The Eastern Bay will have strong representation at tomorrow night’s Battle of the Clubs in Tauranga.

The event at Trust Arena will feature nine Eastern Bay fighters: Koby Savage (Matatā), Jade Marshall (Poroporo), Tomm Mason (Tāneatua), Helena Coughlan (Ōpōtiki), Piurangi Holt (Te Teko), Hami Smith (Pāroa), Zaane Walker (Edgecumbe), Waha Mika (Rūātoki) and Dan Biddle-Hunuhunu (Waimana).

Last year, this region took the $10,000 prize for fight of the night thanks to a superb showing from Tāneatua’s Sitiveni Kutalele.

Another $10,000 is on the line this year and Eastern Bay people are urged to attend the event and vote for their club.

Whakatāne Fight Club’s Carl Cowley, who worked with Kutalele last year, has again been tasked with looking after the Eastern Bay fighters.

“All of them have been training well and made huge improvements since we started in December,” he said.

“They all now look like they know what they’re doing. I’m pleased with their progress.”

Cowley said last year was a fantastic event and he expects even better this year.

“The lighting, sound and production for this tournament is world class and is on par with what you will see on TV with some of the biggest shows in the world. It’s a great night.”

This year, the event has been changed slightly to give more clubs

a go.

Cowley said last year, clubs could enter up to two competitors, but from this year, entry is limited to one fighter from each club.

“I’m really pleased with the amount of EBOP clubs represented this year.

“Big ups to these guys and girls who have put their hand up for the challenge. Many consider it, but only a few follow through.”

There are many exciting matchups scheduled, including Paroa’s Smith who will face Jake McKean from Mount Maunganui

“Both boys are around 120kg and are in good shape,” Cowley said.

There are also three professional fights scheduled between the amateur fights.

Cowley said it was great to see women included for the first time this year.

“Jade’s opponent is very experienced and has quite a reputation as a boxer. Although this is Jade’s first fight, she has picked up the techniques and strategies needed to negate the lack of experience. I’m confident she will do well, win or lose.”

He encourages supporters to get along and watch the fights so they can vote for their club to win $10,000.

“Like last year, the winners of each of the 11 BOTC fights are the only ones eligible to win their rugby club the $10,000. Once all winners are determined, there is an online voting system for those in the crowd at that time. They all have just a few minutes to vote for their favourite winner. Essentially, whoever has the most supporters and fans in the crowd at that time gets the $10,000.