Rugby: Local clubs hold many aces

Taniwha head coach Richie Harris is pleased with the talent coming out of Northland's club rugby scene.

Northland's new ITM Cup coach has given the region's club rugby scene a tick of approval, although there is room to improve.

Incoming Taniwha coach Richie Harris has been pleased with the level of club rugby he has seen to date, saying clubs seem to be doing a good job with what they have got.

"It's encouraging to see a number of younger players participating," Harris says

It's Harding Shield time again.

"It is great that the more experienced players are actively lending encouragement and wisdom. This relationship is key to the success of club rugby and development of the game.

"Club coaches are doing a terrific job presenting players and teams who compete each week with a great attitude, sometimes with stretched resources."

However, Harris can easily see the difference in players who are prepared and want to go further.

Players with higher fitness levels tended to have a greater influence on the match because they could keep up for longer, he added.

"Certainly players who have prepared themselves physically, particularly from a fitness perspective, stand out over the course of a game. Add to that technical accuracy around the core skills of running, catch/pass, tackle and kicking and this becomes the challenge for players who have the desire to continue on a rugby pathway beyond club rugby."

Another aspect of Northland club rugby which had caught Harris' attention was the spectator support.

He noted clubs tended to have strong turnouts, which was encouraging for the players involved and for the Taniwha side later in the year.

"The amount of support teams are getting from their fans is outstanding and shows the passion which exists in Northland club rugby."

As Harris looks to build towards the ITM Cup season opener, a Ranfurly Shield clash with Hawke's Bay on August 16, tomorrow's Harding Shield match at Waipu will be of particular interest.

The match will be between defending champions Whangarei and Northern Wairoa/Rodney at 7.30pm at Waipu's Caledonian Park.