2011
Vodafone Warriors // YOUR 2011 NRL OFFICIAL SEASON GUIDE
www.warriors.co.nz
Contents // 24 Your team, your draw
11 History on the Coast
26 Arrivals and departures
15 Dialled into iPhones
28 The players – NRL
16 What Price, Steve?
34 The trials – NRL
17 Beating new drum
36 The players – NYC
19 New-look champions
43 The trials – NYC
20 Home is… SKYCITY
44 Full 2011 NRL draw
22 Canterbury Tales
46 Growing the game
www.warriors.co.nz | VODAFONE WARRIORS | PAGE 3
4 Battle of Eden
EDITOR
PUBLISHER
COPYRIGHT
Richard Becht
J Oliver Lee & Associates Ltd PO Box 331-667, Takapuna, Auckland, New Zealand
Reproduction in whole or part by any means is prohibited.
PHOTOGRAPHY Photosport
DESIGN/LAYOUT Mervyn Hurley hurley new zealand limited Telephone 021 273 9991
MANAGING EDITOR
PRINTER
Oliver Lee
PMP Print
Phone 0-9-486 6966
email: oliverlee@xtra.co.nz
DISCLAIMER The opinions expressed in this magazine do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. Although material is checked for accuracy, no liability is assumed by the publisher for any loss due to use of material in this magazine.
where shall we go for our next occasion? dinners, school balls, conferences and exhibitions... It’s all here! Mt Smart Function Centre specialises in all events. Refer to www.mtsmartstadium.com for full details or call 09-366 2000 ext 8784.
www.warriors.co.nz | VODAFONE WARRIORS | PAGE 4
All braced for ‘Battle of Eden’ INTENSE COMPETITION FOR SPOTS AS VODAFONE WARRIORS FACE MOUTH-WATERING START TO 2011 NRL SEASON
All NRL coaches go into every season with a similar wish list.
The same isn’t true in 2011.
Surviving the trials with no injuries is always one of them. So is having a
For one, the Vodafone Warriors thankfully emerged from their four-game
squad with depth across all positions and, with it, serious competition for
trials schedule with all front-line contenders in seemingly sound shape
playing spots.
for the club’s eagerly-awaited season-opening ‘Battle of Eden’ against
Vodafone Warriors coach Ivan Cleary hasn’t regularly had the best fortune
Parramatta at Eden Park on Saturday, March 12.
on the injury front heading into a new campaign and he has invariably found
Having a fit squad to pick from is one thing, though; having quality
his resources a little thin in at least one or two positions.
contenders in numbers in all positions is quite another. No Now Cleary knows he has both as he looks to name his first side of the year at the Vodafone Warriors’ se season launching breakfast at SKYCITY on Tu Tuesday (March 8). N one, least of all Cleary, is saying a fit squad No an quality playing depth guarantees success and in any NRL season – but it’s certainly a handy s starting point. I Indeed Cleary made a telling comment after the V Vodafone Warriors had lost their final trial 12-14 t Manly on February 26, the club’s first defeat to in a preseason match in three years. As he eyed his sixth season in charge, he said he had never known so much competition for spots, a position he sees as critical to the club’s wellbeing for the rigours of the season ahead. Whether the ever-present cynics in rugby league land are on the same page is moot. In the recent
es in the ders for a winger’s spot, scor Bill Tupou, one of the conten uth. ymo Gre in le cast New t ins Vodafone Warriors’ trial aga
past they have routinely bemoaned what they
// continued PAGE 8
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www.warriors.co.nz | VODAFONE WARRIORS | PAGE 8
dials in until 2014
an Shaun Berrig Feleti Mateo Steve Rapira
// continued from PAGE 4 have seen as a lack of options in some positions but already they have been heard complaining about having too many options in certain
The blockbuster
areas this season.
at Eden Park
Cleary, though, would much rather have a squad rich in resources
on March 12 is
than one that’s deficient. Memories don’t need to be long to recall how
a unique way to
stretched the Vodafone Warriors were as one injury crisis followed
start as the club
another last year.
seeks to attract
Helping immeasurably to boost the squad with their ability to cover
a huge crowd
various positions are the four big acquisitions in the Parramatta duo
to energise the
of Feleti Mateo and Krisnan Inu, former Brisbane utility Shaun Berrigan
season. If a new-look Parramatta under Kiwi coach Stephen Kearney is a
and tough forward Steve Rapira, back home after two years with North
stern first test – and it will be – then there’s much more to follow with the
Queensland. Players from the club’s 2010 NYC premiership-winning
Benji Marshall-powered Wests Tigers away in the second round followed by
Vodafone Junior Warriors have also strengthened the wider NRL squad,
the first game of the year at Mount Smart Stadium against Wayne Bennett’s
among them Glen Fisiiahi who excelled in the trials. The point here is,
NRL premiers the St George Illawarra Dragons in week three.
Cleary can now pick any position and know he can safely if not confidently
In round four there’s an ‘away’ trip to Taupo to face the rejuvenated Cronulla
name a number of players with claims to play there.
