There’s been an increase in player numbers at senior level in the Eastern Bay in 2025.
Whakatāne Town have a Bay 1 men’s team and an over 35s side, while Plains Rangers are in Bay 2 alongside the Ōhope Sharks and Kawerau senior men have made a welcome return to the men’s competition following a season away, which begins tomorrow.
They are starting in Bay 3 and will be hopeful of winning their section. Either Plains Rangers or Ōhope will be looking to come out top in a hotly contested second division, and Whakatāne will be seeking the top spot in the top division.
It’s been a good pre-season for the Sharks, who have recruited well this season.
Sean Owen will be a good addition to the team, while Cal Pirihi and Husnul Gray have come across from Whakatāne Town and add some firepower.
Joseph Cairns, one of the best players in the region is back again, while Quinn McNabb starred last year.
Fjord Hagger and Jon Barnes are two others who add stability to the Sharks, while Matt Hyaman’s versatility could be valuable and Jordan Ogilvy’s goal-scoring ability.

Their pre-season results have been positive and they’re hopeful of kicking on from last season and making improvements on the field.
Whakatāne Town have again assembled a settled division 1 side with the likes of Cam Wills, Reuben Whittaker, Jared McLaughlin, Tyler Warren and Ricky Owen giving the team stability.

In the social team, there are plenty of new players to look out for including the return of George Dalgity.

Rangers have strong numbers and expect Hamish Wilde and James Hart to be key figures again.

Kawerau have a new look team this year which does feature some familiar faces.
“We have been getting good numbers, and everyone is really keen and looking forward to the season. Our club is really happy to have a senior team back after a few years,” said Kawerau Sports coach Robbie Mitchell.

First up for Whakatāne Town is a clash at home at Rex Morpeth Park against rivals Papamoa, while Ōhope host Te Puke United Bay 2 at Bluett Park. Plains Rangers host Ngongotaha Bay 2 at the Edgecumbe Domain and Kawerau Sports are away to Waipuna.

Whakatāne’s social men’s team are also at Rex Morpeth Park with a clash against Papamoa over 35s.
Meanwhile, Whakatāne Town’s women’s team begin their campaign on Sunday with a match against Lakes FC Bay Women down in Rotorua, while the Plains Rangers women invite Tauranga City Wolves to the Domain.