17/10/2025
Hauraki Māori Rugby League – Team of the Year
This team was exceptional -packed with talent, overflowing with heart, and driven by a passion that lit up every field they stepped onto. They didn’t just play the game -they lived the kaupapa.
Their sportsmanship was unwavering, both on and off the field. They carried our Tikanga me ngā uara with pride, showing deep respect for the kaupapa and for each other. Every tackle, every haka, every moment was backed by the strength of whānau who stood beside them, lifted them, and helped them rise.
They followed their coach with trust and pride, and in doing so, became a living example of what Hauraki Māori stands for. This team didn’t just represent -they inspired. They showed us what unity, commitment, and aroha can achieve.
🏆Jusdyce Penno
A leader of many. Jusdyce carries a presence that exudes confidence and wisdom. Relied on for structure, he was paramount in setting lines, distributing the ball, holding defensive shape, and maintaining calm in high-pressure moments. His athleticism stood out and drew attention from opposing teams. A composed and commanding captain.
🏆Manaaki Wihongi-Timothy
A gracious player who always did the mahi without ever seeking the spotlight. When the team needed him, he didn’t just step up -he lifted everyone with him. Watching Manaaki grow into his leadership role and apply it with humility was a highlight of the season.
🏆Keylan Taogaga
A true league player -strong, decisive, and reliable. Keylan set up sharp outside passes, shut down big attackers, and measured the team’s success by his own effort. His consistency and game sense made him a key figure in every match.
🏆Braxton Hewlett
A defensive coach’s dream. From the first whistle, Braxton charged ahead and shut down play after play. His heart and guts are what league is all about. Add agility and ball skills, and you have a well-rounded, relentless competitor.
🏆Ihaia Walters
One half of our dynamic duo. Ihaia is league-smart and physically unrelenting. If you need a ball carried into contact, he’s your guy. His strength and game awareness made him a dependable force throughout the tournament.
🏆Isaiah Walters
The other half of the dynamic duo. Isaiah meets every opponent - no matter their size -with a firm shoulder and strong back. League isn’t just a game to him, it’s his passion. He brings intensity, pride, and fearless commitment.
🏆Wetene Walters
The youngest of the Walters brothers, but no less fierce. Wetene has inherited a kete full of skills and heart. He runs it straight, takes the hits, and keeps coming. Every tackle, every run -he’s ready to challenge anything.
🏆Akiyah Mulrennan
A kotiro with fire in her feet and heat in her tackles. Akiyah brings passion, agility, and hunger to every moment. She’s driven like a seasoned athlete and plays with the kind of intensity that turns heads.
🏆Rhythm McAlister
Fun and easygoing -until the whistle blows. Rhythm is a 25-year-old bodybuilder in disguise, flashing a smile before taking down players twice his size. Defense with dimples, and a serious game to match.
🏆Riley Miller
Skilled and passionate, Riley is unafraid and eager to learn. He brings energy to every field, makes dependable metres, and continues to grow with each game. A player with heart and hustle.
🏆Tiare Matena
All go, no stop. Tiare is a big character in a little body -full of energy, agility, and vision. He sees plays unfold and has the drive to make them happen. A never-ending battery of work.
🏆Kade Hurley
If you don’t bring him down in the first five metres, you’ll need the whole team. Kade’s enthusiasm is infectious, and his willingness to learn stood out. A powerful runner with a bright future.
🏆Max Tauranga
Powerful and strong, Max delivers textbook wrap tackles that stop attackers cold. Once he finds his line, metres come easy. Always seeking improvement, Max made a big impact with his eagerness to refine plays and tactics.
🏆Mereaneta Wirihana-Ngataierua-Curry
Soft-spoken until she clicks -then she’s everywhere. Mereaneta steps in front of attackers, gets behind the ball, and brings the noise. She has the potential to be a very exciting player with a fearless edge.
🏆Cullum Burton
Speed and power wrapped in humility. Cullum prioritises team over self, always making sure others are included and empowered. On and off the field, he offers support and embodies true sportsmanship.
🏆Arlen Reneti
Quiet but never idle. Arlen was confident with the ball and comfortable in contact. He had strong runs and, once settled into the team, was always in the huddle lifting others up. A steady and supportive presence.
🏆Carter-Jay Ewart
League on legs. Carter-Jay’s passion and understanding of the game are undeniable. Quick to run the ball and wrap it up, he’s a pest in the best way. His instincts and energy make him one to watch.
🏆Marley Thornhill-Rangi
Full of energy and curiosity. Marley asked the best questions -and often had the answers. Always in the huddle, always enthusiastic. On the field, he made hard-earned metres and doubled up on defence. A vibrant contributor.
🏆Tyler Lowe
Strong, purposeful, and impactful. Tyler’s one-man defence held back powerful attacks, and his runs forced defensive lines to work overtime. A growing talent with the right mindset and physicality.
🏆Jesse Thompson
Shy at first, but once he opened up -a bubbly, goofy workhorse. Packed with speed, excellent ball skills, and an attacking GPS that led him straight to the tryline. Jesse used every opportunity to grow and showed what can be achieved through hardwork and discipline.