Sharks, bound to be an improved force with Kiwi Jeremy Smith among
Whoever he initially puts his faith in, they’ll all have to be performing at
their number, followed by beaten grand finalists the Sydney Roosters at
optimum to not only retain their places but to help the Vodafone Warriors
Mount Smart.
negotiate an exacting – and unquestionably exciting – first five weeks
Who wouldn’t be excited? Bring on the 2011 NRL season – and bring on
of the season.
the ‘Battle of Eden’.
Milestones in store 200 NRL GAMES
100 NRL GAMES
100 NRL TRIES
194 Micheal Luck
98 Jacob Lillyman
78 Manu Vatuvei
186 Shaun Berrigan
88 Feleti Mateo
150 NRL GAMES 127 Jerome Ropati
78 Krisnan Inu
50 NRL TRIES 49 Lance Hohaia
50 NRL GAMES
47 Jerome Ropati
38 Lewis Brown
36 Krisnan Inu
36 Aaron Heremaia 29 Kevin Locke 28 James Maloney
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Lifting spirits on the West Coast
Four days in February provided the Vodafone Warriors’ NRL staff and players with an experience they’ll never forget. They travelled to the South Island’s West Coast for a charity game against the Newcastle Knights, seeking to raise funds and lift spirits in a community devastated by the Pike River mining disaster which left 29 men dead. Throughout their time there, the players and staff immersed themselves in the community and were left humbled by the welcome they received. Photosport’s Simon Watts was there to capture the historic visit.
r Vodafone Junior Autograph time fo r Matt Robinson rowe Warriors second
www.warriors.co.nz | VODAFONE WARRIORS | PAGE 111
VODAFONE WARRIORS HUMBLED BY RECEPTION FROM LOCALS
www.warriors.co.nz | VODAFONE WARRIORS | PAGE 12
// ONE COMMUNITY – WEST COAST continued from PAGE 11
Will you march with us as a Member?//
“I’ve signed up... Have you?”// +VU»[ TPZZ V\[ VU [OL L_JP[LTLU[ ZLJ\YL `V\Y WSHJL H[ [OL ,KLU 7HYR VWLULY HUK IL`VUK ^P[O H =VKHMVUL >HYYPVYZ 4LTILYZOPW
Memberships from//
*
$120
Family membership from//
*
$495 )VVRPUN MLL HWWSPLZ
Join online at www.warriors.co.nz z
Call 0800 839 839
Steve Price Member No 3636//
Proudly produced under licence by
JOIN NRL.COM FOR FREE MEMBER BENEFITS
OFFICIAL LICENSED PRODUCT
©ICON 6765 CCC
www.warriors.co.nz | VODAFONE WARRIORS | PAGE 166
Price right for new role FORMER VODAFONE WARRIORS CAPTAIN SIGNS ON AS MEMBERSHIP AMBASSADOR Steve Price might have finished his NRL playing days but he’s very much part of the Vodafone Warriors mix in 2011 after being signed up as the club’s first membership ambassador. And just as he did carting the ball up so many times during his career as Vodafone Warrior No 121, Price is throwing himself into his new challenge as Vodafone Warriors member No 3636. With the new season fast approaching, Price’s presence has been more noticeable fronting a campaign to sign up more Vodafone Warriors members. He has been hitting the phones to talk to members and prospective new ones as well as personally delivering membership packs. It all adds to the personal touch as the Vodafone Warriors seek to enhance the value of the membership experience. Price says he’s committed to ensuring Vodafone Warriors members enjoy their status among a unique group of fans marching to a different beat. He’ll be in attendance at all major members’ exclusive events, promotional activities and functions. He’ll also attend away games to promote the new Road Warrior and Kiwi Proud membership packages aimed at giving fans from outside Auckland – and in Australia – the chance of being part of the club.
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Helping Kiwis get ahead
Marching to a new beat
REAL ESTATE SUCCESS
Logan Swann Licensee Salesperson REAA (2008)
VODAFONE WARRIORS TAILOR NEW MEMBERSHIP PROGRAMME
New initiatives are succeeding in growing the Vodafone Warriors’ membership base. Becoming a club member provides an experience that is more than just being a supporter. In 2011, the Vodafone Warriors have introduced new packages and benefits to make it even easier to become a member and provide more options. New options include general admission seating packages, new pricing in both the Northern Embankment and the South Stand and the creation of
Phone: 09 523 6507 Mobile: 021 220 5401 Email: logan.swann@raywhite.com The last 12 months I have been involved in the real estate industry with great success. I have listed and sold a number of properties in different areas throughout Central Auckland and the Eastern Suburbs. A high percentage of my sales have come from my personal database, which has enabled me to get great prices for the people who have chosen me to sell their property. Real estate, like rugby league, is a challenging game. I’ve been able to use the resources of the Ray White Group, linked with my personal determination, to succeed in the real estate industry. If you are thinking about selling or buying property I would be more than happy to be able to assist you.
a premium covered family membership. The club has also strengthened the membership programme with a range of new benefits and privileges which are exclusive to members. With memberships starting from only $120 and family memberships
LD
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LD
SO
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LD
(two adults and three children) starting from $495, a Vodafone Warriors membership also provides fantastic value while bringing members closer than ever to the club. These initiatives, combined with the launch of a new away membership programme, have led to a solid lift in overall numbers as the Vodafone Warriors count down to their NRL season-opening ‘Battle of Eden’ against
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the Parramatta Eels at Eden Park next Saturday night (March 12). It’s all part of the Vodafone Warriors’ membership drive based on the slogan: ‘Become a 2011 club member – march to the beat of a different drum’. “Whether they live in New Zealand or Australia, we want every Vodafone Warriors fan to feel like they’re part of this great club and have the chance
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to be a valued member,” said Vodafone Warriors chief executive Wayne Scurrah. “We want to provide a total experience which separates members from supporters by providing benefits and privileges only members can enjoy.”
