VODAFONE WARRIORS
WE ARE YOUR TEAM
warriors.kiwi
VODAFONE WARRIORS | WE ARE YOUR TEAM
|
warriors.kiwi 3
2015 OFFICIAL SEASON GUIDE
MANAGING EDITOR
Oliver Lee
EDITOR
Richard Becht
PHOTOGRAPHY
www.photosport.co.nz warriors.kiwi
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FRONT COVER
4-7 | ANNIVERSARY TREATS INTRODUCING RECRUITS | 42
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8 | RAPIRA STRIKES 10 NRL HEAD COACH | 43 12-28 | 1995-2014 REFLECTIONS NRL PLAYER PROFILES | 44-48 30 | FOR THE RECORD ARRIVED AND DEPARTED | 50 32-33 | NRL TEAM PHOTO & DRAW MILESTONES IN PROSPECT | 52 34 | FAMILY OF SPONSORS NSW CUP COACH AND DRAW | 53 35 | CANTERBURY OF NZ RE-SIGNED NYC COACH, PLAYER PROFILES | 54-56 36 | WOODSTOCK SHOULDERS UP NYC TEAM PHOTO | 58 37 | SILENI’S FINE VINTAGE 2015 NRL DRAW | 60-61 38-39 | COMMUNITY CAPERS AUCKLAND RUGBY LEAGUE | 62
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VODAFONE WARRIORS | WE ARE YOUR TEAM
2015 | 20 th ANNIVERSARY SEASON To add to it all, the club also produced an advertising campaign starring members, current players, old boys and the indefatigable Sir Peter Leitch. One way or the other there has been a fair splash of glitz and glamour, which is as it should be for this is no ordinary season for the club.
After all the once-were-Auckland Warriors who have morphed into the Vodafone Warriors announced their arrival in what was the Winfield Cup 20 years ago next Tuesday; it was on March 10, 1995, that the nation stopped as Dean Bell led the club in its debut against Brisbane at a venue then known as Ericsson Stadium. So it’s appropriate that the imminent 20th anniversary of that night should be accorded a build-up in keeping with the occasion. It’s a big moment for not just rugby league but also for New Zealand sport for it was this club which paved the way for other franchises which have followed in rugby union’s Super 12 and its derivative forms plus the Australasian basketball, netball and football competitions. Underpinning the celebratory nature of the anniversary season are the messages in the Vodafone Warriors’ advertising campaign which champions the team — ‘we are your team’ — the members and Mount Smart Stadium.
2015 | 20 th ANNIVERSARY SEASON CONTINUED ON p7
WITH SHAUN JOHNSON FRONTING THE FIRST NRL SEASON LAUNCH HELD IN AUCKLAND, THE NRL NINES ROCK ‘N’ ROLL SHOW BACK IN TOWN AND BENDON SUPERMODEL HEIDI KLUM DOING A PHOTO SHOOT WITH THE PLAYERS THIS HAS BEEN A FAR FROM ORDINARY BUILD-UP TO A VODAFONE WARRIORS CAMPAIGN.
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VODAFONE WARRIORS | WE ARE YOUR TEAM
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“All the fans appearing are committed members. They represent what being a Vodafone Warriors supporter is all about, bringing SUS AN TURN ER
WE ARE YOUR TEAM CONTINUED FROM p4
“In our 20th anniversary season, we wanted the campaign to not only feature our players but to be very much member-centric, to be about the Vodafone Warriors being a team for the whole country — your team,” said Vodafone Warriors managing director Jim Doyle.
A T R U E WA R R IO R SHAUN JOHNSO N AT NINES FAN DAY
DIEHARD MEMBERS WILL BE BACK IN FORCE AT MOUNT SMART STADIUM YET AGAIN IN 2015 TO JOIN IN THE VODAFONE WARRIORS’ 20TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS.
They’re the ones who were there when the original Auckland Warriors first came to life on March 10, 1995. They haven’t stopped coming ever since. Trying to track down exactly how many bona fide original members there still are is a challenge but there are plenty, especially around the West Stand tunnel.
WE ARE YOUR TEAM TV COM MER CIAL
out how rewarding it is to be a member and how vital it is for their club to have a strong and loyal member base. “We also have the advertisement which uses our members, our players and Sir Peter Leitch to reinforce why Mount Smart Stadium means everything to us. It’s home for them and we want it to be home for everyone who loves the Vodafone Warriors.” Appropriately enough a slew of milestones are woven into the fabric of such a special year. Not least of them will be the club’s 500th match in the competition in round 10 — away to Parramatta — plus long-time front rower Sam Rapira marking his 10th season in the NRL. Favourite son Manu Vatuvei has started the year six games short of becoming the third player to appear in 200 NRL matches for the Vodafone Warriors as well as being 15 tries away from joining a list of only nine players who have scored 150 tries in the competition’s history. Tied into the season will be specific themes around all 11 home games at Mount Smart Stadium, one of the highlights the fourth-round clash against the Broncos when memories of the original 1995 occasion will be evoked. Another special event will be staging an Anzac Day match at Mount Smart for the first time.
It’s not such a mission indulging in the same exercise inside the Vodafone Warriors’ organisation. Players have come and gone as have coaches, senior management, football and office staff. There have also been ownership changes along the way. Through it all, though, there has been one ever-present staff member, someone who doesn’t like fuss but someone who is unique to the organisation. It’s Susan Turner who has the singular distinction of being the only staff member who has been with the club for each of its 20 seasons so far and is now in her 21st marking the club’s 20th anniversary. Susan joined the original Auckland Warriors in 1995 and has seen more people come and go through the club than is imaginable. Specialising in the season membership and accounts area, she is also a familiar face at club events, notably on game days when she welcomes corporate guests to the Club Lounge in the East Stand. In this 20th anniversary season the Vodafone Warriors salute not only the army of loyal and committed 20-year members but especially Susan who has contributed so much to the club throughout its existence.
VODAFONE WARRIORS | WE ARE YOUR TEAM
8 warriors.kiwi
THE 10-SEASON CLUB
RAPIRA SEVENTH ON THE LIST
THE VODAFONE WARRIORS’ 20TH ANNIVERSARY SEASON FITTINGLY COINCIDES WITH THE INDUCTION OF ANOTHER MEMBER TO AN ELITE CLUB. Prop Sam Rapira becomes only the
season with 169 appearances since his debut as a 19-year-
seventh player to achieve the
old in 2006. He’s the fifth player in as many years to become
distinction of a place among
a 10-season player for the Vodafone Warriors. Captain
those whose careers span 10
Simon Mannering and veteran wing Manu Vatuvei were
seasons with the club. Rapira,
there when Rapira started, Mannering now set for his
28 in April, heads into his and the
11th NRL season with the club and Vatuvei his 12th.
Vodafone Warriors’ landmark
VODAFONE WARRIORS | 10 SEASONS IN THE NRL PLAYER
CAREER
GAMES
POINTS
#24
v Parramatta, Parramatta Stadium, April 23, 1995
261
674
1996-2006
#33
v North Sydney, Ericsson Stadium, April 14, 1996
170
60
LANCE HOHAIA
2002-201 1
#99
v North Queensland, Dairy Farmers Stadium, April 6, 2002
185
357
JEROME ROPATI
2003-2014
#108
v Sydney Roosters, Aussie Stadium, August 31, 2003
145
216
MANU VATUVEI
2004-2015
#115
v South Sydney, Sydney Football Stadium, May 23, 2004
194
540
SIMON MANNERING
2005-2015
#125
v Brisbane Broncos, Ericsson Stadium, June 26, 2005
212
208
SAM RAPIRA
2006-2015
#132
v Wests Tigers, Ericsson Stadium, May 20, 2006
169
56
STACEY JONES
1995-2005 and 2009
AWEN GUTTENBEIL
CLUB No.
DEBUT
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VODAFONE WARRIORS | WE ARE YOUR TEAM
12 warriors.kiwi
THE YEARS ROLL BACK |
20TH ANNIVERSARY REFLECTIONS 1995 | NEW BREED RISING
IT’S A NIGHT ETCHED IN A NATION’S CONSCIOUSNESS, ONE THAT STANDS THE TEST OF TIME FOR NOT ONLY A LEGION OF RUGBY LEAGUE FANS BUT FOR ANYONE OF ANY SORT OF SPORTING PERSUASION. And next Tuesday they’ll pause to remember that experience; it will be 20 years ago to night stood for. Because it was on March 10, 1995 that the Auckland Warriors made their entrance, foundation captain Dean Bell emerging the
OPEN ING NIGH T
day when there was no escaping what the
from tunnel in the north-eastern corner of Ericsson Stadium to unbelievable scenes and sounds. It remains as fresh as ever today, the focal point for the modern Vodafone Warriors’ 20th anniversary in this 2015 season.
TR Y-S CO RE R IN SE AN HO PP E.. . TO P
19 95 t
STAC EY JO NE S
t nig ht ag ai ns ■ A st on ish ing de bu un nin g in ev er y st Br on co s. It wa s 22 -2 5 los s. e th ite wa y de sp
19 95 SN AP SH OT
TAKE FIVE
| 1995
Co ac h | Jo hn Mo nie Ca pta in | De an Be ll an Ho pp e Mo st Tri es | 19 – Se ne Ng am u Mo st Po int s | 84 – Ge Te a Ro pa ti Pla ye r of the Ye ar |
y stunning in ever Broncos. It was t ns ai ag T H IG DEBUT N ■ Astonishing 22-25 loss. Suburbs after way despite the against Western in w r fo ts in po tition ■ Losing compe EMENTS. MANY REPLAC over Illawarra. FIELDING TOO d six, a 38-12 win un ro in RY O CT ulla. RST OFFICIAL VI -18 win over Cron 23 a , ce an ■ The club’s FI ar pe s first full ap ES starring in hi 26,500. ■ STACEY JON eraging close to av , ES M GA E M OWDS FOR HO ■ The HUGE CR
Shoulder to shoulder.
/woodstock
VODAFONE WARRIORS |
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THE YEARS ROLL BACK …
1996-1998 | CHALLENGING TIMES GENE NGAMU... TOP POINTS-SC ORER IN 1996
1996 SNAPSHOT
| 1996
Coach | John Monie Captain | Greg Alexander Most Tries | 10 – John Kirwan Most Points | 120 – Gene Ngamu Player of the Year | Stephen Kearney
TAKE FIVE
Wollongong. The 30-20 WIN OVER ILLAWARRA, still the club’s only win in ■ ck Gary Freeman was sent BEATING PARRAMATTA 28-4 AT MOUNT SMART; Eels halfba ■
off with the PA blasting out ‘Hit the Road Jack’. try scorer. ORMER ALL BLACK JOHN KIRWAN emerging the club’s top ■ F North Queensland. GENE NGAMU scoring club record 28 points in 52-6 win over ■ two more joined the club in 1996 After signing ex-ALL BLACKS KIRWAN and FRANO BOTICA, ■ (MARC ELLIS and MARK CARTER).
