An eventful Anzac weekend saw the College welcome the 1st XV squads from Scots College, Saint Andrew’s College, and Lindisfarne College to Auckland for the annual 2024 Presbyterian Schools Rugby Quadrangular Tournament. Being six years since Saint Kentigern last hosted, it was a pleasure to begin the rugby season with a tournament that connects the countrywide Presbyterian school network.

The first day of the tournament paired Scots College against Lindisfarne College, with the Scots boys edging the team from Hastings 24–22. Saint Kentigern played a fantastic game against Saint Andrew’s to convincingly win 52–14.

Following a quick recovery, the teams came together for a formal dinner in the Jack Paine Centre on the Wednesday night. Tables were mixed, enabling players from different teams to enjoy each other’s company in a relaxed, non-competitive environment. Players often reconnect in professional teams after leaving school, recognising the initial bond they formed at this tournament.

Wallabies Head Rugby Coach Joe Schmidt attended the dinner as a guest speaker, offering words of encouragement to the players. He deposited plenty of wisdom, reflecting that the most successful players he coaches are typically the hardest workers, not the most talented. He highlighted, “It’s really important to judge yourself on your effort, not on your outcome.”

The following day offered a rest from the field as teams attended the Howick Anzac Parade, paying their tributes to the brave soldiers who sacrificed their lives for our freedom.

On Friday, the bronze match saw Saint Andrew’s come from behind to take the win 30–22 from Lindisfarne. Saint Kentigern played Scots College for the cup, with the hosts extending their winning streak to seven years with a final score of 24-5.

Each team selected their player of the tournament to be awarded at the prizegiving before our visitors headed back to their home cities. From Saint Kentigern College, Sam Jancys; from Scots College, Reweti Ngarimu; from Saint Andrew’s College, Will Voice; and from Lindisfarne College, Reid Palmer.

Next year, our boys will travel to Lindisfarne in Hastings for the 35th annual tournament. Thank you to the organisers of this special tradition; we know its value reaches beyond the games themselves and invests in future players for New Zealand.

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