Package details // To be part of the excitement in 2011, book your Vodafone Warriors membership on www.warriors.co.nz, call 0800 839 839 or visit the club’s offices at Mount Smart Stadium.
“GO THE MIGHTY WARRIORS”
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TNT Express. Proud sponsor of the Vodafone Warriors. Terms and Conditions: Entries must be received by 5pm Tuesday 8 March 2011. Full terms and conditions available on www.tnt.co.nz/warriors
www.tnt.co.nz/warriors
VODAFONE JUNIOR WARRIORS ALSO START TITLE DEFENCE WITH NEW SPONSORS
As the 2010 season was winding down Daryl John was just another fan
all played for the Junior Kiwis against the Junior Kangaroos while injury
having a shot at designing a new strip for the Vodafone Junior Warriors to
ruled Henry out of contention.
wear in 2011.
But the loss of players who turned 20 last year necessarily means a new
Now some six months later the Te Aroha sign writer and avid Vodafone
breed will emerge in 2011 as coach John Ackland seeks to build on the
Warriors supporter will be able to proudly watch his creation go on public
club’s outstanding efforts in the NYC competition’s first three years in
display every week of the NYC season as the Vodafone Junior Warriors
existence. In 2008 the Vodafone Junior Warriors were seconds away from
defend their honour as the club’s first-ever grand final winners.
reaching the grand final, they made the play-offs again in 2009 and finished
John beat off everyone else to win a design-a-jersey competition jointly run
second in the minor premiership last year before overpowering South
by sponsors Vodafone and Canterbury of New Zealand, resulting in him not
Sydney in the grand final to win the Toyota Cup. Their splendid efforts in the
only claiming a trip to the NRL’s 2010 grand final day – and watching the
regular season – together with those of the NRL squad – had earlier helped
Vodafone Junior Warriors win – but also providing the blueprint for the kit
the club to secure the Club Championship Trophy for the first time.
the team will debut in their season-opening clash against the Parramatta
Also new in 2011 are a number of the team’s main sponsors. Vodafone is
Eels at Eden Park on March 12.
very much to the forefront as usual and Greenstuf is again on the shorts
The design is a big statement about the team’s origin, captured in the
but elsewhere the club has welcomed four newcomers to its NYC sponsors.
green fern imagery which features on the lower half of the jersey. The
Major courier operator TNT Express is on board as the new sleeve sponsor
main colours of the kit have been reversed for the away strip.
while the team’s new front of the shorts sponsor is dtr, which offers rental,
If the jersey is brand new so, too, are many other aspects concerning
hire purchase and business leasing options on a wide range of household
the team’s latest campaign. John Ackland remains as coach and some of
goods and appliances.
the leading players in the 2010 squad are still eligible to play in the NYC
Irvines will have its branding on the back of the Vodafone Junior Warriors’
including captain Ben Henry, winger Omar Slaimankhel, centre Sosaia Feki,
shorts and will also supply Irvines Pies on game days at Mount Smart
standoff Carlos Tuimavave, back rowers Sam Lousi and Sebastine Ikahihifo
Stadium while DEWALT, renowned for its range of power tools, has signed
plus hooker Henry Chan-Ting. Of that group Tuimavave, Lousi and Ikahihifo
as the back of the jersey sponsor.
www.warriors.co.nz | VODAFONE WARRIORS | PAGE 199
New look for 2010 champions
www.warriors.co.nz | VODAFONE WARRIORS | PAGE 20
Home of the Vodafone Warriors SKYCITY GOES TO ANOTHER LEVEL FOR VODAFONE WARRIORS MEMBERS AND FANS SKYCITY is the place to be for all Vodafone Warriors members and fans
again set down for SKYCITY next Tuesday (March 8), this time in the shape
in 2011. After signing a major sponsorship deal with the club last year,
of a breakfast event at which Vodafone Warriors head coach Ivan Cleary
SKYCITY has become the ‘Home of the Vodafone Warriors’ for the next
will reveal the team for the club’s first NRL match of the year, the ‘Battle of
three years, rolling out the welcome mat for all members and fans to
Eden’ against Parramatta at Eden Park next Saturday night (March 12).
gather for after-match functions.
After the historic contest, the players and staff will head back to SKYCITY
Players, staff and supporters were given a preview of the future after
to join Vodafone Warriors members and supporters for the first after-match
last season’s final home game against Brisbane, a huge gathering and
function of the year.
memorable night at SKYCITY following a big win at Mount Smart Stadium.
