Rugby League

St Paul's College 1st XIII vs St Gregory's (Sydney)

The 1st XIII hosted St Gregory's Catholic College during the school holidays. St Gregory's are a Marist College based in Western Sydney, who have a proud rugby league history with such alumni as James Tedesco, Trent Robinson, Trent Barrett, Ryan Hoffman and more. 

The game was highly competitive with, St Paul's running out eventual winners 20-10. 1st XIII Coach Alan Ettles praised St Gregory's style of play, asking questions of the St Paul's defence with well-organised shape and a typical Australian fast and smart style of play. 

Both teams enjoyed snacks and prize giving after the game where St Gregory's awarded Ezekiel Davidson Fa'aiuaso (Year 13) their player of the day. This was an ideal pre-season game for St Paul's, played in sunny conditions, making for a dry and fast field on St Paul's #1.

St Paul's College 38  - 6 Mt Albert Grammar

It was a positive start to the ARL College Rugby League season for our young men in the 1st XIII. They won 38-6 against a valiant team from Mt Albert Grammar. Our forwards were dominant and laid a platform for our halves and outside backs to work their magic. 

Congratulations to all of our debutants who showed that they belong and are more than capable of doing well in this arena. Man of the match - George Alatini (Year 12), Runner up - Bronson Fisiiahi (Year 11) and Coach's choice - Sebastian Smith (Year 13). Tries: Romana Whitiora (Year 13), George Alatini, Frehdlo Tupai Porter (Year 11), Bronson Fifiiahi, Sebastian Smith, Siokatame Kali (Year 12) and William Fotu (Year 11). Goals: Siokatame x2 and Jayden Veitch-Tamati (Year 12) x2. 

Rugby Union

St Paul's 1st XV Shows Heart in 1A Opener

St Paul’s College 1st XV opened their 2024 Auckland 1A Rugby season with a spirited performance against reigning champions and fellow Marist College, Sacred Heart College. Although narrowly defeated 17-10, the young team, featuring 11 debutants including three standout Year 11s, impressed with their defensive grit, attacking flair, and resilience under pressure. 

A thrilling 70-metre try from Tane Keereweer-Taia (Year 12) ignited the crowd and gave St Paul’s early momentum, while solid performances from players like Uli Toki Fisiifetau (Year 12) highlighted the team’s potential. The narrow loss underscored the promise and determination of this developing squad. It was also heartening to see a strong presence of Old Boys and Marist Brothers in the crowd, whose support added to the spirit and mana of the occasion.

With lessons learned and confidence growing, St Paul’s now looks ahead to another great challenge: an away clash with 2024 1A champions Kelston Boys’ High School. We look forward to support on Saturday 10 May at 2:30pm at Kelston Boys High School.