GBHS begin season today v Mt Maunganui College at the Rectory

Gisborne Boys’ High School First 15 captain Puna Hihi in action against Hamilton Boys’ High School during last year’s Super 8 competition. He will be leading his team today against Mount Maunganui College at the Rectory in the first of eight preseason games before their first tournament match against Palmerston North Boys’ High School on May 25. Picture by Liam Clayton

The 2024 edition of the Gisborne Boys’ High School First 15 begin their season today at home against Mount Maunganui College.

Duane Hihi has returned as GBHS coach and at the helm of a relatively fresh squad featuring a large number of players making their first 15 debut in the 11am game on the Rectory field.

Hihi’s son Puna Hihi is returning as captain and will lead his team from first five-eighth.

His experience with the Poverty Bay development squad last year is expected to translate well on to the paddock in 2024.

New halfback Connor Paenga will be in charge of a forward pack that features four debutants — hooker Oakley Brown-Terekia, locks Tahana Bristowe and Storm De Thier, and blindside flanker Mano Tavake.

They will join seasoned first players Franco Luwig and Whetu McGhee in the front row, openside flanker James McKay and vice-captain and No.8 Luke Bidois.

Joining Paenga in the backs will be new caps Maioha Waru at centre and speedster Isimeli Vono at fullback.

GBHS director of rugby Mark Jefferson said the squad had been training since late November.

They were keen and proud to be representing the school and were looking forward to putting the training into action.

“I think there are close to 13 or 14 debutants.

“It will be a thrill for them to play in front of their school and the local community. It is an added bit of pressure but I am sure they will relish the opportunity.”

“It’s a great opportunity to compete at the highest level of secondary school rugby in New Zealand. You’re competing against the best. We’re only a small little Heartland province but we punch above our weight”

Jefferson said Puna Hihi was a class act.

“He’s a professional beyond his years and the leader of that group, and the boys will follow him really well.

“It’s his fourth year in the first 15, so he knows how it runs.”

• Today’s game is one of eight for GBHS before the Super 8 competition which they start against Palmerston North Boys’ High on May 25.