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A full weekend of festivities are planned to celebrate the Tomarata Rugby Club’s centenary this weekend.
Celebrations will start on Friday, May 8, at 5.30pm with a junior sub-union rally, bringing together young players from Wellsford, Mangawhai, Eastern and Tomarata. Children from Under-7 through to Under-11 grades will take part, followed by a prizegiving ceremony.
The evening will continue with a mix-and-mingle event from around 7.30pm, offering former players, supporters and visitors a chance to reconnect. Attendees are expected from across the North Island, with several past players also travelling from Australia to join the occasion.
Saturday’s programme will centre around the official centenary lunch, beginning at 11am. The event will be hosted by MC Craig Couling, with guest speakers lined up to reflect on the club’s long history.
Following the lunch, attention will shift to the field for a showcase of Golden Oldies rugby, featuring a rematch of games played during the recent Wellsford Rugby Club centenary.
At 2.30pm, Tomarata’s senior side will face a local Barbarians team in what promises to be a highlight of the weekend.
The traditional hangi will be served at 5pm, with attendees invited to share memories and stories. Celebrations will continue into the evening with a dance.
The weekend will conclude on Sunday with an informal morning tea, providing a final opportunity for photographs and farewells.
Several club legends are expected to attend at various points during the celebrations, including Brian Pool, Rodney Woodcock, Lloyd Roberts, Doug McIntyre and Tom Jackson.