It was at SKYCITY late last year that the Vodafone Warriors were involved
The name of Auckland’s iconic entertainment centre now appears on the
in one of the most rewarding One Community events in the club’s history –
back of the Vodafone Warriors’ jersey, the only newcomer on the NRL kit
the Kidz First Christmas Party, hosted by SKYCITY, a venture that brought
with principal sponsor Vodafone on the front and across the shoulders
the Vodafone Warriors together with their new sponsor and also one of their
as usual, Canterbury of New Zealand’s famous CCC logo on the front,
major charity partners Kidz First Children’s Hospital. The players joined
Lion Red on the sleeves, HiFX on the front of the shorts and Suzuki and
in the fun of the day with 200 Kidz First day-care children and caregivers
Greenstuf on the back (Greenstuf is an insulation product manufactured
along with Auckland Mayor Len Brown, champion shot putter Valerie
by team sponsor Autex).
Adams, boxer Shane Cameron, newsreader Wendy Petrie and players from
Vodafone Warriors chief executive Wayne Scurrah said the club was elated
the Black Ferns, Blues and Counties Manukau rugby union teams.
to have SKYCITY among its family of sponsors along with new backers of
While SKYCITY is the major new sponsor now associated with the
the Vodafone Junior Warriors (TNT on the sleeves, DEWALT on the back
Vodafone Warriors’ NRL side, Powerade has been signed as the club’s
of the jersey, dtr on the front of the shorts and Irvines and Greenstuf on
new sports hydration supplier and NRG Strength Bands has also come
the back of the shorts).
on board supplying balance bands to all football staff and players.
“All our sponsors give us tremendous support and we’re really grateful for the faith they have in the Vodafone Warriors,” he said. He confirmed a range of the club’s big events will be held at SKYCITY from now on. The Vodafone Warriors’ annual awards dinner and season launches have been fixtures there in recent years; indeed the 2011 season launch is
Feleti Mateo (left), Lance Hohaia, Simon Mannering, Manu Va tuvei and Krisnan Inu pose with one of th e Vodafone Warrior s’ new fleet of Suzuki Grand Vitaras.
Official sponsor of the Warriors
LNZ0101
BEER OF MEN
New kit for ‘Battle of Eden’ www.warriors.co.nz | VODAFONE WARRIORS | PAGE 22
CANTERBURY UNVEILS VODAFONE WARRIORS RANGE FOR 2011 Vodafone Warriors fans don’t want for choice when it comes to dressing up
Canterbury, Lion Red, SKYCITY, HiFX, Suzuki and Greenstuf – have
to support their team.
agreed to allow their logos to appear in white rather than their usual colours.
And once again Canterbury of New Zealand has stepped up with a range of
The new kit was officially launched in February amid a blaze of publicity
team wear and street wear which ranks with the best and the most popular
via numerous media channels including the breakfast shows on most of the
in the NRL.
commercial radio stations. Vodafone Warriors vice-captain Micheal Luck
When Canterbury first became the club’s apparel supplier for the 2009 season
dropped in on hosts on The Radio Network’s stations to present them with
it raised the bar with exceptional sales of its first Vodafone Warriors jersey,
gift packs containing their own personally-named special edition Eden Park
the black and white design now in circulation for the third season as the NRL
jersey and two tickets to the historic match. He stopped in to chat at Radio
side’s No 1 strip. That year the jersey was the hottest seller on the market.
Hauraki, Classic Hits, Flava, RadioSport and NewstalkZB, giving the jersey and the ‘Battle of Eden’ ample exposure.
Since then Canterbury has created heritage strips and one-off designs which have also sold strongly and it has created a stunning special
Later that same morning the Vodafone Warriors trained at Eden Park for
edition number for the Vodafone Warriors to wear in their season-opening
the first time in the club’s history, attracting a big attendance from all key
‘Battle of Eden’ against the Parramatta Eels at Eden Park on March 12.
media organisations.
To mark the historic occasion, the Vodafone Warriors will be kitted out
It might have been the week leading up to the Blues’ first outing in the new
in a predominantly black ensemble broken up by splashes of white to
Super Rugby competition but the Vodafone Warriors were the first football
create a powerful visual impression. All the NRL kit sponsors – Vodafone,
team to have a run on Eden Park in Rugby World Cup year. With Vodafone Warriors logos and ‘Battle of Eden’ imagery showing on the big screens
See the full range // Go www.warriors.co.nz/merchandise to see the full range available from Playbill at Mount Smart Stadium. VODAFONE WARRIORS MEMBERS ARE ENTITLED TO A 10 PER CENT DISCOUNT ON PURCHASES.
at the ground above them, captain Simon Mannering and 2011 signings Shaun Berrigan, Feleti Mateo and Krisnan Inu later posed for a photo shoot in the new kit. When the Vodafone Warriors make their first appearance of the year at Mount Smart Stadium, they could be back in their regular home kit ag against 2010 premiers the St George Illawarra Dragons on Sunday, M March 27 but for their next home game against the Sydney Roosters on Saturday, April 9 they’ll change again. It’s the annual Heritage R Round and, for that occasion, the Vodafone Warriors will be d decked out in a stylish strip full of national flavour incorporating the colours of the flag, the stars of th the Southern a the Union Jack. Cross and Canterbury has also produced a new range of street wear for 2011 available aat its outlets and al also through the Vo Vodafone Warriors’ me merchandise sup supplier Playbill.
