It’s been a busy and exciting time across Community Rugby, with plenty happening on and off the field.

A huge congratulations to Waihora, who were the first club to claim silverware this season with a fantastic win over Ashburton Celtic in the Luisetti Seeds Combined Country Final.

We recently welcomed 170 girls to Lincoln University for our U16-U18 Development Camps , co-delivered with Matatū. It was an incredible two days of learning, growth, and fun — a great opportunity to support the next generation of female players. Next week, it’s the Under 15 Boys Development Camp at Shirley Boys’ High School, with 150 young players set to sharpen their skills and take their learnings back to their schools and clubs.

We've also held a Club Connect event, where 80 leaders from 35 clubs came together to hear from Tina Aldridge, National Club Lead, on the Future of Rugby Clubs report. Together, we workshopped ideas on how clubs can continue to adapt to the changing needs of our communities, to ensure rugby remains strong for generations to come. It was an inspiring evening, and a great reminder of the shared commitment we all have to the game, we’re definitely up for the challenge.

The season is heating up as we head into the business end of our senior competitions. The Bascik Transport Canterbury Metro Premier Men’s competition heads into playoffs this weekend, with some blockbuster matches on the horizon. Meanwhile, the Women’s Premier semi-finals are also on tomorrow, with the final to be played under lights next Friday night at Ngā Puna Wai.

As the intensity builds, let’s all do our part to make rugby a great experience for everyone — cheer on your club, celebrate good play, thank the referee, and most importantly, Keep it Positive.

It’s a massive weekend ahead, not just in our community, but on the international stage too, with proud Cantabrians wearing the black jersey across a number of teams. We’re incredibly proud of our Red and Black heroes representing our province with pride and passion.

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