New Brighton U85kg side are the proud recipients of a pallet of Moa Brewing’s finest frosty beer, after winning this year’s Canterbury RugbySouthern Alps Ultra U85kg tournament.

After witnessing the popularity and community U85kg rugby brought to the North Island, Steve Smith the Managing Director of Moa Brewing, had a huge interest in helping make the tournament in Canterbury a success. “I saw it flourishing in Auckland and I truly believe there’s a huge opportunity for the Canterbury region to do the same”.

Introducing the grade to Canterbury has brought up to 120players back to the code, which otherwise could have been lost said DenisCations Club Captain of New Brighton. “We knew we had a lot of guys that had played with our colts that weren’t going to come through and play premier reserve because they were too small, so we thought ‘let’s put a team together’”.

Not just for the young bucks who aren’t ready for prems, NewBrighton boasts an age range of 16-42 years in their U85kg squad with players returning to the code after being absent for ten or more years thanks to now having a more physically suitable grade for them to compete in.  “It brings people into the game as there wasn’t an opportunity for them at the time, or it keeps people in the game longer. That’s where I think the real benefit is”, said Smith. “Sociability is the key component to any sport. Making friends, connections, whether they’re in your team or another club and U85’s can lead the way in that”.

The lightweight lads in black and gold lifted the goldenSouthern Alps Ultra trophy after beating University of Canterbury’s BlackMambas 34-25. The final was hosted at Apollo Projects Stadium, and coach Dean Cations said the ability to play on the home field of Canterbury teams was extremely special for them, “They were fizzed to play at a big stadium. We could hear everyone yelling and screaming. It was pretty cool for us coaches too, walking out there had a different feel to it”.

The big question is, what will New Brighton do with their refreshing prize? “Thanks to Southern Alps and Moa Brewing, massive props to them” said Dean, “The boys will decide what they do with it, because they earned it aye…and I’ll have a few as well”.

Looking ahead, the tournament winners say they’re looking forward to other clubs getting involved, “I’ve spoken with a number of clubs, and they have tried but I think if clubs haven’t quite got enough, we’ve got to look at combining”, said Dennis. “I think it would be absolutely fantastic. It is a growth area for us, I know we’ve only just started it, but I think it’s got massive potential”.

We’re right there with you!

If you’re keen to get amongst the Southern Alps Ultra U85kg grade, speak to your club today and reach out to us here at Canterbury Rugby, we'd love to support you!

words by Hannah Yates

‍