DEWALT, a global leader in high-end industrial power tools, are proud to announce their sponsorship of the Vodafone Warriors for 2011. DEWALT sees strong similarities between the GUARANTEED TOUGH nature of its Power Tools and Accessories and the tough, no quarter given style of Rugby League and the Warriors Brand. This sponsorship is the spearhead of what is a renewed focus on DEWALT in NZ as it gears up for a massive year of exciting new product launches and activity. DEWALT – Guaranteed Tough and proud sponsors of the Vodafone Warriors.
For all the latest new product info, promotions and news visit: www.DEWALT.co.nz
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Auckland 1332AM Christchurch 1017AM Wellington 1503AM l Ashburton 702AM Blenheim 98.5FM Dunedin 693AM Greymouth 89.9FM Hamilton 792AM Invercargill 558AM Kapiti 1377AM Masterton 91.9FM Napier 1125AM Nelson 549AM New Plymouth 774AM Palmerston North 1089AM Rotorua 1350AM Taupo 90.4FM Tauranga 1521AM Timaru 1494AM Upper Hutt 89.3FM Whanganui 1062AM Whangarei 729AM
Arrived: Dane Carlaw (Les Catalans), Ben Hannant (Bulldogs). Left: Israel Folau (AFL), Ashton Sims (Cowboys), Tariq Sims (Cowboys), Antonio Winterstein (Cowboys)
Arrived: Greg Eastwood (Leeds), Trent Hodkinson (Sea Eagles), Kris Keating (Eels), Michael Lett (Dragons), Grant Millington (Sharks), Frank Pritchard (Panthers), Aiden Tolman (Storm), Matthew Wright (Eels). Left: Yileen Gordon (Panthers), Blake Green (Hull Kingston Rovers), Ben Hannant (Broncos), Brett Kimmorley (retired), Luke Patten (Salford), Tim Winitana (Panthers). Arrived: Gavin Cooper (Panthers), Dallas Johnson (Les Catalans), Ben Jones (Roosters), Ashton Sims (Broncos), Tariq Sims (Broncos), Brent Tate (Vodafone Warriors), Ricky Thorby (Dragons), Antonio Winterstein
Arrived: Blake Ferguson (Sharks), Mark Ioane (Vodafone Warriors), Matt Orford (Bradford), Brett White (Storm). Left: Justin Carney (Roosters), Marc Herbert (Bradford), Brett Kelly (Avignon), Scott Logan (Collegians), Adam Mogg (retired), Joel Monaghan (resigned), Troy Thompson (Storm). Arrived: Justin Carney (Raiders), Mark Riddell (Wigan), Lama Tasi (Sea Eagles), Anthony Watts (Cowboys). Left: James Aubusson (released), Ben Jones (Cowboys), Nick Kouparitsas (Harlequins), Brad Murray (Eels), Lopini Paea (Les Catalans). Arrived: Nil. Left: Chris Bailey (Harlequins), Ben Farrar (Les Catalans), Trent Hodkinson (Bulldogs), Josh Perry (St Helens), Lama Tasi (Roosters).
(Broncos). Left: Willie Mason (Hull Kingston Rovers), Luke O’Donnell (Huddersfield), Steve Rapira (Vodafone Warriors), Arana Taumata (Panthers), Anthony Watts (Roosters), Carl Webb (Eels), John Williams (Sharks), Ty Williams (retired). Arrived: Adam Cuthbertson (Sharks). Left: Neville Costigan (Knights), Beau Henry (Knights), Michael Lett (Bulldogs), Junior Paulo (Panthers), Luke Priddis (retired), Jarrod Saffy (Super Rugby), Jeremy Smith (Sharks), Ricky Thorby (Cowboys). Arrived: Jordan Atkins (Titans), Chris Hicks (Warrington), Casey McGuire (Les Catalans), Reni Maitua (suspension), Manase Manuokafoa (Cowboys), Brad Murray (Roosters), Chris Walker (Les Catalans), Carl Webb (Cowboys), Paul Whatuira (Huddersfield). Left: Nathan Cayless (retired), Krisnan Inu (Vodafone Warriors), Kris Keating (Bulldogs), Feleti Mateo (Vodafone Warriors), Timana Tahu (released), Jonathan Wright (Bulldogs). Arrived: Neville Costigan (Dragons), Beau Henry (Dragons), Siuatonga Likiliki (Vodafone Warriors), Kyle O’Donnell (Sharks), Steve Southern (Cowboys). Left: Ben Cross (Leeds), Scott Dureau (Les Catalans), Steve Simpson (Knights), Cooper Vuna (Super Rugby). Arrived: Yileen Gordon (Rabbitohs), Junior Paulo (Dragons), Nafe Seluini (Vodafone Warriors), Arana Taumata (Cowboys), Tim Winitana (Bulldogs). Left: Maurice Blair (Storm), Gavin Cooper (Cowboys), Shane Elford (retired), Wade Graham (Sharks), Frank Pritchard (Bulldogs). Arrived: George Burgess (Bradford), Greg Inglis (Storm). Left: Colin Best (Sharks), Luke Capewell (Titans), Beau Champion (Storm), Jaiman Lowe (Storm).