PROUD SUPPORTERS OF THE VODAFONE WARRIORS
www.bdo.co.nz
| WE ARE YOUR TEAM
STEPHEN KEARNEY
TAKE FIVE
| 19981
warriors.kiwi 15
TAKE FIVE
| 1997
1997 SNAPSHOT
Coach | John Monie, Frank Endacott Captain | Matthew Ridge Most Tries | 11 – Sean Hoppe Most Points | 71 – Marc Ellis Player of the Year | Stacey Jones
■ A fter the Sup er League fa llout, Kiwis KEVIN IRO, QUENT IN PONGIA and TYRAN SMIT H joined the ■ TONY TATUP club. U’S miraculo u s AFTER-THE MATCH-WIN -SIREN NING TRY ag ainst the Sto in Melbourne. rm ■ Impress ive wins over ROOSTERS, RAIDERS an BULLDOGS, d DRAGONS . ■ Owner A UCKLAND R UGBY LEAGU from the club E walks away . ■ Foundati on player ST EPHEN KEA RNEY ends h career with th is e club. CA PTAI N M ATTH
EW RI DG E
■ SUPER LEAGUE arrives to run its own breakaway competition.
■ Former All Black MATTHEW RIDGE signed as new captain. ■ FRANK ENDACOTT takes over as coach from JOHN MONIE after ninth-round loss to North Queensland. ■ The 31-24 AWAY WIN OVER CANBERRA, which remained the only victory at Bruce Stadium until last year. ■ REACHING THE SEMI-FINALS IN THE WORLD CLUB COMPETITION
19 98 SN AP SH OT
Co ac h | Fr an k En da co tt Ca pt ai n | M at th ew Ri dg e M os t Tr ie s | 13 – N ig el Va ga na M os t Po in ts | 110 – M at th ew Ri dg e Pl ay er of th e Ye ar | Jo e Va ga na
(beaten by Brisbane).
Mt Smart Stadium Western Springs Stadium QBE Stadium
SPORTS
CONCERTS
FESTIVALS
ENTERTAINMENT
VODAFONE WARRIORS | WE ARE YOUR TEAM
16 warriors.kiwi
THE YEARS ROLL BACK …
1999-2000 | THE TAINUI ERA
TAKE FIVE
| 1999
■ VODAFONE began its long partnership with the club. ■ MARK GRAHAM’S COACHING TERM started with a brilliant opening round win against the ROOSTERS. ■ MONTY BETHAM, WAIRANGI KOOPU, FRANCIS MELI and CLINTON TOOPI began what would be long-term careers with the club. ■ Exceptional 42-0 win over Newcastle marked STACEY JONES’ 100TH APPEARANCE for the club.
AWEN GUTTENBEIL
■ A TOTAL OF 174 POINTS SCORED in a season-ending run of FOUR STRAIGHT WINS. 1999 SNA PSH OT
Coa ch | Mar k Grah am Cap tain | Mat thew Ridg e Mos t Tries | 15 – Stac ey Jon es Mos t Poin ts | 80 – Mat thew Ridg e Play er of the Year | Jaso n Dea th
TON Y TUI MAVAV E
TAKE FIVE
| 2000
2000 SNAPSHOT
Coach | Mark Graham Captain | John Simon Most Tries | 12 – Nigel Vagana Most Points | 54 – John Simon Player of the Year | Robert Mears
lbourne. fending champion Me de st ain ag IN W -6 14 ury. ll of promise with a ck from long-term inj ■ Season opened fu osters in his comeba Ro er ov n wi in y pla s 54 los to inspirational dis luding club record 0inc ts ■ STACEY JONES’ fea de y av he l ra ve for the worse with se Season took a turn ■ ong. St George in Wollong arances for the club. yer to make 100 appe pla nd co se me ca be ■ JOE VAGANA WATSON took over. e club in ruins; ERIC th th wi d de en P HI ■ TAINUI’S OWNERS
VODAFONE WARRIORS | WE ARE YOUR TEAM
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THE YEARS ROLL BACK …
TAKE FIVE
| 2004
■ ALI LAUITIITI left the club in dramatic circumstances in April to take up a contract with Leeds. ■ STACEY JONES made his 200TH FIRST-GRADE APPEARANCE for the club. ■ Days after a 6-58 loss to the Roosters, DANIEL ANDERSON quit as coach with TONY KEMP taking over. ■ In KEMP’S FIRST MATCH IN CHARGE, the VODAFONE WARRIORS beat Canberra 20-14. ■ The CLUB announced it had signed experienced front rowers RUBEN WIKI and STEVE PRICE for 2005 and beyond.
CLINTON TOOPI
2004-2006 | TIMES OF CHANGE
OT 20 04 SN AP SH
p d Tony Kem el Anderson an ni Da | s he c C oa ty B e th a m C a p ta in | M on li – Fr a n c is M e M os t Tr ie s | 10 um Fa ui n a | 6 8 – S io n e M os t Po in ts Ko op u a r | Wa ira n g i Ye e th of r e Pl ay STEVE PRICE
Co ac h | Tony Kemp Ca pta in | S tev e Pri ce Mo st Trie s | 14 – Tod d By rne Mo st Po int s | 147 – Sta ce y Jon es Pla ye r of the Yea r | Ru be n Wi ki
200 6 SN APS HO T
Co ac h | Ivan Cleary Ca pta in | S tev e Pri ce We bb Mo st Trie s | 11 – Bre nt y Ma rtin Mo st Po int s | 160 – Ton Pri ce ve Pla ye r of the Yea r | Ste
| 2005
| 2006 TAKE FIVE
■ CLUB FINED and deducted four competition points after being found guilty of salary cap breaches. ■ A 26-10 WIN against Wests Tigers in Christchurch was the club’s first at a New Zealand venue outside Auckland. ■ Parramatta fullback WADE McKINNON signed to replace the departing BRENT WEBB in 2007. ■ The COMPETITION POINTS LOST for the salary cap breaches cost the club a spot in the finals. ■ Confirmation LOGAN SWANN would return home from England on a two-year contract.
TAKE FIVE
■ The Vodafone Warriors shocked Brisbane with a SECOND-ROUND 24-12 WIN at Suncorp Stadium. ■ Club announced STACEY JONES would leave at the end of the season to join Les Catalans. ■ Clock wound back for 10TH ANNIVERSARY HOME CLASH against original opponent Brisbane. ■ STACEY JONES scored the matchwinning try in his last game for the club before leaving for France. ■ WAYNE SCURRAH named as the club’s new CEO and IVAN CLEARY confirmed as the new NRL coach for 2006.
RUB EN WIK I
200 5 SN APS HO T
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VODAFONE WARRIORS | WE ARE YOUR TEAM
warriors.kiwi
THE YEARS ROLL BACK …
2009 | SONNY FAI RIP SON NY FAI
IN TRIBUTE TO SONNY FAI BORN | MARCH 20, 1988 DIED | JANUARY 4, 2009
A precocious talent lost too soon while heroically saving the lives of others at Te Henga (Bethells Beach). FOREVER IN OUR HEARTS.
TAKE FIVE
| 2009
2009 SNA PSH OT
Coa ch | Ivan Clea ry Cap tain | Stev e Pric e Mos t Tries | 13 – Man u Vatu vei Mos t Poin ts | 60 – Kevi n Loc ke Play er of the Year | Mic hea l Luc k
ing team-mate SONNY FAI. ged to focus on football after los llen cha e wer S YER PLA TED EVASTA ■ D E and CLUB NUMBER (#138). idered with SONNY’S SIGNATUR bro em e wer eys jers g yin pla ■ The team’s JONES’ match-winning return NTS, none more so than STACEY ME MO L CIA SPE e som l stil e here wer ■ T the year. season. He retired at the end of against Manly in his comeback th first-grade appearance. ■ STEVE PRICE made his 300 making the finals er close defeats ruined hopes of oth five s plu H RIT PEN and NE ■ DRAWS with MELBOUR for the third straight season.
26
VODAFONE WARRIORS | WE ARE YOUR TEAM
warriors.kiwi
THE YEARS ROLL BACK …
2010 | FINALS HEARTBREAK S ODAFONE JUNIOR WARRIOR ■ V beat South Sydney 42-28 to win the NYC PREMIERSHIP; VODAFONE WARRIORS won NRL’s Club Championship.
TAKE FIVE
| 2010
in ■ Club returned to NRL FINALS on FIFTH SPOT but missed out second life due to the vagaries of the McIntyre System. his ■ SIMON MANNERING made debut as captain. ■ STEVE PRICE announced his retirement; injury prevented him
2010 SNAPSHOT
playing in 2010.
cey ■ MANU VATUVEI passed Sta ord rec g Jones’ club try-scorin of 77.
MA NU VAT UVE I
Coach | Ivan Cleary Captain | Simon Mannering Most Tries | 20 – Manu Vatuvei Most Points | 188 – James Maloney Player of the Year | Manu Vatuvei
VODAFONE WARRIORS | WE ARE YOUR TEAM
warriors.kiwi 27
THE YEARS ROLL BACK …
2011 | GRAND FINAL TREBLE
TAKE FIVE
| 2011
NYC CHA MPIO NS
CUP and he NRL, NEW SOUTH WALES ■ T finals. nd gra ir the NYC teams all made t their first ■ The Vodafone Warriors los FINISHED three matches of the year but season. ular reg the SIXTH at the end of bane in ■ After being trounced by Bris , they WEEK ONE of the NRL FINALS to rm Sto the and beat Wests Tigers r. meet Manly in the decide k a home game ■ The Vodafone Warriors too first time away from Mount Smart for the k). Par n (playing Parramatta at Ede 2011 SN AP SH OT
ip, the NYC aving won the minor premiersh ■ H with a LES side made it BACK-TO-BACK TIT Cowboys. 31-30 golden point win over the
rin g Si m on M an ne ry Ca pt ai n | ea Cl an Iv | h Co ac i – M an u Va tu ve M os t Tri es | 12 M al on ey 20 6 – Ja m es M os t Po in ts | ne rin g ar | Si m on M an Pl ay er of th e Ye
P r o u d ly y . . . db Presente
th
5
ry rsA iVe Ann iTiOn eD
?
e is b ? h t y ld Stor u Co ur yo
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28
VODAFONE WARRIORS | WE ARE YOUR TEAM
warriors.kiwi
THE YEARS ROLL BACK …
2012-2014 | NO FINALS JOY
| 2012
■ T he Vodafone Warriors started their home season at Eden Park again (against defending premier Manly).
TAKE FIVE
■ S IMON MANNERING, MANU VATUVEI and MICHEAL LUCK made their 150TH NRL APPEARANCES for the club, Luck in his final match before retiring.
MICHEAL LUCK'S LAST GAME
■ VATUVEI took his career try tally past 100. ■ B EN MATULINO became the first NYC graduate to play 100 NRL games. ■ B RIAN McCLENNAN was replaced by TONY IRO as coach for the last two games. SHAUN JOHNSON
2012 SNAPS HOT
Manne ring Coach es | Brian McCle nnan and Tony Iro Captai n | Simon Vatuve i Most Tries | 12 – Konrad Hurrell , Shaun Johns on, Manu ey Most Points | 153 – James Malon Player of the Year | Ben Matuli no
| 2013
■ M MATTHEW ATTHEW ELLIOTT was appointed the club’s ninth coach, the fourth in three seasons.
