Rugby forges school friendships

• Published date: 12 April 2024
• Author: Paul Williams
• Publication title: Horowhenua Chronicle

Four years ago former Te Aute College’s Dr James Graham and Horowhenua College’s Chris Wilton organised a rugby exchange between their two schools, to be played on a home and away basis for the Keretana Trophy

At the time, participation in rugby at Horowhenua College had waned. The early season fixture had proven to be the genesis for a rugby renaissance at the school, with a U15 team now playing too.

Wilton said it was as much about reviving schoolboy rugby and forging a connection between the two schools as it was celebrating what rugby can do for young people.

“Firstly it’s about the joining of our two colleges and we are humbled to have them here, but it is also about the revival of schoolboy rugby and everything that goes along with that,” he said.

“It can give pride in themselves, pride in their school, and pride in this new relationship. They really look after us when we go...