Taupo to host NZ U19 tournament
New Zealand Rugby (NZR) have confirmed an inaugural 2014 National Under-19 Tournament would be held in Taupo from Saturday, September 27 to Saturday, October 4.
The tournament will comprise of 16 seeded teams, determined from regional qualifying tournaments and feature one team from each NPC provincial union, a second team from Auckland, due to their strong player numbers, and a representative team from the 12 Heartland unions.
NZR GM Professional Rugby Neil Sorensen said the tournament would feature the best Under-19 school leavers nationally competing against each other in a week-long event.
“Following hot on the heels of hosting the IRB Under-20 Junior World Championships in June, the Taupo tournament will showcase some of country’s best young rugby talent, many of whom will no doubt go on to play rugby at the highest level.
"We’re excited about having the tournament in Taupo and appreciate the great support we have had from the local council and provincial union to stage the event,” said Sorensen.
Taupo Mayor David Trewavas said the region was delighted NZR have chosen Taupo as the venue for this tournament.
“We have worked hard to gain a reputation as the events capital of New Zealand and are looking forward to welcoming the many players, management, family, friends and supporters from the length and breadth of the country.
"We will be doing all we can to ensure that this tournament will be one to remember,” said Mayor Trewavas.
As well as playing host to on-field action, NZR will also run a variety of development seminars for players, coaches and management during the week.