2013 SNAPSHOT
Coach | Matthew Elliott Captain | Simon Mannering Most Tries | 16 – Manu Vatuvei Most Points | 177 – Shaun Johnson Player of the Year | Simon Mannering
TAKE FIVE
■ F or the third season on end, the Vodafone Warriors played their first home game of the year at Eden Park. ■ F or the first time the club took a HOME GAME out of Auckland (to Wellington). ■ F ELETI MATEO and JACOB LILLYMAN made their 150th NRL appearances; LILLYMAN also played his 100th game for the club. ■ F OUR LOSSES in the last six games cost the Vodafone Warriors a spot in the finals.
TAKE FIVE
| 2014
■ A fter five rounds, ANDREW McFADDEN SIM ON MA NN ER ING was appointed acting head coach replacing MATTHEW ELLIOTT (he was soon signed permanently). ■ T he club was on track for the finals but ultimately missed out to Brisbane on runs for and against. ■ S IMON MANNERING made his 200th NRL appearance and his 100th game as captain in the same match (against Newcastle). 2014 SN AP SH OT ■ B EN MATULINO played his 150th match, Co ac he s | Ma tth ew the first NYC graduate to do so. Ell iot t an d An dre w Mc Fa dd en Ca pta in | Sim on Ma nn ■ F OUR HOME GAMES were played away eri ng Mo st Tri es | 17 – Ma nu Va tuv ei from Mount Smart, three at Eden Park Mo st Po int s | 16 3 – Sh au n Jo hn so n and one in Wellington. Pla ye r of the Ye ar | Sim on Ma nn eri ng
30
VODAFONE WARRIORS | WE ARE YOUR TEAM
warriors.kiwi
VODAFONE WARRIORS
CLUB RECORDS
LONGEST-SERVING VODAFONE WARRIORS CAPTAIN SIMON MANNERING
BIGGEST HOME CROWDS
MOST TRIES IN A MATCH
38,412 v Parramatta, Eden Park, 2011
5
37,502 v Manly, Eden Park, 2012 32,740 v Sydney Roosters, Eden Park, 2013
MOST FIRST-GRADE APPEARANCES 261
Stacey Jones, 1995-2005, 2009
MOST GAMES AS HEAD COACH 154
Ivan Cleary, 2006-2011
MOST WINS AS HEAD COACH 77
Ivan Cleary, 2006-2011
MOST GAMES AS CAPTAIN 112
MOST TRIES IN A SEASON 23
Francis Meli (27 games), 2003
MOST CAREER TRIES FOR CLUB 135
Manu Vatuvei (194 games), 2004-2014
MOST POINTS IN A SEASON 242
Ivan Cleary (26 games, 8 tries, 105 goals), 2002
MOST POINTS IN A MATCH 28
Gene Ngamu (3 tries, 8 goals) v North Queensland, Ericsson Stadium, 1996
MOST GOALS IN A MATCH 12
Ivan Cleary v Northern Eagles, Ericsson Stadium, 2002
MOST POINTS FOR THE CLUB 674
Stacey Jones (261 games, 77 tries, 176 goals, 14 field goals), 1995-2005, 2009
BIGGEST WINNING MARGIN 66
66-0 v South Sydney, Telstra Stadium, 2006
BIGGEST LOSING MARGIN 56
6-62 v Penrith, Centrebet Stadium, 2013
LONGEST WINNING STREAK 8
Round 7-Round 14, 2002
28
Ivan Cleary (1 try, 12 goals) v Northern Eagles, Ericsson Stadium, 2002
LONGEST HOME WINNING STREAK
28
James Maloney (3 tries, 8 goals) v Brisbane, Suncorp Stadium, 2010
LONGEST LOSING STREAK
Simon Mannering, 2010-2014
* STATISTICS TO END OF 2014 NRL SEASON.
Francis Meli v Bulldogs, Sydney Showground, 2003
7
11
July 12, 2008-March 14, 2009
Rounds 19, 2012-Round 3, 2013
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32 warriors.kiwi
2015
VODAFONE WARRIORS WE ARE YOUR TEAM
BACK ROW | Siliva Havili, Charlie Gubb, Ryan Hoffman, Manu Vatuvei, Sione Lousi, Ben Matulino, MIDDLE ROW | Sam Tomkins, David Bhana, Brad Abbey, Sam Lisone, Ben Henry, Api Pewhairangi, Jonathan W FRONT ROW | Nathan Friend, Sam Rapira, Shaun Johnson, Jacob Lillyman, Sebastine Ikahihifo, Simo
2015 DRAW
DATE
TIME* OPPOSITION VENUE
DATE
Sat Mar 7
4.30pm Knights
Hunter Stadium
May 22-25 Bye
TIME OPPOSITION VENUE
Sun Mar 15
6.30pm Raiders
GIO Stadium
Sun May 31
Sat Mar 21
5.00pm Eels
Mt Smart Stadium
Sun Mar 29
2.00pm Broncos
Mt Smart Stadium
Mon April 6
5.00pm Storm
AAMI Park
Sat June 20 5.30pm Titans
Cbus Super Stadium
Sat April 11
7.30pm Wests Tigers
Mt Smart Stadium
Sat June 27 5.00pm Raiders
Mount Smart Stadium
Sat April 18
5.30pm Cowboys
1300SMILES Stadium
July 3-6 Bye
Sat April 25
2.00pm Titans
Mt Smart Stadium
Sun July 12
Sat May 9
5.30pm Sharks
Remondis Stadium
Sun July 19 2.00pm Roosters
Sydney Football Stadium
Sat May 16
3.00pm Eels
Pirtek Stadium
Sat July 25
Mount Smart Stadium
4.00pm Knights
Mount Smart Stadium
Sat June 6
3.30pm Rabbitohs
nib Stadium, Perth
Sat June 13
8.00pm Roosters
Mount Smart Stadium
4.00pm Storm 5.00pm Sea Eagles
Mount Smart Stadium
VODAFONE WARRIORS | WE ARE YOUR TEAM
warriors.kiwi 33
, Nathaniel Peteru, Albert Vete, Ken Maumalo, David Fusitu’a, Tuimoala Lolohea, Thomas Leuluai. Wright, Raymond Faitala-Mariner, John Palavi, Glen Fisiiahi, Dominique Peyroux, Chad Townsend, Suaia Matagi. on Mannering (c), Bodene Thompson, Matt Allwood, Konrad Hurrell, Solomone Kata, Ngani Laumape. DATE
TIME* OPPOSITION VENUE
DATE MATCHES
Sat August 1
TBC Sharks
Mount Smart Stadium
FINALS
Sat August 8
TBC Dragons
Westpac Stadium
Sat August 15
TBC Panthers
Pepper Stadium
September 11-13 Week 1 Qualifying Semi Finals
Sat August 22
TBC Cowboys
Mount Smart Stadium
Sun August 30
TBC Wests Tigers
Campbelltown Stadium
Sun Sept 6
TBC Bulldogs
ANZ Stadium
Tickets from: www.ticketek.co.nz or 0800 TICKETEK For further information www.warriors.kiwi
September 18-19 Week 2 Semi Finals September 25-26 Week 3 Preliminary Finals October 4 NRL GRAND FINAL
* NOTE: Local times are listed
34 warriors.kiwi
VODAFONE WARRIORS | WE ARE YOUR TEAM
PARTNERS COMMITTED TO CLUB ESTABLISHED PARTNERS HAVE RE-COMMITTED AND NEW SPONSORS HAVE ALSO JOINED THE VODAFONE WARRIORS’ FAMILY OVER THE LAST FEW MONTHS. While Canterbury of New Zealand has extended its
Canterbury of New Zealand has been the club’s official
sponsorship to nine years, Woodstock Bourbon & Cola
apparel sponsor since 2009, its logo appearing prominently
has come on board on a three-year term.
on a full range of playing kit, training gear and street wear.
Along with principal sponsor Vodafone and long-term
Independent Liquor’s Woodstock Bourbon & Cola brand has
partner SKYCITY, they head an impressive portfolio
become the sleeve sponsor for the NRL side with another of
of sponsors.
its brands Wild Buck appearing on the sleeves of the jerseys worn by the club’s New South Wales Cup side. Other newcomers are Sileni Estates and Westie Pies, Sileni Estates becoming the wine of choice for Vodafone Warriors home games at Mount Smart Stadium while the Westie Pies name will appear on the New South Wales Cup kit. Apart from Canterbury of New Zealand other sponsors who have re-signed have been Air New Zealand, ASICS, Barkers, Beiersdorf (USL Medical), DEWALT, Eternal Delight, OPRO Shield,
THOMAS LEULUAI MODELS ‘TE WHARE TU TOA' HERITAGE STRIP
AUCKLAND 95.8, CHRISTCHURCH 93.3/88.0, DUNEDIN 88.6, HAWKES BAY 96.7, NORTHLAND 106.0, ROTORUA 89.5, TARANAKI 106.0, TAURANGA 99.0
NZME Radio, TAB and Wendy’s.
VODAFONE WARRIORS | WE ARE YOUR TEAM
warriors.kiwi 35
CANTERBURY OF NZ EXTENDS TO 2017 CANTERBURY OF NEW ZEALAND’S CURRENT PARTNERSHIP COINCIDED WITH THE VODAFONE WARRIORS WILL GROW TO NINE YEARS AFTER SIGNING A NEW THREE-YEAR TERM TO THE END OF THE 2017 NRL SEASON. The company now has the special distinction of its iconic CCC logo appearing on the club’s kit in both its debut season in 1995 and this year’s landmark 20th anniversary campaign. The first six years of Canterbury of New Zealand’s current association as official apparel sponsor has coincided with Vodafone Warriors dominating team kit sales across the NRL.
As well as including feedback from players and training staff in
Since 2009 Vodafone Warriors jerseys have sold in
the design phase, Canterbury of New Zealand uses advanced
exceptional numbers, none more so than the ‘Te Toki Pounamu’ design in 2012. The special greenstone heritage jersey highlighted Canterbury’s technical capabilities and promoted the Vodafone Warriors brand to a worldwide audience.
manufacturing techniques and technologies to give the NRL, New South Wales Cup and NYC teams a competitive advantage when training and playing.