Arrived: Colin Best (Rabbitohs), Wade Graham (Panthers), Jeremy Smith (Dragons), Ryan Tongia (Titans), John Williams (Cowboys). Left: Trent Barrett (retired), Luke Covell (retired), Adam Cuthbertson (Dragons), Blake Ferguson (Raiders), Grant Millington (Bulldogs), Kyle O’Donnell (Knights), Reece Williams (retired). Arrived: Maurice Blair (Panthers), Beau Champion (Rabbitohs), Jaiman Lowe (Rabbitohs), Elijah Niko (Vodafone Warriors), Troy Thompson (Raiders), Adam Woolnough (year off). Left: Brett Finch (Wigan), Ryan Hoffman (Wigan), Greg Inglis (Rabbitohs), Jeff Lima (Wigan), Aiden Tolman (Bulldogs), Brett White (Raiders). Arrived: Luke Capewell (Rabbitohs). Left: Jordan Atkins (Eels), Mat Rogers (retired), Ryan Tongia (Sharks), Aaron Cannings (released).
Arrived: Shaun Berrigan (Hull FC), Pita Godinet (Auckland Vulcans), Saulala Houma (Mount Albert Lions), Krisnan Inu (Eels), Feleti Mateo (Eels), Steve Rapira (Cowboys). Left: Patrick Ah Van (Bradford), Ian Henderson (Les Catalans), Mark Ioane (Raiders), Siuatonga Likiliki (Knights), Elijah Niko (Storm), Steve Price (retired), Jesse Royal (retired), Nafe Seluini (Panthers), Brent Tate (Cowboys). Arrived: Nil. Left: Daniel Fitzhenry (Southcity), Tame Tupou (Redcliffe).
www.warriors.co.nz | VODAFONE WARRIORS | PAGE 27
Major 2011 signings
www.warriors.co.nz | VODAFONE WARRIORS | PAGE 28
NRL Player Profiles Vodafone Warriors Simon Mannering
Ivan Cleary COACH Born: March 1, 1971 Appointed: 2006 Playing Record: 15 first grade games for Manly (92-93); 37 for Norths (94-95), 81 for Roosters (96-99), 53 for Warriors (00-02) Premiership Coaching Record: Games 126 Wins 61 Losses 62 Draws 3 Win Percentage: 48.41% Premierships: Nil. Grand Finals: Nil. Finals Series: 3 (2007, 2008, 2010). Achievements: Won NSW Premier League grand final with Roosters (2004); guided Warriors to NRL finals three of last four seasons.
CAPTAIN Date of Birth: August 28, 1986 Birthplace: Napier, NZ Junior Club: Wellington Orcas Position: Second Row Height: 190cm Weight: 103kg Previous Clubs: Nil Rep Honours: 24 Tests for Kiwis 2006-10, Junior Kiwis 2004 NRL Games: 118 (2005-10), 124 points (31 tries) Achievements: Appointed Vodafone Warriors captain in late 2009, youngest in club’s history; 92 consecutive NRL appearances between 2006 and 2009; in Kiwi teams that beat Australia in 2008 World Cup and 2010 Four Nations finals; 2008 Vodafone Warriors player of the year.
