The Auckland Junior team to compete at the Junior National Inter-District Teams Champs in Christchurch from 5-6 October has been named.  The Boys side will aiming for a fifth consecutive title, while the Girls will be wanting to claim the title for their own this year after sharing the spoils with Central in 2019.  

Both teams remained largely unchanged from 2019, with the only change in the Boys side being Mason Smales coming in for club-mate Apa Fatialofa Jr.  There is plenty of experience in the side led by national Elite squad members Elijah Thomas, Leo Fatialofa, Jack Conder, and Mason Smales.  Tarin Love rounds out the strong side.

The Girls also has a familiar feel to it, with national representatives Natalie Sayes and Ella Lash leading the way and joined by Ashlee Pepper, Georgia Fyfe, and Maia Smales.  Smales will be making her debut for the team, with Anne Leakey originally named but unfortunately having to withdraw due to injury.  

All players will compete in the National Individual Age Group Championships prior to the teams event.  The team will be coached by Manu Yam. 

Full Auckland Team
Elijah Thomas (Eden Epsom)
Leo Fatialofa (Henderson)
Jack Conder (Titirangi)
Mason Smales (Henderson)
Tarin Love (Eden Epsom)

Natalie Sayes (Remuera)
Ella Lash (Belmont Park)
Ashlee Pepper (Belmont Park)
Georgia Fyfe (Eden Epsom)
Maia Smales (Henderson)

Coach: Manu Yam

Article added: Wednesday 16 September 2020