BUY VODAFONE WARRIORS JERSEYS | WWW.WARRIORSSTORE.CO.NZ
YOUR TEAM
warriors.kiwi
VODAFONE WARRIORS | WE ARE YOUR TEAM
36 warriors.kiwi
SHOULDER TO SHOULDER
WOODSTOCK BOURBON & COLA HAS SHOWN ITS SUPPORT FOR THE VODAFONE WARRIORS BY SIGNING UP AS A VALUED NEW MAJOR SPONSOR FOR THE NEXT THREE YEARS. Woodstock’s logo will feature on the sleeves of the NRL team’s
As well as on-kit visibility with the Woodstock and Wild
jerseys while another brand Wild Buck Ale will appear on
Buck Ale brands, Woodstock will have pourage rights at
the sleeves of the New South
all 11 Vodafone Warriors
Wales Cup side’s jerseys.
home matches at Mount
Independent Liquor’s general
Smart Stadium.
manager of marketing Adam
The sponsorship agreement
Maxwell said the company
also incorporates ticketing,
was excited about its
signage, player access
partnership coinciding with
and merchandise benefits
the Vodafone Warriors’
along with a number of
20th anniversary.
exclusive behind the
“We’ve always been popular
scenes experiences. To kick off the sponsorship,
with Vodafone Warriors fans and couldn’t be prouder to make it official and share their
Woodstock gave consumers the chance to win an exclusive
passion in what is a very special year for the club,” he said.
NRL Auckland Nines experience.
“We’ll be there every step of the way to help the
At the Nines Woodstock also ran a successful ‘Woody Words
Vodafone Warriors kick off their 20th anniversary
of Wisdom’ promotion which is being extended to incorporate
celebrations. It’s a great time to start our partnership.”
Vodafone Warriors home games at Mount Smart.
The Tile People L I M I T E D
phone 09 813 6082 fax 09 813 6087
Fi or a n es e M
◆ Design
et ro p ol
◆ S upply ◆ Install O k o sk in pl a
n k fib re C
www.tilepeople.co.nz
Visit our showroom at 29b Bath Street, Parnell
VODAFONE WARRIORS | WE ARE YOUR TEAM
warriors.kiwi
SILENI PROVIDES NEW TOUCH The Nano is the ultimate in hand held devices — a mini single serve wine and cup in non-breakable, fully recyclable, PET plastic — and now it’s the wine of choice for Vodafone Warriors games at Mount Smart Stadium for the 2015 and 2016 NRL seasons. “We’re thrilled that Sileni Estates wines will be sold at the Vodafone Warriors’ home games at Mount Smart Stadium because it raises the bar for wine quality at sports events and provides high quality
in a recyclable bottle with its own cup,” said Sileni Estates founder Sir Graeme Avery. The Nano is available as a sauvignon blanc, a rose (pink) and a pinot noir and will be served in the stadium area while other Sileni Estates wines will be served in the lounges and corporate boxes at Vodafone Warriors home games.
“We designed the Nano in response to customers asking us to create a wine bottle with an attachable glass that was easy to hold, light and wouldn’t break or take up too much space,” said Avery. The partnership gives Sileni Estates’ new Nano (launched in September 2014) exposure to more than 15,000 consumers per match day. Go to www.sileni.co.nz to find out more about Sileni Estates.
37
38 warriors.kiwi
VODAFONE WARRIORS | WE ARE YOUR TEAM
YOUR TEAM |
OUR COMMUNITY THE VODAFONE WARRIORS PLAYED AN INTEGRAL ROLE IN THE NRL’S 15TH ANNUAL COMMUNITY CARNIVAL IN FEBRUARY INTERACTING WITH THOUSANDS OF MEMBERS, FANS AND KIDS IN ROTORUA AND AUCKLAND. Leading up to the hit-out against Penrith in the Geyser City, club legends Jerome Ropati and Ruben Wiki plus NRL squad members Glen Fisiiahi, Charlie Gubb and Siliva Havili saw 5000 pupils at 12 schools delivering the NRL’s ‘Health and Wellbeing’ message. There was a true grass roots theme for the community carnival at Bruce Pulman Park in Papakura. This was the first time Vodafone Warriors NRL stars had played a trial at a suburban ground in Auckland and members and fans lapped up the opportunity to be up close and personal with their heroes.
B OO K A N D PAY FO R Y O UR TAX I IN 16 C I T I ES W I TH JUS T O NE AP P. No longer will you need to remember the name and phone number of various taxi companies when travelling throughout NZ as the simple touch of your smartphone will see a Blue Bubble cab dispatched to you. Safe and professional transport, now easier than ever.
Download free for Android and iPhone Visit www.bbapp.co.nz
warriors.kiwi 39
DRAINAGE FOUNDATIONS SITEWORKS EARTHWORKS WATER RETICULATION PO Box 286 • Whakatane 3158
(07) 307 1574 Andrew Barrett 021 0200 8151 andrew@completesiteworks.co.nz
CARPARKS TRUCK HIRE TRANSPORT
40 warriors.kiwi
VODAFONE WARRIORS | WE ARE YOUR TEAM
MEMBERSHIP OPTIONS GROW MORE MEMBERSHIP OPTIONS THAN EVER HAVE BEEN CREATED FOR THE VODAFONE WARRIORS’ 20TH ANNIVERSARY SEASON. Central to all packages is the ‘members get more’ ethos which provides more exclusive experiences and opportunities (like the members-only Christmas barbecue) on top of significant ticket pricing benefits. The core product is the traditional 11-game membership offering the widest range of benefits for members who are committed to attending all home games at Mount Smart Stadium.
loyalties. Lillyman has pushed his beloved Queensland’s cause while Townsend has been equally committed to promoting his home state of New South Wales. They have exhorted their own people to show their support for the new regional away membership packages as the Vodafone Warriors seek to galvanise the huge support base seen whenever the team plays games in either state. The state angle has also grown to include away memberships for Vodafone Warriors fans in Victoria and Western Australia. The regional packages offer a number of benefits, most notably a ticket to a
There’s again a Warrior Proud membership, an appealing option for fans anywhere around the world — including New Zealand, even Auckland — for supporters who are keen to ‘belong’ to the club. And for the first time this year the club has also introduced an away membership product tailored for supporters in Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria and Western Australia (the NSW membership also caters for fans in Australian Capital Territory). These are marketed as WA Warrior, Qld Warrior, NSW Warrior and Vic Warrior, costing just NZD $79 for an adult and NZD $179 for a family.
Vodafone Warriors game in the respective region and an invitation to an exclusive meet the team event as well as a discounted price of NZD $150 all year round on Vodafone Warriors jerseys (RRP NZD $185; no GST charged on overseas deliveries).
Vodafone Warriors team-mates Jacob Lillyman and Chad Townsend were recruited as membership ambassadors, putting their friendship on hold in favour of their state
Vodafone Warriors membership manager William Felgate said the packages had been created to give the club’s huge fan base in Australia a closer connection with their team.
VODAFONE WARRIORS | WE ARE YOUR TEAM
warriors.kiwi 41
“We love the way ex-patriate Kiwis turn out in such amazing numbers to support the Vodafone Warriors when we take on teams in Australia,” he said. “Every time we play the Storm, Broncos, Titans, any team in Perth and most clubs in Sydney, our fans drown out the locals. The noise they make and the passion they show is brilliant and we know how much the players appreciate the way they back their team and help to lift the boys. “We’ve had some hugely successful members-only events in Brisbane, Gold Coast, Melbourne and Sydney and now we want to give our supporters in Australia the chance to forge a closer and stronger link with the team through our regional membership initiative. “It’s great being a fan but being a member takes the experience to another level.”
While the regional memberships are on offer for the first time, the Vodafone Warriors still have the Warrior Proud away membership option. This includes a ticket to a regular season game at Mount Smart Stadium or the match against the Dragons in Wellington in August which is transferable if the member is unable to travel to the game. There’s also a highly attractive and popular range of corporate membership options in the Club Lounge (platinum and gold memberships) and the Legends Lounge in the East Stand as well as corporate suites and open-air booths in the West Stand.
JUST THE TICKET…
THE VODAFONE WARRIORS HAVE LAUNCHED A NEW TICKET PRICING STRUCTURE FOR THEIR 2015 NRL HOME GAMES AT MOUNT SMART STADIUM. A special feature is the introduction of a three-game and five-game flexi pass enabling casual fans to buy general admission tickets to three games of their choice for just $60* ($30* for kids) or five games of their choice for only $90* ($45* for kids). The five-game flexi pass offer provides exceptional value, bringing the price down to just $18 per game. Both flexi pass offers also include a 10 per cent discount on Vodafone Warriors merchandise throughout the season. Another initiative is a fan-friendly three-tiered ticketing system for casual sales categorising all home games at Mount Smart Stadium as one star, two star or three star fixtures with pricing ranked accordingly. It enables adults to pre-purchase tickets to one star games for as little as $20* while general admission prices for children are fixed at $10* for all games providing a real incentive for families to attend. * Payment processing fee applies when purchasing tickets or flexi passes.
“There’s no question the best value option is to become a Vodafone Warriors member,” said Vodafone Warriors membership manager William Felgate. “Our membership packages offer the biggest rewards, none better than the 11-game option which equates to 11 games for the price of eight as well as numerous member-only benefits. “While our priority is to grow our membership base, we still want to cater for the casual fan, though. That’s where our flexi pass options and the tiered pricing works in their favour.”
MORE INFORMATION For full details of all Vodafone Warriors membership options and flexi pass offers go to www.warriorsforever.co.nz or contact William Felgate (+64 9 526 8820, +64 21 430 036 or william@warriors.kiwi) For more information about Vodafone Warriors corporate membership packages go to www.corporatewarriors.co.nz or contact Gordon Gibbons (+64 9 526 8820, +64 21 912 927 or gordon@warriors.kiwi)
VODAFONE WARRIORS | WE ARE YOUR TEAM
warriors.kiwi 43
NRL SQUAD IN PROFILE
ANDREW McFADDEN TAKES NOT ONLY A CHANGED PLAYING SQUAD BUT ALSO A NEW-LOOK FOOTBALL DEPARTMENT INTO HIS FIRST FULL NRL SEASON AS VODAFONE WARRIORS HEAD COACH. With the benefit of starting on his own terms in the build-up to the club’s 20th anniversary season in 2015, McFadden has new assistant coaches in Tony Iro and Andrew Webster.
few doors down Beasley Avenue with the New Zealand Rugby League while Webster has joined the club from Wests Tigers.
Iro is back at Mount Smart Stadium after two years a
of athletic performance.
Also on board from Wests Tigers is Balin Cupples as head
ANDREW McFADDEN DATE OF BIRTH: January 20, 1978 APPOINTED: 2014 PREVIOUS APPOINTMENTS: Canberra Jersey Flegg coach (2005), Canberra premier league coach (2006), Les Catalans assistant coach (2007-2008), Canberra NYC coach (2009), Canberra assistant coach (2010-2012), Vodafone Warriors assistant coach (2013-2014), Vodafone Warriors head coach (2014-present) PLAYING RECORD: 100 first grade games for Canberra (1997-2001), Parramatta (2002), Melbourne (2003-2004) PREMIERSHIP COACHING RECORD: Games: 19. Wins: 10. Losses: 9. Draws: 0. Win Percentage: 52.63% Premierships: Nil. Grand Finals: Nil. Final Series: Nil.
