SHARP SHOOTER
Fast-paced traditional game heats up
With 11 teams involving 180 players, all vying for a place at the national champs, the Manawatu secondary school kıo-rahi tournament was high on action.
The fast-paced traditional Ma ori ball game took place on four circular fields at Te Hotu Manawa O Rangitane O Manawatu Marae on Maxwells Line.
With a focus on fitness, agility, the ability to sidestep, accurate passing and throwing as well as strategy, only the three top teams could progress to the national champs held during the school holidays at Gisborne Boys’ High School.
Tournament convenor Raymond Rolfe said although there were slightly fewer teams and players than last year, the skill levels had improved.
‘‘The standard of play is getting better and better and there are more new kids playing - there’s been a 50 per cent rise in the number of new players.’’
He said it was one of the few sports where juniors and seniors could play on the same team together, while only co-ed teams could qualify for the nationals.
Taking out the trophy was a combined Palmerston North Boys’ High/girls’ High team.
‘‘It was great to see that collaboration between boys’ and girls’ high,’’ Rolfe said.
Dannevirke High School came second and Feilding High School third. The Player of the Tournament award went to Kobi Hopkinson-clayton, from Palmerston North Girls’ High.