Ōpōtiki ‘s hosting of the annual Tai Mitchell rugby tournament could not have gone better.

After previously hosting the tournament in 2016, Ōpōtiki again welcomed teams from Galatea, Rotorua, Rangitaiki, Whakatāne and Tauranga across five action packed days last week.

Proceedings started with a stirring opening ceremony on Wednesday, followed by the opening round of games.

The Ōpōtiki boys may not have had the success they were after, managing a win only against Galatea, but the tournament had it all – outstanding skills, fabulous teamwork, tremendous behaviour, super support and even some wild weather at times.

The Ōpōtiki boys and girls were awarded the Lyn Preston Trophy for pride and presentation throughout the week.

Manager Ngaio Paruru said the boys made their province incredibly proud with their efforts over the week.

“We came ninth, beating our brothers from Galatea, 27-24. We also came away, both Ōpōtiki boys and girls, with the Lyn Preston award for best presented team of the tournament.

“Although a hard tournament, it was a successful one for our boys as we hosted a well-run tournament thanks to our local sponsors, many volunteers and our Tai Mitchell committee.”

She said the boys fought until the final whistle in all their matches, no matter the result.

“The boys were tired and bruised but overall enjoyed every experience Tai Mitchell threw at them across five days. We are definitely looking forward to wrapping up our campaign with a bit of fun in a few weeks, that’s for sure.”

Ōpōtiki girls’ manager Vicki Onekawa said they showed they could compete against some of the top teams.

“Our girls gave it everything they had and fought hard in every game, finishing the tournament in seventh place. While it wasn’t the result we were hoping for, we are incredibly proud of every single one of them.”

She said it was positive for the future as many were new to rugby.

“For many of our girls, this was their very first time playing rugby, and they absolutely loved every minute of it. Watching their confidence, skills, and love for the game grow throughout the campaign has been amazing.

“Thank you to our coaches, managers, supporters, sponsors, whānau, and everyone who stood behind our girls. Your encouragement and support meant the world.

“We’re proud to be Ōpōtiki and excited for next year.”

Making the Bay of Plenty Wasps Boys team were Noah Phillips, of Galatea, Ōpōtiki’s Ty Collier, Kendrick Sili from Rangitaiki and Whakatāne’s Taane Tiwha-Smith.

Rotorua Maroon won the girls section, while Te Puke took home the boys’ grade.