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Parts & Service
SIMON MANNERING (c) #125
MATTHEW ALLWOOD
DATE OF BIRTH: August 28, 1986 BIRTHPLACE: Napier, NZ JUNIOR CLUBS: Te Aroha Eels, University Hunters, POSITION: Second Row HEIGHT: 191cm WEIGHT: 105kg REP HONOURS: 40 Tests for NZ (2006-14); World Cup (2008 & 2013); Tri Nations (2006); Four Nations (2010-1 1) PREVIOUS CLUBS: Nil NRL GAMES: 212 (2005-14), 208 pts (52 tries)
DATE OF BIRTH: November 16, 1992 BIRTHPLACE: Scone, New South Wales JUNIOR CLUB: Farrer Memorial Agricultural HS POSITION: Centre/Wing HEIGHT: 185cm WEIGHT: 93kg REP HONOURS: NRL Nines (2015), NSW U17 & U18 PREVIOUS CLUB: Canberra (2014) NRL GAMES: 1 1 (2014), 4 pts (1 try)
DAVID BHANA
RAYMOND FAITALA-MARINER
DATE OF BIRTH: January 10, 1993 BIRTHPLACE: Auckland, NZ JUNIOR CLUB: Northcote Tigers POSITION: Loose Forward/Second Row HEIGHT: 183cm WEIGHT: 98kg PREVIOUS CLUBS: Nil REP HONOURS: Junior Kiwis (2012-13); NZ Residents 18s (201 1) NSW CUP: (Vodafone Warriors): 23 games (2014), 24 pts (6 tries)
DATE OF BIRTH: July 26, 1993 BIRTHPLACE: Auckland, NZ JUNIOR CLUB: Otahuhu Leopards POSITION: Second Row HEIGHT: 186cm WEIGHT: 105kg REP HONOURS: NRL Nines (2014); Junior Kiwis (2013) PREVIOUS CLUBS: Nil NSW CUP (Vodafone Warriors): 23 games (2014), 24 pts (6 tries)
GLEN FISIIAHI #163
NATHAN FRIEND #171
DATE OF BIRTH: December 2, 1990 BIRTHPLACE: Auckland, NZ JUNIOR CLUB: Ellerslie Eagles POSITION: Fullback/Wing HEIGHT: 184cm WEIGHT: 92kg REP HONOURS: 3 Tests Tonga (2013); World Cup (2013); NRL Nines (2014); Junior Kiwis (2010) PREVIOUS CLUBS: Nil NRL GAMES: 24 games (201 1-14), 60 pts (15 tries)
DATE OF BIRTH: February 28, 1981 BIRTHPLACE: Toowoomba, Queensland JUNIOR CLUB: Wests Juniors POSITION: Hooker HEIGHT: 172cm WEIGHT: 85kg REP HONOURS: Nil PREVIOUS CLUBS: Brisbane (2002); Melbourne (2003-06); Gold Coast (2007-11) NRL GAMES: 197 (2002-14), 44 pts (1 1 tries)
DAVID FUSITU’A #189
CHARLIE GUBB #183
DATE OF BIRTH: October 16, 1994 BIRTHPLACE: Auckland , NZ JUNIOR CLUB: Marist Saints POSITION: Fullback/Centre/Wing HEIGHT: 189cm WEIGHT: 97kg REP HONOURS: NRL Nines (2014); Junior Kiwis (2012-13); NZ Residents 18s (201 1) PREVIOUS CLUBS: Nil NRL GAMES: 12 games (2014), 28 pts (7 tries)
DATE OF BIRTH: May 17, 1990 BIRTHPLACE: Wellington, NZ JUNIOR CLUB: University Hunters, (Wellington) POSITION: Prop HEIGHT: 188cm WEIGHT: 107kg REP HONOURS: NRL Nines (2014), Queensland Residents (2012) PREVIOUS CLUBS: Nil NRL GAMES: 6 (2013-14), 0 pts
SILIVA HAVILI #190
BEN HENRY #173
DATE OF BIRTH: February 18, 1993 BIRTHPLACE: Auckland, NZ JUNIOR CLUB: Manurewa Marlins POSITION: Hooker HEIGHT: 175cm WEIGHT: 99kg REP HONOURS: 1 Test NZ (2014); Four Nations (2014); 2 Tests Tonga (2013); Junior Kiwis (201 1-12) PREVIOUS CLUBS: Nil NRL CAREER: 6 games (201 4), 0 pts
DATE OF BIRTH: December 14, 1991 BIRTHPLACE: Auckland, NZ JUNIOR CLUB: Bay Roskill Vikings POSITION: Loose Forward/Second Row/Centre HEIGHT: 185cm WEIGHT: 102kg REP HONOURS: 1 Test NZ (2014); NRL Nines (2015) PREVIOUS CLUBS: Nil NRL GAMES: 47 (2012-14), 74 pts (17 tries, 3 goals)
RYAN HOFFMAN
KONRAD HURRELL #172
DATE OF BIRTH: January 26, 1984 BIRTHPLACE: Woden Valley, ACT JUNIOR CLUB: Campbelltown Collegians POSITION: Second Row HEIGHT: 192cm WEIGHT: 105kg REP HONOURS: 6 Tests Australia (2007-14); 1 1 games NSW (2007-14); 7 games City Origin (2006-14), PM’s XIII (2014); NRL Nines (2014-15) PREVIOUS CLUBS: Melbourne (2003-10 & 2012-14), Wigan (2011) NRL GAMES: 245 games (2003-10 & 2014); 236 pts (59 tries)
DATE OF BIRTH: August 5, 1991 BIRTHPLACE: Tofoa, Tonga JUNIOR CLUB: Vodafone Junior Warriors POSITION: Centre HEIGHT: 183cm WEIGHT: 104kg PREVIOUS CLUBS: Nil REP HONOURS: 3 Tests Tonga (2013); World Cup (2013); NRL Nines (2014) NRL GAMES: 56 (2012-14), 148 pts (37 tries)
NRL PLAYER PROFILES CONTINUED ON p47
VODAFONE WARRIORS | WE ARE YOUR TEAM
44 warriors.kiwi
NRL PLAYER PROFILES CONTINUED FROM p44
SEBASTINE IKAHIHIFO #176
warriors.kiwi 47 SHAUN JOHNSON #168
DATE OF BIRTH: January 27, 1991 BIRTHPLACE: Auckland, NZ JUNIOR CLUB: Mangere East Hawks POSITION: Loose Forward/Second Row HEIGHT: 183cm WEIGHT: 105kg REP HONOURS: NRL Nines (2014); Junior Kiwis (2010-1 1) PREVIOUS CLUBS: Nil NRL GAMES: 30 (2012-14), 0 pts
DATE OF BIRTH: September 9, 1990 BIRTHPLACE: Auckland, NZ JUNIOR CLUBS: Hibiscus Coast Raiders, Northcote Tigers POSITION: Halfback HEIGHT: 179cm WEIGHT: 89kg REP HONOURS: 13 Tests NZ (2012-14); Four Nations (2014); World Cup (2013); NRL Nines (2014-15); Junior Kiwis (2010) PREVIOUS CLUBS: Nil NRL GAMES: 83 (201 1-14), 412 pts (37 tries, 130 goals, 4 field goals)
SOLOMONE KATA
VILIAMI KAVEINGA
DATE OF BIRTH: December 3, 1994 BIRTHPLACE: Neiafu, Tonga JUNIOR CLUB: Sacred Heart College (rugby union) POSITION: Centre/Wing HEIGHT: 177cm WEIGHT: 97kg REP HONOURS: NRL Nines (2014-15), Tonga Under-21 (rugby union) CLUB & FIRST-GRADE DEBUT: Yet to make debut NYC GAMES: 26 games (2013-14), 132 pts (19 tries, 28 goals)
DATE OF BIRTH: June 20, 1994 BIRTHPLACE: Auckland, NZ JUNIOR CLUB: Mangere East Hawks POSITION: Fullback/Wing HEIGHT: 180cm WEIGHT: 87kg REP HONOURS: NZ Residents 18s (201 1-12) PREVIOUS CLUBS: Nil CLUB & FIRST-GRADE DEBUT: Yet to make debut NYC GAMES: 13 games (2013-14), 8 pts (2 tries)
NGANI LAUMAPE #180
THOMAS LEULUAI #105
DATE OF BIRTH: April 22, 1993 BIRTHPLACE: Palmerston North, NZ JUNIOR CLUB: Feilding Falcons POSITION: Centre/Wing HEIGHT: 178cm WEIGHT: 97kg REP HONOURS: NRL Nines (2014-15), Junior Kiwis (2013); NZ Residents 18s (201 1) PREVIOUS CLUBS: Nil NRL GAMES: 30 (2013-14), 44 pts (1 1 tries)
DATE OF BIRTH: June 22, 1985 BIRTHPLACE: Auckland, NZ JUNIOR CLUBS: Papatoetoe Panthers, Otahuhu Leopards POSITION: Halfback/Standoff/Hooker HEIGHT: 176cm WEIGHT: 86kg REP HONOURS: 33 Tests NZ (2003-14); World Cup (2008 & 2013); Four Nations (2009-1 1, 2014) PREVIOUS CLUBS: Vodafone Warriors (2003-04); London Broncos (2005); Harlequins (2005-06); Wigan (2007-12) NRL GAMES: 57 (2003-04 & 2013-14), 32 pts (8 tries)
JACOB LILLYMAN #146
SAM LISONE
DATE OF BIRTH: March 7, 1984 BIRTHPLACE: Richmond, Qld JUNIOR CLUB: Richmond Tigers POSITION: Prop HEIGHT: 182cm WEIGHT: 105kg REP HONOURS: 8 games Queensland (2006-08, 201 1, 2014) PREVIOUS CLUBS: North Queensland (2003, 2005-08) NRL GAMES: 186 (2003-14), 32 pts (8 tries)
DATE OF BIRTH: February 19, 1994 BIRTHPLACE: Auckland, NZ JUNIOR CLUBS: Otahuhu Leopards POSITION: Prop HEIGHT: 184cm WEIGHT: 104kg REP HONOURS: NRL Nines (2015); Junior Kiwis (2014); Residents 18s (201 1-12) PREVIOUS CLUBS: Nil CLUB & FIRST-GRADE DEBUT: Yet to make debut NYC GAMES: 50 games (2013-14), 68 pts (16 tries)
TUIMOALA LOLOHEA (#192)
SIONE LOUSI (#159)
DATE OF BIRTH: January 23, 1995 BIRTHPLACE: Auckland, NZ JUNIOR CLUB: Marist Saints POSITION: Standoff/Fullback HEIGHT: 177cm WEIGHT: 89kg REP HONOURS: NRL Nines (2014-15); Junior Kiwis (2013); NZ Residents 18s (2012-13) PREVIOUS CLUBS: Nil NRL CAREER: 3 games (2014), 0 pts
DATE OF BIRTH: October 8, 1989 BIRTHPLACE: Auckland, NZ JUNIOR CLUBS: Richmond Rovers, Bay Roskill Vikings POSITION: Prop/Second Row/Loose Forward HEIGHT: 191cm WEIGHT: 106kg REP HONOURS: 1 Test Tonga (2010); NRL Nines (2014-15) PREVIOUS CLUBS: Nil NRL GAMES: 42 (2010-14), 12 pts (3 tries)
