Three weeks until Premier Club Rugby kicks off

A major clash between two of last year’s Jubilee Cup semi-finalists will mark the start of the premier club rugby season for 2020. 

Tawa and Oriental-Rongotai, both missed out on a place in the final, but will go head-to-head at Lyndhurst Park on March 21. 

On the same day, Old Boys University will be seeking redemption against Marist St Pats when they open the season with a hit-out at Evans Bay Park. 

Head of Community Rugby, Will Caccia-Birch, says this season is shaping up to be a showstopper from the very beginning.

“We’ve got some great rugby on the cards from the get-go. Some old rivalries will be hoping to start the season off with a win in the books.”

Week one of Premier Reserve rugby will also see Northern United and Petone repeat last year’s Ed Chaney Cup final at Porirua Park, and reigning Harper Lock Shield and HD Morgan Memorial Cup champions Marist St Pats, will play Old Boys University at Evans Bay Park.

Club Finals Day has been set down for Saturday, 25 July with more details around venues and matchups still to be announced. 

Remaining grades will kick off on Saturday, 4 April.

Caccia-Birch, says with the end of summer in sight, the anticipation for club rugby is building steadily.

“It’s a brilliant way to bring communities together and I know there are some very excited players, coaches and families out there ready to get stuck in.”

Pre-season events this weekend:

• Avalon Premier squad v Renwick Premier Squad, Fraser Park Artificial: kick-off at 2:30pm
• Petone Colts and Premier squad v Old Boys University Colts and Premier squad, North Park: kick-off at 11:30am
• Paremata-Plimmerton Premier v Hutt Old Boys Marist Premier, Aotea College: kick-off 1:00pm

For the Swindale and Harper Lock Shield draws click here.