At St Thomas of Canterbury College, rugby is more than a game – it’s about creating brotherhood by being part of something bigger than yourself. This sense of belonging and shared purpose is what makes our rugby culture so special. Our teachers and parents understand this deeply, and in 2025 we saw a surge in teachers stepping forward to coach and support teams, strengthening the connection between classroom and field.
This year brought exciting changes. Thanks to Mr Mark Ealey and the International GAS Programme, over 20 international students joined our kura. Their arrival injected fresh energy and talent into our rugby programme, helping us expand our senior teams from three to five. Beyond the game, these students added richness to the culture of the college, sharing their traditions, perspectives, and experiences, which strengthened our sense of community and global connection.
Participation reached new heights, with almost 45% of our boys playing rugby and a total of 11 teams representing the college. This depth of involvement reflects the strength of our rugby culture and the commitment of players, coaches, and families. A major factor in this year’s success was the increase in preseason preparation. From Week 2 onwards, nearly 100 junior players pushed their limits, committing to fitness, conditioning, and skill development. This early work set the tone for the season and gave our teams a competitive edge. Alongside this, specialist skill coaching was expanded, and its impact was clear – players demonstrated sharper execution and improved decision-making across all grades.
There were many milestones and highlights. Five teams made finals, showcasing the depth of talent across all grades. STC Hammett went undefeated throughout the season. The Colts reached the Section 1 Under-18 final, a huge achievement for this developing squad, while STC Teina dominated the junior section, losing only one game all season. We also introduced our first weighted team, The Brothers, a landmark moment for the school that ensures inclusivity and opportunity for all players to enjoy the game.
Both the 1st XV and 2nd XV continued to be in the hunt for the playoffs, showing the depth of talent in our programme. While both teams fell in the first week of finals, their performances reflected growth and resilience. We continue to build our programme with a clear focus on long-term success.
2025 saw a significant increase in representative players, marking a proud milestone for the college. Highlights include Neihana Mata’afa earning selection for New Zealand Māori U18 and Lautasi Etuale going back-to-back with New Zealand Schools honours. Our own Mr Kieran Coll continued to make an impact beyond STC, serving as a coach for the New Zealand Schools team, showcasing the calibre of coaching talent within our college. Other players also featured prominently in Canterbury age-group teams and Junior Crusaders squads, reinforcing STC’s growing reputation as a rugby powerhouse.
A huge thank you to our sponsors, the rugby committee, our coaches, managers, and parent supporters. Without your dedication and commitment, none of this would be possible. Your efforts ensure that rugby at St Thomas continues to thrive and provide opportunities for every boy to be part of something bigger than himself.
As we reflect on a season filled with achievement and growth, we also look forward to 2026 with excitement. With strong foundations, passionate players, and unwavering support, the future of rugby at St Thomas of Canterbury College is bright.