SUAIA MATAGI (#181)
BEN MATULINO #142
DATE OF BIRTH: March 23, 1988 BIRTHPLACE: Auckland, NZ JUNIOR CLUB: Te Atatu Roosters, Mt Albert Lions POSITION: Prop HEIGHT: 183cm WEIGHT: 105kg REP HONOURS: 1 Test NZ (2014); Four Nations (2014); 5 Tests Toa Samoa (2013-14); NRL Nines (2014-15); World Cup (2013); NZ Residents (2009-12) PREVIOUS CLUBS: Nil NRL GAMES: 35 (2013-14), 4 pts (1 try)
DATE OF BIRTH: January 3, 1989 BIRTHPLACE: Lower Hutt, NZ JUNIOR CLUB: Te Aroha Eels POSITION: Prop HEIGHT: 193cm WEIGHT: 107kg REP HONOURS: 19 Tests NZ (2009-13); World Cup (2013); NRL Nines (2015); Four Nations (2009-1 1) PREVIOUS CLUBS: Nil NRL GAMES: 152 (2008-14), 52 pts (13 tries)
NRL PLAYER PROFILES CONTINUED ON next page
VODAFONE WARRIORS | WE ARE YOUR TEAM
VODAFONE WARRIORS | WE ARE YOUR TEAM
48 warriors.kiwi NRL PLAYER PROFILES CONTINUED FROM p47
KEN MAUMALO
JOHN PALAVI #188
DATE OF BIRTH: July 16, 1994 BIRTHPLACE: Auckland, NZ JUNIOR CLUB: Papatoetoe Panthers POSITION: Centre/Wing HEIGHT: 191cm WEIGHT: 105kg REP HONOURS: NRL Nines (2015); Residents 18s (2012) PREVIOUS CLUBS: Nil CLUB & FIRST GRADE DEBUT: Yet to make debut NYC GAMES: 28 games (2013-14), 44 pts (1 1 tries)
DATE OF BIRTH: July 31, 1992 BIRTHPLACE: Auckland JUNIOR CLUB: Richmond Rovers POSITION: Second Row/Loose Forward HEIGHT: 187cm WEIGHT: 103kg REP HONOURS: Junior Kiwis (201 1) PREVIOUS CLUBS: Nil NRL CAREER: 2 games (2014), 0 pts
NATHANIEL PETERU
API PEWHAIRANGI
DATE OF BIRTH: January 1, 1992 BIRTHPLACE: Auckland, NZ JUNIOR CLUB: Glenora Bears POSITION: Prop HEIGHT: 190cm WEIGHT: 106kg REP HONOURS: Nil PREVIOUS CLUBS: Nil CLUB & FIRST GRADE DEBUT: Yet to make debut NSW CUP: (Vodafone Warriors): 9 games (2014), 4 pts (1 try)
DATE OF BIRTH: March 19, 1992 BIRTHPLACE: Palmerston North, NZ JUNIOR CLUB: Te Aroha Eels POSITION: Centre/Standoff HEIGHT: 184cm WEIGHT: 93kg REP HONOURS: 2 Tests Ireland (2013); Junior Kiwis (2012) PREVIOUS CLUBS: Parramatta (2013) NRL CAREER: 4 games (2013), 0 pts
DOMINIQUE PEYROUX #182
SAM RAPIRA #131
DATE OF BIRTH: January 21, 1989 BIRTHPLACE: Auckland, NZ JUNIOR CLUBS: Otahuhu Leopards, Mangere East Hawks, Papatoetoe Panthers POSITION: Utility HEIGHT: 185cm WEIGHT: 97kg REP HONOURS: 2 Tests Samoa (2014); Four Nations (2014); 8 Tests Cook Islands (2009-10 & 2013); World Cup (2013), NRL Nines (2014) PREVIOUS CLUBS: Gold Coast (201 1-12) NRL GAMES: 32 (201 1-14), 26 pts (4 tries)
DATE OF BIRTH: April 8, 1987 BIRTHPLACE: Hamilton, NZ JUNIOR CLUB: Hukanui POSITION: Prop HEIGHT: 184cm WEIGHT: 105kg REP HONOURS: 13 Tests Kiwis (2007-1 1); World Cup (2008) PREVIOUS CLUBS: Nil NRL GAMES: 169 (2006-14), 56 pts (24 tries)
BODENE THOMPSON
SAM TOMKINS
DATE OF BIRTH: August 1, 1988 BIRTHPLACE: Tauranga, NZ JUNIOR CLUB: Tauranga City Sharks POSITION: Second Row/Centre HEIGHT: 188cm WEIGHT: 107kg REP HONOURS: NRL Nines (2014-15); Four Nations (2014); NZ Maori (2010) PREVIOUS CLUBS: Gold Coast Titans (2009-12); Wests Tigers (2013-14) NRL GAMES: 85 (2009-14), 64 pts (16 tries )
DATE OF BIRTH: March 23, 1989 BIRTHPLACE: Milton Keynes, England JUNIOR CLUBS: Chorley Panthers, Wigan St Patrick's POSITION: Fullback/Standoff HEIGHT: 180cm WEIGHT: 83kg REP HONOURS: 25 Tests England (2009-14 ); World Cup (2013); Four Nations (2009-1 4); NRL Nines (2014-15) PREVIOUS CLUBS: Wigan (2008-13) NRL GAMES: 24 (2014), 52 pts (13 tries)
CHAD TOWNSEND #186
MANU VATUVEI #115
DATE OF BIRTH: January 10, 1991 BIRTHPLACE: Sydney, NSW JUNIOR CLUB: Yarrawarrah Tigers POSITION: Halfback/Standoff HEIGHT: 181cm WEIGHT: 89kg REP HONOURS: Junior Kangaroos (201 1) PREVIOUS CLUB: Cronulla (201 1-13) NRL GAMES: 38 (2011-14), 106 pts (6 tries, 42 goals)
DATE OF BIRTH: March 4, 1986 BIRTHPLACE: Auckland, NZ JUNIOR CLUB: Otara Scorpions POSITION: Wing HEIGHT: 189cm WEIGHT: 107kg REP HONOURS: 27 Tests NZ (2005-14); World Cup (2008 & 2013); All Golds (2008); Tri Nations (2005-06); Four Nations (2010, 2014); NRL All Stars (2010, 2012, 2015); NRL Nines (2015) PREVIOUS CLUBS: Nil NRL GAMES: 194 (2004-14), 540 pts (1 3 5 tries)
ALBERT VETE
JONATHAN WRIGHT
DATE OF BIRTH: January 24, 1993 BIRTHPLACE: Auckland , NZ JUNIOR CLUB: St Kentigern College (rugby union) POSITION: Prop HEIGHT: 188cm WEIGHT: 1 10kg REP HONOURS: Junior Kiwis (2013) PREVIOUS CLUBS: Nil CLUB & FIRST GRADE DEBUT: Yet to make debut NSW CUP: (Vodafone Warriors): 19 games (2014), 8 pts (2 tries)
DATE OF BIRTH: March 8, 1987 BIRTHPLACE: Gilgandra, NSW JUNIOR CLUB: Northern Lake Warriors POSITION: Centre/Wing HEIGHT: 187cm WEIGHT: 98kg REP HONOURS: Nil PREVIOUS CLUBS: Parramatta (2009-10); Canterbury-Bankstown (201 1-12); Cronulla (2013-14) NRL GAMES: 91 (2009-14), 1 12 pts (28 tries )
Proud Footwear Partner 1995. Proud Footwear Partner 2015.
VODAFONE WARRIORS | WE ARE YOUR TEAM
50 warriors.kiwi
AROUND THE 16 NRL CLUBS |
ARRIVED AND DEPARTED BRONCOS |
BULLDOGS |
COWBOYS |
DRAGONS |
EELS |
KNIGHTS |
PANTHERS |
RABBITOHS |
RAIDERS |
ROOSTERS |
SEA EAGLES |
SHARKS |
STORM |
TITANS |
VODAFONE WARRIORS |
WESTS TIGERS |
IN: Adam Blair (Tigers), Darius Boyd (Knights), James Gavet (Tigers), Anthony Milford (Raiders), Travis Waddell (Knights). OUT: Ben Barba (Sharks), Jake Granville (Cowboys), David Hala (Titans), Ben Hannant (Cowboys), Josh Hoffman (Titans), Martin Kennedy (Roosters).
IN: Beau Champion (Rabbitohs), Richie Fa’aoso (out of retirement), Reece Robinson (Raiders), Brad Takairangi (Titans), Anthony Watmough (Sea Eagles), Danny Wicks (reinstated). OUT: Mitchell Allgood (Hull Kingston Rovers), Daniel Harrison (London Broncos), Jarryd Hayne (NFL), Fuifui Moimoi (Leigh), Lee Mossop (Wigan), Ken Sio (Hull Kingston Rovers), Ben Smith (retired), Kelepi Tanginoa (Cowboys), Willie Tonga (Les Catalans).
IN: Blake Austin (Tigers), Frank-Paul Nu’uausala (Roosters), Iosia Soliola (St Helens), Sisa Waqa (Storm), Sam Williams (Les Catalans). OUT: Matthew Allwood (Vodafone Warriors), Terry Campese (Hull Kingston Rovers), Tom LearoydLahrs (Storm), Matt McIlwrick (Roosters), Anthony Milford (Broncos), Reece Robinson (Eels), Lagi Setu (Roosters), Brett White (retired).
IN: Dale Finucane (Bulldogs), Blake Green (Wigan), Tom Learoyd-Lahrs (Raiders). OUT: Ryan Hoffman (Vodafone Warriors), Junior Moors (Castleford), Bryan Norrie (retired), Justin O'Neill (Cowboys), Ben Roberts (Castleford), George Rose (Dragons), Sisa Waqa (Raiders).
IN: Antonio Kaufusi (Huddersfield), Michael Lichaa (Sharks), Brett Morris (Dragons), Curtis Rona (Cowboys). OUT: Mitch Brown (Sharks), Michael Ennis (Sharks), Dale Finucane (Storm), Reni Maitua (Featherstone Rovers).
IN: Tariq Sims (Cowboys), Carlos Tuimavave (Vodafone Warriors). OUT: Darius Boyd (Broncos), Adam Cuthbertson (Leeds), Michael Dobson (Salford), Matt Hilder (retired), Josh Mantellato (Hull Kingston Rovers), Willie Mason (Sea Eagles), Timana Tahu (retired), Travis Waddell (Broncos).
IN: Blake Ferguson (reinstated), Martin Kennedy (Broncos), Willie Manu (St Helens), Matt McIlwrick (Raiders), Lagi Setu (Raiders). OUT: Remi Casty (Les Catalans), Heath L'Estrange (Dragons), Anthony Minichiello (retired), Daniel Mortimer (Titans), Frank-Paul Nu'uausala (Raiders), Sonny Bill Williams (rugby union).
