Bringing rugby heroes to grassroots clubs
In a recent social media competition, Tuatahi First Fibre gave junior rugby clubs across the Waikato and Bay of Plenty the chance to win an unforgettable experience with the Gallagher Chiefs.
The competition, launched on 9 May, offered a unique opportunity for junior rugby clubs to connect with their rugby heroes through a skills session, and win 50 tickets to the Gallagher Chiefs vs. Hurricanes game on 24 May.
Te Awamutu Marist Junior Rugby Club beat dozens of other clubs to win this special prize. Chiefs players Samipeni Finau, Samisoni Taukei’aho, Xavier Roes, Kaleb Trask, Liam Coombes-Fabling ran a skills session, posed for photos and signed autographs at the club on Wednesday, 22 May.
“Tuatahi First Fibre is all about connecting people and communities, so we loved having the chance to connect grassroots rugby teams with their heroes from the Gallagher Chiefs,” said Tuatahi First Fibre Chief Executive John Hanna.
“It was awesome to see the smiles on the kids’ faces, and getting inspired by their favourite rugby players. That’s what it’s all about!”
Ranging in age from just three to 12 years old, the junior players were excited to hit the field with the Chiefs players. The Chiefs also signed posters and handed out Tuatahi First Fibre beanies, t-shirts, and temporary tattoos.
Junior club spokesperson Sophia Powell said feedback from the junior players and parents was overwhelmingly positive. “It was a real privilege to have the five Chiefs players visit and spend time with the kids and their families. Everyone loved the giveaways, and it was great to see so many kids out running around and just having a ball”.
