Rotorua Boys' High School 1988 first XV celebrate reunion

Rotorua Boys' High School 1988 First XV captain Michael Rogers (left) with current Rotorua Boys' High School First XV captain Tuki Simpkins, 16. Photo/Stephen Parker

Past first XV players from 1988 have the chance to check out what is new for rugby at Rotorua Boys' High School, while cheering on the current team, during a team reunion this weekend.

Rotorua Boys' High School's 1988 first XV captain Michael Rogers, who had travelled from Sydney for the reunion, said the weekend involved them being welcomed back to the high school and shown around the facilities - which has changed a lot over the past 30 years.

The 1988 team had also donated a trophy, which they would present to the winner of today'sgame against Palmerston North Boys' High School, he said.

Rogers said that while watching the game the returning players would wear reunion jerseys the school had for them.

He said their first XV team in 1988 had been above average, winning about eight games, drawing one and losing about three.

Rogers said the many changes over the years included the high-tech facilities, especially coaching, television reviews and the catering.

"They are just a professional outfit now. They're 100 per cent more professional.

"These guys, I think, are alot more aware of who they are playing for and against."

He said they did not have the likes of School Challenge, Top Four and World Championships in 1988.

Rogers said the school had also embraced Māori culture.

Players have returned to Rotorua Boys' High School from all over, including England, Perth, Sydney and Brisbane.

"It was nice coming back to the school and catching up with the guys."

Current Rotorua Boys' High School first XV captain Tuki Simpkins, 16, said it felt special and amazing to have the 1988 team there for its reunion.

"They still have this close bond. We have this special bond, and hopefully we can catch up 30 years down the track as well. It's really cool."