IN: David Hala (Broncos), Josh Hoffman (Broncos), Eddy Pettybourne (Wigan), Matt Robinson (Panthers), Ryan Simpkins (Panthers). OUT: Luke Bailey (retired), Maurice Blair (Hull Kingston Rovers), Ashley Harrison (retired), Albert Kelly (Hull Kingston Rovers), Steve Michaels (Hull FC), Mark Minichiello (Hull FC), Brad Takairangi (Eels).
IN: Jake Granville (Broncos), Ben Hannant (Broncos), Justin O'Neill (Storm), Kelepi Tanginoa (Eels). OUT: Curtis Rona (Bulldogs), Ashton Sims (Warrington), Tariq Sims (Knights), Brent Tate (retired), Ricky Thorby (Queensland Cup).
IN: Apisai Koroisau (Rabbitohs), Tupou Sopoaga (Sharks). OUT: Tim Grant (Rabbitohs), Kevin Kingston (retired), Eto Nabuli (Dragons), Kevin Naiqama (Tigers), Wes Naiqama (London Broncos), James Roberts (Titans), Matt Robinson (Titans), Ryan Simpkins (Titans).
IN: Luke Burgess (Rabbitohs), Willie Mason (Knights), Feleti Mateo (Vodafone Warriors). OUT: Daniel Harrison (London Broncos), Jason King (retired), Epalahame Lauaki (Bradford Bulls), Glenn Stewart (Rabbitohs), Anthony Watmough (Eels).
IN: Matthew Allwood (Raiders), Ryan Hoffman (Storm), Bodene Thompson (Tigers), Jonathan Wright (Sharks). OUT: Jayson Bukuya (Sharks), Sam Lousi (rugby union), Feleti Mateo (Sea Eagles), Dane Nielsen (Dragons), Agnatius Paasi (Titans), Jerome Ropati (retired), Carlos Tuimavave (Knights).
IN: Kris Keating (Hull Kingston Rovers), Heath L'Estrange (Roosters), Eto Nabuli (Panthers), Dane Nielsen (Vodafone Warriors), George Rose (Storm). OUT: Gerard Beale (Sharks), Matt Groat (Salford), Brett Morris (Bulldogs), Kyle Stanley (Sharks), Sam Williams (Raiders), Michael Witt (retired).
IN: Tim Grant (Panthers), Daryl Millard (Les Catalans), Glenn Stewart (Sea Eagles). OUT: Luke Burgess (Sea Eagles), Sam Burgess (rugby union), Beau Champion (Eels), Apisai Koroisau (Panthers), Nathan Merritt (retired), Joe Picker (retired), Ben Te’o (rugby union).
IN: Ben Barba (Broncos), Gerard Beale (Dragons), Mitch Brown (Bulldogs), Jayson Bukuya (Vodafone Warriors), Michael Ennis (Bulldogs), Kyle Stanley (Dragons). OUT: Todd Carney (Les Catalans), Isaac De Gois (Eels), Bryce Gibbs (retired), Michael Lichaa (Bulldogs), John Morris (retired), Beau Ryan (retired), Tupou Sopoaga (Panthers), Jonathan Wright (Vodafone Warriors).
IN: Kevin Naiqama (Panthers). OUT: Braith Anasta (retired), Blake Austin (Raiders), Adam Blair (Broncos), Liam Fulton (retired), James Gavet (Broncos), Cory Paterson (Salford), Bodene Thompson (Vodafone Warriors).
VODAFONE WARRIORS | WE ARE YOUR TEAM
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VODAFONE WARRIORS TRY-SCORING RECORD HOLDER MANU VATUVEI WITH HIS DAUGHTER EVA
MILESTONES GALORE LOOM INDIVIDUAL 10 NRL SEASONS Sam Rapira 2006-2015
150 NRL TRIES 135 | Manu Vatuvei
250 NRL GAMES 245 | Ryan Hoffman
200 NRL GAMES FOR CLUB 194 | Manu Vatuvei
200 NRL GAMES 197 | Nathan Friend
186 | Jacob Lillyman
150 NRL GAMES FOR CLUB 124 | Jacob Lillyman
* STATISTICS TO END OF 2014 NRL SEASON
100 NRL GAMES FOR CLUB
500 NRL POINTS
100 NRL GAMES
50 NRL TRIES
85 | Bodene Thompson
37 | Konrad Hurrell
50 NRL GAMES FOR CLUB
TEAM
83 | Shaun Johnson
91 | Jonathan Wright
47 | Ben Henry
42 | Sione Lousi 35 | Suaia Matagi 30 | Sebastine Ikahihifo 30 | Ngani Laumape 24 | Sam Tomkins 24 | Glen Fisiiahi
50 NRL GAMES
38 | Chad Townsend 32 | Dominique Peyroux
412 | Shaun Johnson
37 | Shaun Johnson
500 NRL GAMES 490
250 HOME GAMES 240 • Total comprises 237 regular season games plus three home finals (includes designated home games at Mount Smart Stadium, Eden Park and Westpac Stadium).
200TH NRL PLAYER 192 | 1995-2014
VODAFONE WARRIORS | WE ARE YOUR TEAM
warriors.kiwi 53
NSW CUP | JONES IN CHARGE
STACEY JONES | COACH DATE OF BIRTH: May 7, 1976 BIRTHPLACE: Auckland, New Zealand POSITION: Vodafone Warriors NSW Cup coach PREVIOUS ROLES: Vodafone Junior Warriors coach (2014) Vodafone Junior Warriors junior recruitment and pathways coach (2013), Auckland Rugby League football development officer (2012), Point Chevalier coach (2010-11), Vodafone Warriors skills coach (2008) PLAYING RECORDS: JUNIOR CLUBS: Ponsonby-Maritime, Pt Chevalier (Auckland) NRL CAREER: Vodafone Warriors 1995-2005, 2009 CLUB NUMBER: 24 NRL DEBUT: v Parramatta, Parramatta Stadium, Sydney, April 23, 1995 (Round 7)
NRL CAREER: NRL POINTS: SUPER LEAGUE: SUPER LEAGUE DEBUT:
261 appearances (1995-2005, 2009) 674 (77 tries, 176 goals, 14 field goals) Les Catalans Dragons 2006-2007 Les Catalans v Wigan, Stade Aime Giral, Perpignan, February 11, 2006 (Round 1)
SUPER LEAGUE CAREER: 45 appearances 2006-2007 SUPER LEAGUE POINTS: 133 (11 tries, 43 goals, 3 field goals) TEST DEBUT: v Tonga, Warrington, October 8, 1995 (World Cup) TEST CAREER: 46 tests for Kiwis 1995-2006; 6 tests as captain 2002 and 2006 TEST POINTS: 160 (16 tries, 47 goals, 2 field goals) KIWI NUMBER: 665 AWARDS: EDUCATED:
New Zealand Sports Hall of Fame 2014; Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit 2005; Golden Boot Award 2002; New Zealand Player of the Year 1999, 2001, 2002; Vodafone Warriors Player of the Year 1997. St Paul's College (Auckland)
2015 DRAW | NEW SOUTH WALES CUP DATE MAR 7
TIME OPPOSITION
DATE
Hunter Stadium
TIME OPPOSITION
VENUE
JULY 12
11.45am v Illawarra
Mount Smart Stadium
MAR 14
3.00pm v Canterbury-Bankstown Belmore Sports Ground
JULY 18
3.00pm v Illawarra
WIN Stadium
MAR 21
2.45pm v Wentworthville
Mount Smart Stadium
JULY 25
2.40pm v Manly
Mount Smart Stadium
MAR 28
3.00pm v North Sydney
Mount Smart Stadium
AUG 1
3.00pm v Newtown
Henson Park
APR 5
3.00pm v Wyong
Morrie Breen Oval
AUG 8
3.00pm v North Sydney
North Sydney Oval
Mount Smart Stadium
AUG 15
3.00pm v Wests Tigers
Leichhardt Oval
APR 1 1
2.10pm v Newcastle
VENUE
5.15pm v Wests Tigers
APR 18
3.00pm v Penrith
Pepper Stadium
AUG 22
1.00pm v Penrith
Mount Smart Stadium
APR 25
1 1 .45am v Newtown
Mount Smart Stadium
AUG 29
3.00pm v Mounties
Aubrey Keech Reserve
MAY 9
3.00pm v Manly
Brookvale Oval
MAY 16
12.40pm v Wentworthville
Pirtek Stadium
MAY 31
1 1 .30am v Newcastle
FINALS SEPTEMBER 6-7 Quarter-finals
MAY 23-24 BYE Mount Smart Stadium
SEPTEMBER 13 Semi-finals
JUN 6
1.00pm v Canterbury-Bankstown Mount Smart Stadium No 2
SEPTEMBER 20 Preliminary finals
JUN 13
5.40pm v Wyong
Mount Smart Stadium
SEPTEMBER 27 GRAND FINAL
Mount Smart Stadium
NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP
JUN 20-21 BYE JUN 27
2.40pm v Mounties
JUL 4-5 BYE * Local times are listed.
OCTOBER 4 NSW Cup v Qld Cup
ANZ Stadium
VODAFONE WARRIORS | WE ARE YOUR TEAM
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VODAFONE JUNIOR WARRIORS |
DEFENDING CHAMPIONS
THE 2014 VODAFONE JUNIOR WARRIORS TEAM AFTER WINNING THE GRAND FINAL LAST YEAR.
KELVIN WRIGHT DATE OF BIRTH: November 30, 198 BIRTHPLACE: Auckland, NZ APPOINTED: 2015 PREVIOUS APPOINTMENTS: Kiwi analyst (2014), Junior Kiwis assistant coach (2013-14), Vodafone Warriors NYC assistant coach (2013-14), Bay Roskill coach (2012), Otara coach (2011) PERSONAL NOTE: Out of the Mount Albert club, Kelvin represented New Zealand Residents and Auckland as well as playing in the NSW Cup during his playing career. He served his NYC apprenticeship with John Ackland and Stacey Jones.