Shaun Berrigan
Lewis Brown
Date of Birth: November 4, 1978 Birthplace: Brisbane, Qld Junior Club: Wests-Mitchelton Juniors Position: Hooker/Centre/Halfback/Standoff Height: 178cm Weight: 87kg Previous Clubs: Brisbane Broncos, Hull FC Rep Honours: 15 matches for Qld 02-07, 14 Tests for Australia 04-07 NRL Games: 186 (1999-07), 308 points (77 tries)
Date of Birth: October 3, 1986 Birthplace: Christchurch, NZ Junior Club: Riccarton Knights Position: Second Row/Centre Height: 179cm Weight: 97kg Previous Clubs: Auckland Vulcans, Wests Tigers, Balmain-Ryde, Sydney Roosters Rep Honours: Kiwis 10, Kiwi train-on squad 09, NZ Maori 10 NRL Games: 38 (2009-10), 40 points (10 tries)
Glen Fisiiahi
James Gavet
Date of Birth: December 2, 1990 Birthplace: Auckland, NZ Junior Club: Ellerslie Eagles Position: Fullback Height: 181cm Weight: 85kg Previous Clubs: Nil Rep Honours: Junior Kiwis 2010 NRL Games: Yet to make debut
Date of Birth: October 19, 1989 Birthplace: Auckland, NZ Junior Club: Richmond Rovers Position: Prop Height: 186cm Weight: 105kg Previous Clubs: Auckland Vulcans, Ponsonby (rugby union) Rep Honours: Nil NRL Games: Yet to make debut
Pita Godinet
Ben Henry
Date of Birth: December 21, 1987 Birthplace: Christchurch, NZ Junior Clubs: Sydenham Position: Halfback Height: 177cm Weight: 85kg Previous Clubs: Auckland Vulcans, Woolston, Richmond Rovers Rep Honours: One Test for Samoa 2010 NRL Games: Yet to make debut
Date of Birth: December 14, 1991 Birthplace: Auckland, NZ Junior Club: Glenora Bears, Bay Roskill Vikings Position: Loose Forward/Second Row Height: 185cm Weight: 96kg Previous Clubs: Nil Rep Honours: Nil NRL Games: Yet to make debut
2011 NRL and NYC D Home ROUND 1
www.warriors.co.nz | VODAFONE WARRIORS | PAGE 44
MARCH 11-14
ROUND 2 MARCH 18-21
ROUND 3 MARCH 25-28
ROUND 4 APRIL 1-4
Daylight Saving ends
ROUND 5 APRIL 8-11 HERITAGE ROUND
ROUND 6 APRIL 15-18
ROUND 7 APRIL 22-25 EASTER / ANZAC DAY
Away
Home
Roosters Broncos Warriors Storm Titans Raiders Panthers Bulldogs
v v v v v v v v
Rabbitohs Cowboys Eels Sea Eagles Dragons Sharks Knights Wests Tigers
ROUND 8
Eels Raiders Storm Wests Tigers Cowboys Rabbitohs Roosters Sharks
v v v v v v v v
Panthers Broncos Titans Warriors Knights Bulldogs Sea Eagles Dragons
ROUND 9
APRIL 29-MAY 1
MAY 7-9 Bye: Bulldogs, Eels, Panthers, Rabbitohs, Sharks, Wests Tigers, Knights, Roosters
ROUND 10
Eels Titans Panthers Cowboys Warriors Bulldogs Sea Eagles Wests Tigers
v v v v v v v v
Rabbitohs Broncos Sharks Storm Dragons Roosters Knights Raiders
MAY 13-16
Rabbitohs Broncos Raiders Eels Sharks Knights Roosters Storm
v v v v v v v v
Sea Eagles Panthers Titans Cowboys Warriors Dragons Wests Tigers Bulldogs
MAY 20-23
Cowboys Wests Tigers Warriors Sharks Panthers Storm Dragons Broncos
v v v v v v v v
Titans Rabbitohs Roosters Sea Eagles Raiders Eels Bulldogs Knights
Cowboys Eels Knights Panthers Rabbitohs Roosters Sea Eagles Titans
v v v v v v v v
Raiders Bulldogs Sharks Storm Dragons Broncos Warriors Wests Tigers
Bulldogs Eels Raiders Roosters Sea Eagles Sharks Storm Wests Tigers
v v v v v v v v
Rabbitohs Titans Knights Dragons Panthers Cowboys Warriors Broncos
ROUND 11 Bye: Broncos, Cowboys, Sea Eagles, Storm, Titans, Dragons
ROUND 12 MAY 27-30
Bye: Warriors, Raiders
ROUND 13 JUNE 3-6 QUEENâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S BIRTHDAY WEEKEND
ROUND 14 JUNE 10-13 Bye: Bulldogs, Eels, Rabbitohs, Panthers, Sharks, Knights
ROUND 15 JUNE 17-20
Bye: Roosters, Raiders
Away
Broncos Cowboys Dragons Rabbitohs Raiders Storm Titans Warriors
v v v v v v v v
Bulldogs Sea Eagles Eels Sharks Wests Tigers Knights Roosters Panthers
Broncos Dragons Sea Eagles Warriors
v v v v
Storm Cowboys Raiders Titans
Bulldogs Cowboys Knights Panthers Rabbitohs Sharks Storm Titans
v v v v v v v v
Dragons Eels Warriors Broncos Wests Tigers Roosters Raiders Sea Eagles
Eels Raiders Roosters Warriors Wests Tigers
v v v v v
Sharks Bulldogs Knights Rabbitohs Panthers
Bulldogs Cowboys Dragons Knights Panthers Sea Eagles Storm
v v v v v v v
Titans Roosters Wests Tigers Eels Rabbitohs Broncos Sharks
Bulldogs Eels Rabbitohs Raiders Roosters Sharks Titans Wests Tigers
v v v v v v v v
Sea Eagles Dragons Storm Cowboys Warriors Broncos Panthers Knights
Broncos Dragons Sea Eagles Storm Warriors
v v v v v
Raiders Titans Cowboys Roosters Wests Tigers
Broncos Bulldogs Cowboys Knights Rabbitohs Sea Eagles Wests Tigers
v v v v v v v
Dragons Sharks Warriors Panthers Titans Eels Storm
Rugby league’s revival rolls on www.warriors.co.nz | VODAFONE WARRIORS | PAGE 46
NZRL REFLECTS ON SUCCESS AT ALL LEVELS OF THE GAME In just a few years, New Zealand’s rugby league landscape has undergone
Junior Elite Kiwi Roots Camps and Community Roots Camps. Superbly
exceptional change from the elite level right through to the game’s grass
organised by the Tony Kemp-led football department, the community camps
roots base.
