Their journey began with the Auckland Rugby 7s tournament, where the girls took second place after losing the final 14-7 to Mount Albert Grammar School (MAGS).
Despite the defeat, their strong performance qualified them for the National tournament.
Held at Mount Maunganui for the first time, the tournament featured 18 girls’ teams from across the country vying for the coveted title of national champions.
The girls exhibited their dominance throughout the pool play on Saturday, triumphing over Whangarei girls 54-5, St Marys Auckland 48-0, Waimea College 59-0, and Christchurch Girls 25-0.
Their impressive Saturday run set the stage for a high-stakes Sunday, where the team faced a do-or-die quarter final match against Hamilton Girls High School emerging victorious with a solid 22-7 win.
This was followed by a sensational 26-12 semi-final win against MAGS to take them through to the finals against defending champions, Manukura.
Howick College put up a good fight against the formidable Manawatu team but ultimately lost 33-19.
Despite the outcome, the girls were one of the competition’s favourite teams, representing their college, their families and their community with pride.
Coach Waisake Sotutu, former Fijian Rugby Union player, says he is incredibly proud of the team’s achievement.
“The girls worked so hard in preparation, training four times a week and then games in the weekend. They know how to work hard, and they push hard – that’s what’s important in 7s – and their effort shows in the results,” Sotutu said.
“We aren’t a traditional rugby school, but we beat teams from the NZSS Girls 15 aside Top 4 competition!”
Looking ahead, Sotutu said, “We can expect even more from this young team as they mature as players.
“All 14 members contributed to the team and have gained some valuable experience, but we will grow more depth and be ready to have another crack next year.”