2015 NYC PLAYER PROFILES BRADLEY ABBEY
DATE OF BIRTH: December 30, 1996 BIRTHPLACE: Auckland, NZ JUNIOR CLUBS: Pakuranga Jaguars, Richmond Rovers POSITION: Fullback HEIGHT: 185cm WEIGHT: 86kg REP HONOURS: NZ Residents 18s (2013) NYC CAREER: 27 games (2014), 56 pts (14 tries) STUDYING: Business course SECONDARY SCHOOL: St Paul’s College
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BUNTY AFOA DATE OF BIRTH: August 20, 1996 BIRTHPLACE: Auckland, NZ JUNIOR CLUB: Pt Chevalier Pirates POSITION: Prop HEIGHT: 188cm WEIGHT: 98kg REP HONOURS: NZ Residents 18s (2013) NYC CAREER: 26 games (2014), 4 pts (1 try) OCCUPATION: Builder’s assistant SECONDARY SCHOOL: St Paul’s College
VODAFONE WARRIORS | WE ARE YOUR TEAM
warriors.kiwi 55
TOMASI AOAKE
MIKAERE BEATTIE
DATE OF BIRTH: September 6, 1995 BIRTHPLACE: Auckland, NZ JUNIOR CLUB: Mangere East Hawks POSITION: Wing HEIGHT: 182cm WEIGHT: 87kg REP HONOURS: Nil NYC CAREER: 3 matches (2014), 12 pts (3 tries) OCCUPATION: Builder's assistant SECONDARY SCHOOL: Otahuhu College
DATE OF BIRTH: March 31, 1995 BIRTHPLACE: Hamilton, NZ JUNIOR CLUB: Turangawaewae POSITION: Standoff/Halfback HEIGHT: 175cm WEIGHT: 83kg REP HONOURS: NZ Under-17 and Under-19 touch NYC CAREER: 4 games (2014), 0 pts OCCUPATION: Retail assistant SECONDARY SCHOOL: Hamilton Boys’ High School
ERIN CLARK
ISAIAH COOPER-TETEVANO
DATE OF BIRTH: September 6, 1997 BIRTHPLACE: Auckland, NZ JUNIOR CLUBS: Manurewa Marlins, Pt Chevalier Pirates POSITION: Halfback/Standoff HEIGHT: 180cm WEIGHT: 94kg REP HONOURS: NZ Residents 18s (2014), NZ Secondary Schools (2014) NYC CAREER: Yet to make debut STUDYING: Student SECONDARY SCHOOL: Manurewa High School
DATE OF BIRTH: August 12, 1995 BIRTHPLACE: Hamilton, NZ JUNIOR CLUB: Pacific Sharks POSITION: Centre/Second Row HEIGHT: 176cm WEIGHT: 90kg REP HONOURS: NZ Maori (2014) NYC CAREER: Yet to make debut OCCUPATION: Apprentice electrician SECONDARY SCHOOL: Tokoroa High School
MATTAIS HEIMULI
ATA HINGANO
DATE OF BIRTH: October 6, 1996 BIRTHPLACE: Auckland, NZ JUNIOR CLUB: Mount Albert Lions POSITION: Loose Forward HEIGHT: 177cm WEIGHT: 94kg REP HONOURS: NZ Residents 18s (2014) NYC CAREER: 1 game (2014), 0 pts OCCUPATION: Apprentice plumber SECONDARY SCHOOL: Mt Albert Grammar School
DATE OF BIRTH: March 11, 1997 BIRTHPLACE: Auckland, NZ JUNIOR CLUB: Pakuranga Jaguars POSITION: Standoff/Halfback HEIGHT: 183cm WEIGHT: 92kg REP HONOURS: NZ Residents 18s (2014) NYC CAREER: 16 games (2014), 67 pts (4 tries, 25 goals, 1 field goal) OCCUPATION: Community intern SECONDARY SCHOOL: Pakuranga College
TAMATI IOANE-NIKO
MATIU LOVE-HENRY
DATE OF BIRTH: June 26, 1997 BIRTHPLACE: Auckland, NZ JUNIOR CLUB: Mangere East Hawks POSITION: Prop HEIGHT: 188cm WEIGHT: 1 10kg REP HONOURS: Nil NYC CAREER: Yet to make debut STUDYING: Student SECONDARY SCHOOL: De La Salle College
DATE OF BIRTH: October 2, 1995 BIRTHPLACE: Rotorua, NZ JUNIOR CLUB: Taupo Phoenix POSITION: Second Row HEIGHT: 185cm WEIGHT: 100kg REP HONOURS: NZ Residents 18s (2013) NYC CAREER: 8 games (2014), 8 pts (tries) OCCUPATION: Apprentice builder SECONDARY SCHOOL: Te Kura Kaupapa Maori o Whakarewa i Te Reo Ki Tuwharetoa
LEVI McBIRNEY
MARATA NIUKORE
DATE OF BIRTH: July 6, 1996 BIRTHPLACE: Auckland, NZ JUNIOR CLUB: Westlake Boys’ High School (rugby union) POSITION: Centre/Fullback/Wing HEIGHT: 188cm WEIGHT: 92kg REP HONOURS: North Harbour Under-18 (rugby union) NYC CAREER: Yet to make debut STUDYING: Bachelor of Business SECONDARY SCHOOL: Westlake Boys’ High School
DATE OF BIRTH: July 29, 1996 BIRTHPLACE: Auckland, NZ JUNIOR CLUBS: Mangere East Hawks, Howick Hornets POSITION: Centre/Second Row HEIGHT: 188cm WEIGHT: 102kg REP HONOURS: Nil NYC CAREER: 12 games (2014), 16 pts (4 tries) OCCUPATION: Retail assistant SECONDARY SCHOOL: Aorere College
OFAHIKI OGDEN
KOLI ONEONE
DATE OF BIRTH: June 6, 1996 BIRTHPLACE: Auckland, NZ JUNIOR CLUB: Mangere East Hawks POSITION: Prop/Second Row HEIGHT: 192cm WEIGHT: 100kg REP HONOURS: NZ Residents 18s (2013-14) NYC CAREER: 15 games (2014), 8 pts (2 tries) OCCUPATION: Apprentice builder SECONDARY SCHOOL: De La Salle College
DATE OF BIRTH: August 28, 1996 BIRTHPLACE: Auckland, NZ JUNIOR CLUB: Otahuhu Leopards POSITION: Centre/Wing HEIGHT: 194cm WEIGHT: 102kg REP HONOURS: Nil NYC CAREER: Yet to make debut OCCUPATION: Apprentice builder SECONDARY SCHOOL: Otahuhu College
VODAFONE WARRIORS | WE ARE YOUR TEAM
56 warriors.kiwi JUNIOR PAUGA
SHELDON PITAMA
DATE OF BIRTH: February 3, 1996 BIRTHPLACE: Auckland, NZ JUNIOR CLUB: Glenora Bears POSITION: Fullback/Wing/Centre HEIGHT: 185cm WEIGHT: 85kg REP HONOURS: NZ Secondary Schools (2014) NYC CAREER: Yet to make debut OCCUPATION: Community Intern SECONDARY SCHOOL: Kelston Boys’ High School
DATE OF BIRTH: January 13, 1996 BIRTHPLACE: Christchurch, NZ JUNIOR CLUB: Northern Bulldogs POSITION: Hooker HEIGHT: 175cm WEIGHT: 88kg REP HONOURS: NZ Residents 18s (2013) NYC CAREER: 5 games for Melbourne (2014), 0 pts OCCUPATION: Apprentice plumber SECONDARY SCHOOL: Rangiora High School
JOSEPH PRICE
NATHANIEL ROACHE
DATE OF BIRTH: February 24, 1996 BIRTHPLACE: Auckland, NZ JUNIOR CLUB: Mangere East Hawks POSITION: Loose Forward HEIGHT: 183cm WEIGHT: 92kg REP HONOURS: NZ Residents 18s (2014) NYC CAREER: 1 game (2014), 0 pts STUDYING: Police course SECONDARY SCHOOL: Otahuhu College
DATE OF BIRTH: April 15, 1994 BIRTHPLACE: Auckland, NZ JUNIOR CLUB: Mount Albert Lions POSITION: Utility HEIGHT: 180cm WEIGHT: 90kg REP HONOURS: NZ Residents 18s (2013) NYC CAREER: 24 (2014), 32 pts (8 tries) OCCUPATION: Retail assistant SECONDARY SCHOOL: Mt Albert Grammar School
TOAFOFOA SIPLEY
WESLEY TAUTI
DATE OF BIRTH: January 5, 1995 BIRTHPLACE: Auckland, NZ JUNIOR CLUB: Richmond Rovers POSITION: Prop/Second Row HEIGHT: 188cm WEIGHT: 116kg REP HONOURS: NZ Residents 18s (2013) NYC CAREER: 34 games (2013-14), 28 pts (7 tries) STUDYING: Bachelor of Education SECONDARY SCHOOL: St Paul's College
DATE OF BIRTH: May 31, 1995 BIRTHPLACE: Auckland, NZ JUNIOR CLUB: Otahuhu Leopards POSITION: Centre/Wing HEIGHT: 180cm WEIGHT: 91kg REP HONOURS: Nil NYC CAREER: 3 games (2014), 4 pts (1 try) STUDYING: Police course SECONDARY SCHOOL: Otahuhu College
JAZZ TEVAGA
ROMAN TUHIMATA
DATE OF BIRTH: September 4, 1995 BIRTHPLACE: Auckland, NZ JUNIOR CLUBS: Papakura Sea Eagles POSITION: Loose Forward/Hooker HEIGHT: 178cm WEIGHT: 90kg REP HONOURS: Nil NYC CAREER: 20 games (2014), 12 pts (3 tries) OCCUPATION: Builder’s assistant SECONDARY SCHOOL: Papakura High School
DATE OF BIRTH: August 2, 1995 BIRTHPLACE: Auckland, NZ JUNIOR CLUB: Papakura Sea Eagles POSITION: Prop HEIGHT: 190cm WEIGHT: 105kg REP HONOURS: Nil NYC CAREER: Yet to make debut OCCUPATION: Promotions director SECONDARY SCHOOL: Rosehill College
PAUL TULI
SEMISI TYRELL
DATE OF BIRTH: April 2, 1995 BIRTHPLACE: Auckland, NZ JUNIOR CLUBS: Mangere East Hawks POSITION: Prop HEIGHT: 185cm WEIGHT: 1 18kg REP HONOURS: NZ Residents 18s (2013) NYC CAREER: 6 games (2014), 0 pts STUDYING: Certificate in Education SECONDARY SCHOOL: De La Salle College
DATE OF BIRTH: February 10, 1995 BIRTHPLACE: Auckland, NZ JUNIOR CLUB: Mangere East Hawks POSITION: Utility HEIGHT: 182cm WEIGHT: 102kg REP HONOURS: NZ Residents 18s (201 1) NYC CAREER: 10 games (2014), 20 pts (5 tries) OCCUPATION: Apprentice builder SECONDARY SCHOOL: Sir Edmund Hillary Collegiate
PAUL ULBERG
TIAAN WILKINS
DATE OF BIRTH: November 14, 1995 BIRTHPLACE: Wellington, NZ JUNIOR CLUB: Porirua Vikings POSITION: Centre/Wing HEIGHT: 178cm WEIGHT: 86kg REP HONOURS: NZ Residents 18s (2013) NYC CAREER: 14 games (2014), 24 pts (6 tries) OCCUPATION: Community development SECONDARY SCHOOL: Aotea College
DATE OF BIRTH: January 5, 1997 BIRTHPLACE: Auckland, NZ JUNIOR CLUB: Papatoetoe Panthers POSITION: Fullback/Wing HEIGHT: 188cm WEIGHT: 93kg REP HONOURS: NZ Residents 18s (2014) NYC CAREER: Yet to make debut OCCUPATION: Warehouse assistant SECONDARY SCHOOL: Aorere College