Players reach 50 games for the 1st XV
Four seasons ago both Aaron Herbert and Chris Stuart got starting positions in the annual All Black Captain’s Quadrangular Tournament traditionally played between Horowhenua College, Wairarapa College Dannevirke High School and Hutt Valley High School.
Last week they played the same tournament as a culmination of their 1st XV careers.
Recently they played their 50th games as starting players against Palmerston North Boys High Thirds.
It would have been nice to record a win in the final Manawatu¯ Secondary School’s competition game but as with a number of games in recent weeks in the second division Dannevirke fell agonisingly close, 22-18.
Both Aaron and Chris have thoroughly enjoyed their 1st XV Rugby, with last season being one of their best. They admit playing in the Premiere Grade against Manawatu¯ ’s top schools was really tough this year and they found the games after dropping to the second division much more satisfying.
They were satisfied drawing their game against Central Hawkes Bay College during the recent inter-school fixture, having lost to them pre-season on College Day at Napier.
Highlight for both has been the trips away to play quadrangular tournament rugby.
Both boys are staying in Dannevirke next year, hoping to play for the Dannevirke Sports Club Colts but before that they have the challenge of taking on top sides in Wairarapa College or Hutt Valley High in the quadrangular tournament.
Chris has been Captain of the 1st XV for two years and is House Captain of Macdonald this year.
Aaron also has caps representing 50 games for the 1st XI Cricket and Danes Basketball teams.
This year he has also fitted in Head Boy of his school.