Rippa rugby: Back-to-back titles for Papamoa kids

Kele Lasaqa with the ball for Greenpark School against Ohope Beach School at the EastPack Baywide Rippa Rugby World Cup held at Paengaroa. Photo / George Novak

Te Akau Ki Papamoa School reigned supreme at the EastPack Baywide Rippa Rugby World Cup held at Paengaroa on Wednesday.

Their 8-1 victory over Omanu in the Year five and six final means back-to-back titles and a trip to Wellington to represent Bay of Plenty at the national tournament from September 11-15.

The finals day was the culmination of three regional tournaments held over three weeks involving 1500 boys and girls from years 3-6 in two grades. The top 12 in both grades from throughout Bay of Plenty came together at Paengaroa.

Te Akau Ki Papamoa coach Tane Bennett says they are stoked and elated with the result.

"Two years in a row for us as a school to bring our year fives and sixes through to win this championship. We have started something special and we now hope to continue it.

"Bay of Plenty is full of talent and we have noticed the step up in the level of rippa rugby between the Western Bay of Plenty tournament and the Baywide.

"Full credit to the organisation and referees ... it has been great to be a part of."

Another Western Bay school triumphed in the year three and four final with Greenpark School beating Central Bay of Plenty qualifier Raumata 8-3.

"It is great we have kids playing rugby for the first time. It is also awesome to see the girls involved," Greenpark coach Darren Leef said.

"It was a great win for Greenpark. I think it is only the second time we have won a Baywide rippa rugby championship. We had a little star in our team, Kele Lasaqa. He will definitely be a name to watch out for in the future. He was our go-to guy, but had great support from the others too."

Bay of Plenty junior rugby development officer Mark Roberts says the combination of good weather, great referees and an awesome attitude from players, parents, supporters and coaches made it a day to remember.

"The day would not of been made possibly if it wasn't for our sponsor EastPack. A massive thank you to them."

EastPack Baywide Rippa Rugby World Cup

Year 5 and 6

Championship final: Te Akau Ki Papamoa 8 v Omanu 1

Plate final: Glenholme 8 v Greenpark 6

Bowl final: Otonga 8 v Allandale 6

Year 3 and 4
Championship final: Greenpark 8 v Raumata 3
Plate final: Te Teko 8 v Otonga 6
Bowl final: Owhata 6 v Broadlands 8