– now a regular sight in all zones around the country – have had an almost
The top-line results can’t help but be noticed with the Stephen Kearney-
instant effect of enthusing communities to become heavily involved in the code.
coached Kiwis holding the World Cup and the Four Nations title while
The inclusion of Vodafone Warriors players in camps in Greymouth, Rotorua
Kiwi captain Benji Marshall is the current holder of the Golden Boot as
and Whangarei in February was an added benefit for those communities.
the best player on the planet. If that’s not enough, the Kiwi Ferns are also
While the net result of the game’s transformation can be tangibly measured
the women’s world champions and seem likely to remain so for some time.
by the silverware the NZRL has in its trophy cabinet, a critical indicator is
The bottom line reads well, too. From a parlous financial position, the
a growth spurt of more than 50 per cent in playing numbers in 2010.
New Zealand Rugby League has been transformed into a profitable
NZRL chief executive Jim Doyle says player data compiled by the NZRL
organisation in little time at all, posting a positive 2009 result and reporting
showed participation numbers had climbed by 52 per cent since 2009 with
another healthy surplus on its 2010 operations.
the overall total of players swelling to more than 24,000.
Of special satisfaction for the NZRL has been the growth in playing
“It’s really pleasing for us to see the fantastic growth in the game at grass
numbers, a development which can be attributed significantly to the
roots level,” he said.
targeted concept of reinvigorating grass roots rugby league through
Community Roots Camps // Community Roots Camps are scheduled for Thames, Auckland, Gisborne, Hastings, Hutt City, Manukau, Tauranga, Taupo, Greymouth, Nelson, Otago and Invercargill from now through to mid-April.
“Our mission was to rebuild the game from the bottom, a job we started in earnest with the launching of our strategic plan in September 2009. “Tony Kemp and the football department have performed outstandingly as they strive to create pathways for our players. There is tremendous talent in this country as well as in Australia and we want those players to know there is a pathway for them.”
Go to www.nzrl.co.nz for full details
To help bring about more growth and development across the board, the NZ NZRL again has a full programme of Junior Elite Kiwi Roots camps an and Community Roots Camps scheduled in 2010.
Legends of League Charity Match // Rugby league legends from both sides of the Tasman will band together at Mount Smart Stadium on Thursday night (March 10) to raise funds for the Christchurch earthquake appeal. The Legends of League Charity Match was launched by the New Zealand Rugby League this week with ex-Kiwis Gary Freeman, Monty Betham, Nigel Vagana and Tawera Nikau the key organisers. Originally set down for March 9 it was put forward a day after the police pointed out a clash with the Auckland Cup on March 9. Gates open at 5.00pm, the entertainment starts at 5.30pm and the football action kicks off at 7.00pm.
Kiwis after their The 2010 Four Nations-winning garoos stunning win against the Kan
Tickets are priced at $20 for adults while children (12 and under) are free. There’ll be bucket collections on the night.
NEW ZEALAND
RUGBY LEAGUE
®
Rugby League is coming to a town near you!
The Community Roots Camps are great fun for everyone. If you’re between 5 and 12 years old or a budding coach, then n be sure to come along. The day is packed full with exciting games, ame es, drills and prizes. PLUS have your photo taken with the World Cup p or the Four Nations Trophy and meet some of our NRL stars. FREE &RDFKHV PLQL PRG FHUWL¿FDWLRQ FRXUVH .LZLV UHSOLFD PHUFKDQGLVH DYDLODEOH IRU SXUFKDVH Check out when the next camp is happening near you, or for more information visit www.nzrl.co.nz VENUE
DATE
VENUE
DATE
TSB Hub, Hawera
Sat 26 Feb
Alfriston College, Manukau
Sun 27 March
Highbury Whanau Centre, Palmerston North
Sun 27 Feb
Mitchell Park, Tauranga
Sat 2 April
Rugby League Park, Christchurch
CANCELLED
Taupo
Sun 3 April
Thames High School, Thames
Sat 12 March
Wingham Park, Greymouth
Sat 9 April
Cornwall Park, Auckland
Sun 13 March
Auckland Point School, Nelson
Sun 10 April
Te Wharau School, Gisborne
Sat 19 March
Otago
Sat 16 April
HB Regional Sports Park, Hastings
Sun 20 March
Pelorus Trust Sports House, Hutt City
Sat 26 March
Southland District Rugby League Clubrooms, Invercargill
Sun 17 April
Saturday 12th March, 7.30pm kick off at Eden Park
SEE
LIVE BEFORE THE GAME! ON STAGE AT 7.00PM
Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss the most epic season opener ever! Adult tickets from $20 // Children from $15
Get your tickets now at ticketek.co.nz, 0800 TICKETEK or selected Mad Butcher stores* Season memberships at www.warriors.co.nz (SIHU` 4HUNLYL ,HZ[ 4HU\RH\ 7HWHR\YH .SLU 0UULZ )VVRPUN MLL TH` HWWS`