The countdown to the premier season is on, and while Pakuranga have a bye this weekend, the 2022 coaching group have named a 26-strong squad for what is set to be a big year. 

Returning to New Zealand at the end of last year, Premier Coach Cole Mooney has enjoyed getting immersed at the ‘ranga. 

“Everybody seems to have a tangible desire for success,” said Mooney. 

“Being hungry for success is one thing but to be hungry for work is the really important piece. This team and these players are keen to take responsibility for things, they want to live the values we’ve agreed on, they’ve been open to changes and taken to our preparation with real effort.” 

Mooney is supported by Director of Rugby Grant ‘Boof’ Henson, Brodyn Bevan and the recent addition of Glen Rowe in the coaching group. 

“We are a diverse team, but all bring something important to the table. Boof and I are really aligned but have some robust discussions, Brody is great, he brings a youthful energy and an education background which is valuable. 

“Glen comes from a professional coaching background, and he’ll focus on skills and working with our game drivers. Having him on board for those elements is great, but he’s also just a really good guy.” 

Good people are something the Mooney holds dearly and is reflected when he talks about what the team wants to achieve this season. 

“Winning is more than results. 

“Yes, on the field we want to perform, we want to be technically and tactically astute, but off the field we want to set standards. That’s really been driven by the players, their definition of success is having a positive influence in the club and the wider community. That is something they can look back on, regardless of results, and be proud of.” 

2022 marks the 100th year of the Gallaher Shield, which Pakuranga won in 2013. When asked if that adds motivation to the season, Mooney said they need to earn the right for it to motivate them. 

“The Gallaher Shield will have more relevance as we become more relevant. We need to aim for top eight, top four and that’s when you can start really thinking about it.” 

One thing that is bound to motivate players, not just within the premier squad, is the recent Super Rugby debut from club centurion Dwayne Polataivao. He will be one of two players, alongside Tau Koloamatagi, with Super experience in the premier team. 

“It makes the pathway come alive. With Dwayne being here, players can see it and that pathway becomes tangible. A number of players have big futures in front of them so its important they see that,” said Mooney. 

The 2022 Premier squad is; 

Forwards 

Jake Barfoot Sam Beere Sam Crichton 

Tevita Fifita Logan Groome Carter Hackett Moses Hafoka Sione Hifo Gallipoli Misileki Finbar Simpson Gafatasi Su’a Lepani Tuifagalele Salesi Tuifua Vaipueki Vaipulu 

Backs 

Polynesia Crichton Lantze Davids Aki Kaumavae Pita Melino Memphis Ngaruhe Dwayne Polataivao Fea Puamoto Aula Silipa Desmond Spooner Jamie Spowart Antonio Tupou Sean Wilkie 

Unavailable due to injury Sione Takai Michiale Van Wyk Paris Saifoloi Fa’afetai Pritchard

Article added: Friday 29 April 2022