato
Saturday 3.40pm vs Auckland
Sunday 9.30am
Sunday 12.30pm

Tournament Preview

 “It’s going to be tough but tough times don’t last, tough people do.” - Victor Olidipo.
The quote embodies what mentally the boys need to have if we want to reach our potential in Rotorua. Our preparation has been up and down with the boys playing like a team pushing to win nationals, then having down weeks as young teams often can.

The most important goal for the team is to stay as a unit all tournament and play for one another. When Otago teams present a united front, and we have each other’s back we can achieve anything.
Positives within the squad is the strong leadership, selflessness of the team, and the brotherhood all the boys embody.

This is my first nationals as a coach and I am stoked to be a part of a team with such good young athletes who are willing to learn and have a desire to be the best. I will miss the first day of nationals for a family wedding however I cannot wait to get there on Saturday and help the boys push through.

Our final two pool games vs Auckland and Waikato are two games I’m looking forward to.  Our attacking progress has been very pleasing, and we are starting to let the ball rip, releasing long balls with deadly accuracy. Many of our players are developing as communicators, learning to take control when on the field. Tireless defenders who can read offense and pick the right options will ensure we remain competitive through each of the battles. Hearty play and taking ownership of our individual responsibilities is key to the u16 boys success.


Article added: Thursday 07 February 2019

 

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