2013 was a big year for Joe Edwards, in just his second year out of Saint Kentigern College, the powerful loose forward played for the New Zealand Under 20s and was a key member of the Pakuranga premiers on their way to the Gallaher Shield title.

Edwards had made his debut for Auckland the previous year and formed a rockstar loose forward trio alongside the experienced Timoti Militoni and captain Dave Whitecliffe-Davies.

Joe recalls the 2013 season fondly and highlights several off-field memories among his favourites.

“Some of the boys terrible chat always kept the banter high and created an awesome team culture,” said Joe.

“Pretty sure Captain Kirk’s inspirational speeches and DWD’s pregame drink set the tone in each in terms of our success!”

On field, Joe echoes what several of his teammates have in terms of highlights.

“Playing against and beating Grammar and obviously Varsity in the Final were massive highlights. In the Final it was like everything clicked and we felt pretty comfortable in the game, having fun and throwing the ball around.”

When talking about the Final, Joe said he had his heart set on a meat pie, but it wasn’t to be.

“I really wanted to score a try but Wormy (Nick Smith) wouldn’t pass the ball, haha. Just felt like I was doing suicide shuttles all match!”

While he might not have got that last pass from Nick Smith in the Final, Joe said he was key to the success of the team that season. He also mentions the direction of Sam Vaevae and Gareth Arlidge and the freak himself, Tom McCartney.

Post match, celebrations at the club also rate highly in terms of memories.

“We received and awesome reception back at the clubrooms with all the families, friends and club supporters that finished pretty late that night slash early the next morning!”

Joe represented the New Zealand Under 20s in 2013, and went on to play for the Blues and Māori All Blacks. He moved to France in 2016 and has played for Bordeaux, Provence and currently plays for Vannes in the French Pro D2.

Joe’s brother Stephen will have an eye on a Pakuranga championship himself this year, as one of the forwards in the Under 85kg Panthers.

Article added: Thursday 29 June 2023