Rugby: Big stage beckons youngsters

Rotorua Gold's Tyrhys Werahiko makes a break during a match against Whakatane at the weekend. Photo/Stephen Parker

It is not every day young players like Tyrhys Werahiko get to show off their rugby skills at an international stadium.

Tyrhys is part of the Rotorua Gold team currently competing at the Tai Mitchell tournament in Rotorua.

The under-13 rugby tournament, first staged in 1938, is being held at Rotorua International Stadium this year.

Hundreds of young boys like Tyrhys have been given the opportunity to run out on to the stadium and play for their home town.

Most of the boys are relishing the opportunity, playing some great rugby and enjoying the occasion.

Tyrhys was just one of many standout players on Saturday, scoring two long-range tries in a tight match against Whakatane.

Rotorua Gold coach Boxer Smith said the tournament was a great event for young rugby players like Tyrhys.

"Just getting the opportunity to play in this tournament and run out on an international field is awesome," he said. "It's just gaining that experience and it is all about exposure."

Unfortunately for Rotorua Gold, they are unlikely to make the semifinals.

Smith said they had a young side, compared to a lot of the other teams, and they were certainly learning from the experience this year.

Round robin matches continue today at the stadium with the playoffs being played tomorrow and Wednesday.

The top four sides on the ladder leading into today's matches are Tauranga West, Tauranga East, Whakatane, and Rangitaiki. Rotorua Maroon and Te Puke are also still in the hunt for a semifinal berth.

Points table after four rounds: Tauranga West 20, Tauranga East 18, Whakatane 16, Rangitaiki 15, Rotorua Maroon 13, Te Puke 11, Opotiki 6, Rotorua Gold 6, Galatea 0, Apanui 0.