Bay of Plenty Steamers visit Aorangi School

Bay of Plenty rugby players have given back to their community, spending time with young and old, inspiring hard work.

Four members of the Bay of Plenty Steamers visited schools, a rugby club and Rotorua Hospice yesterday. The pupils in Aorangi Primary School's Room 7 were one group treated to a visit from players Jeff Thwaites, Sabastian Siataga, Mitchell Karpik and Richard Judd.

Room 7 teacher Karen Anderson said it was a great opportunity for the children.

"A lot of them don't get the opportunity to go to the games. This might be the first time seeing them in person."

Anderson said the pupils had been excited for the visit, whether they played rugby or not.

Bay of Plenty Steamer Mitchell Karpik spends some time with students at Aorangi School. Photo/Ben Fraser

Tyler Donoghue, 10, said he had never been a rugby fan but was excited when he heard about the visit.

"I was like 'wow'. I was excited to hear they were coming. I've never been a fan but I like the Steamers."

Siataga said it was exciting visiting the community.

"I know as a kid when you see sporting figures it's exciting. The kids enjoy having us around and they are full of energy," he said.

"There are so many kids talking about being sporting stars but we're reminding them it's not a walk in the park."

The players also visited Te Puke High School, Eastern Suburbs Preschool, Glenholme Primary School, Rotorua Hospice and Greerton Marist Junior Rugby Club.

The Steamers' opening game is on August 18 at Rotorua International Stadium against Taranaki.