The Tongatapu National Rugby XVs Championship starts this weekend.
“It is Rugby World Cup Year and this rugby championship will kick off on 1 April 2023 and will run for 12 weeks,” said the Tongatapu Rugby Secretary, Siaosi Lepuha Faka'osi.
“The competition aims to develop our local talent and provide an opportunity to allow coaches to scope players for international selection which is our duty.
“Last year’s champions Nukunuku will be defending their title in an 18 team championship.”
He said it was important for the National Rugby Federation Tonga Rugby Union budget to reflect the needs of local community grassroots rugby. These include competitions and developing community capacity in clubs such as the Kolomotu'a Rugby Club, which now has a gym facility.
Tongatapu National Rugby XVs Championship
Round One, Saturday 1 April 2023. Draw:
| VENUE: TONGA COLLEGE 'ATELE | ||
| TIME | FIELD 1 GRANDSTAND | FIELD 2 PULUKAMU |
| 10:00 am | Vaini vs Ha'asini | Fasi Ma'ufanga vs Houmakelikao |
| 11:40 am | Havelu vs Lavengamalie | Ha'ateiho vs Toa ko Ma'afu |
| 1:10 pm | OPENING | - |
| 1:40 pm | Toloa vs Marist | Liahona vs Sotia |
| 3:10 pm | Nukunuku vs Kolomotu'a | Ngele'ia vs Kau Sela |
| Bye Hihifo | Bye Kolofo'ou |
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