Waikato’s squad may struggle this year but watch out for them in 2015.
Waikato have a young, inexperienced squad that NIGEL YALDEN says will come good – just maybe not in 2014.
Vision Statement We want to be the team that’s really hard to beat. We are realistic about where we are. We are a new group; a young group, but we want to make sure that we put good performance on the park. We want to play attractive, consistent rugby so that teams are going to have to work really hard in order to better us. Waikato coach Johnny Walters
The Big Picture
“Any change, even a change for the better, is always accompanied by drawbacks and discomforts” Enoch Arnold Bennett.
Waikato coach Johnny Walters understands that quote entirely. For a wide range of reasons 22 players from last year’s squad will not be seen in red, yellow and black this season.
Despite losing the Ranfurly Shield in just their second defence last year, Waikato battled bravely throughout the Premiership season, finishing fifth, though well out of semifinal contention.
They showed glimpses of what they had to offer; the first half against Auckland was outlandishly encouraging.
But even though a reasonable foundation had been set on which to push forward, Waikato have chosen to revamp starting with a new recruitment policy aimed at bringing people who are ‘ absolute top class’ to the union. And it’s reflected in the squad assembled. With hookers Brayden Mitchell and Hame Faiva, props Ben Tameifuna, Josh Hohneck and James McGougan and locks Luke Katene, David Morgan, Nick Ross and James Tucker on the books, Waikato should present a hard working, combative tight five for their industrious loose forwards to work off.
The backline, whilst desperately short on experience, is stacked with raw ability with captain Brad Weber, New Zealand Under 20 members Damian McKenzie and Anton Leinert- Brown alongside the likes of Albert Nikoro, Joe Webber and Semisi Masirewa. Make no mistake; this season will be a battle for Waikato. However you suspect one step back this year will be followed by big strides forward in seasons to follow.
Rising Star
Damian McKenzie has been a dominant force for University in Waikato club rugby either side of impressing for the New Zealand Under 20s at the IRB Junior World Championship. The former Christ College standout is the complete package; great foot work, exceptional handling skills, solid tactical kicking game and a courageous defender. However, it’s his vision and how he reacts to what he’s seeing on the field that makes him one of the most exciting young talents in New Zealand rugby.
Old Dog
When you are rebuilding a team you need a veteran that young players can look up to but also relate to.
As such, the presence of 37 year’s young Marty Holah in the Mooloo camp goes beyond invaluable for coach Walters
A pro’s pro, the career of All Black number 999 is a glowing testament to his phenomenal work ethic and commitment to everything he does, be it in the gym, with fans and sponsors, on the training field or for 80 minutes game day.
New Arrivals
Current Chief Josh Hohneck and 2009- 2010 Chief James McGougan help replenish the front row stock, while the return of Luke Katene and David Morgan from Canterbury and Northland respectively will bolster the second row ranks.
Outside backs Albert Nikoro and Jordan Payne have moved down from Auckland while New Zealand Under 20 players Anton Leinert- Brown, James Tucker, and McKenzie can make an instant impact at this level.
Waikato have lost significant experience though with Toby Smith ( Melbourne Rebels), Jack Lam ( Bristol), Trent Renata ( Otago) Save Tokula, Tim Mikkelson ( NZ Sevens) Rory Grice and Jackson Willison ( both Grenoble) having all departed.