GREYHOUNDS AND WESTLAKE BOYS CHAMPIONSHIP TRIUMPH

The Glenfield Greyhounds are thrilled to celebrate the success of their partnership with Westlake Boys High School, who recently clinched the Senior A college finals. This collaboration has been instrumental in fostering young talent and promoting rugby league on the North Shore in Auckland.

In a recent interview, ARL caught up with three standout players from Westlake Boys High School: Noah Jensen, Kaawyn Patterson, and team captain Quinn Opuariki. These young athletes shared their journey to victory and the challenges they faced along the way.

Noah Jensen highlighted the youthful composition of their team. "We had a real young team, with a lot of the younger boys coming through wanting to give league a jam this year, it was great” he said. Kaawyn Patterson noted, "Some of the boys had never played league before. There was a lot of learning at the start of the year." Without a coach initially, the older players, including Patterson, Jensen, and Opuariki, took it upon themselves to train and guide the team. "Whaea Clare, our manager, helped get the boys together, and me, Noah, and Quinn would just take the team through trainings," Patterson added.

Quinn Opuariki reflected on the support they received from Mike, who joined as a mentor more than a coach. "Mike set up our cones and pads, gave us halftime talks, and helped with the game. But he let us lead," Opuariki explained. This mentorship was crucial in developing the team’s self-reliance and leadership skills. Michael Hartnett joined the Westlake Boys' High School rugby league program last year, thanks to his son attending the school and an opportunity that arose within the coaching staff. Despite not being a Westlake alumni himself, Hartnett saw potential and seized the chance to make a difference. "Our club chairman, Simon Watson, had built the relationship over several years. I just came on board last year when the coaching position became available," said Hartnett. The success of the Westlake rugby league team owes much to its partnership with the Greyhounds. This connection, fostered by Watson, has provided vital opportunities for the boys to play and train. 

"They’ve got a good bunch of kids here that just want to play league. The partnership has given them opportunities" Hartnett noted.

“Simon and the team at Greyhounds let us use fields, they were just good for us. They kept us boys going and we’re grateful for them," Opuariki shared. This support was pivotal, as it gave the team a place to hone their skills and develop their team. Throughout the interview, Hartnett was quick to acknowledge the support and contributions of key individuals.

"I can't speak highly enough of Simon Watson, Kaawyn Patterson, Noah Jensen, and Claire Nasey. Claire, in particular, has been amazing, providing incredible support to the team," he praised.

The championship final was a highlight for the team. "The happiest part was celebrating after the final whistle, especially after going into two extra times. We worked hard for each other," Jensen recounted. Looking ahead, Kaawyn Patterson has already secured a contract with the Bulldogs and will be heading to play SG Ball next year. Noah Jensen is playing for Pt Chev Prems and aims to crack the NRL. Opuariki plans to continue club footy in Auckland. The relationship between Westlake Boys High School and the Greyhounds sets a positive example of community support and youth development. As these young players continue their rugby league journey, their story of overcoming challenges and seizing opportunities will undoubtedly inspire others.

Viggo Rasmussen praised the partnership: "This collaboration has provided invaluable support and opportunities for the young players. The dedication shown by both the Greyhounds and Westlake Boys High School has been truly remarkable and sets a high standard for future partnerships."

BACKGROUND ON THE CHAMPIONSHIP JOURNEY

The Auckland College Rugby League finals, held at Fowld’s Park and Mt Smart Go Media Stadium, were a culmination of hard work and determination from various schools across Auckland. The U15 Boys saw St Paul’s College Blue triumph with a 20-0 victory against Manurewa High School. In the U16 Girls match, Auckland Girls Grammar School emerged as champions against St Dominic’s College after leading 28-8 at halftime.

Westlake Boys High School, however, stole the spotlight in the Boys Senior A’s match by outplaying James Cook High School with a 20-16 victory. This game was intense, showcasing the team's speed, agility, and teamwork. The final was clinched in the second half of golden point, with Kaawyn Patterson standing out as an exceptional leader throughout the season. In the Premier Girls match, Southern Cross Campus took the win from Auckland Girls Grammar School, 24-20, demonstrating their resilience by overcoming a 16-10 halftime deficit.

The Premier Boys final saw De La Salle College win 12-8 against St Paul’s College, marking their first title after three consecutive finals appearances. Congratulations to all the schools for their massive efforts in the 2024 College League season. A big thank you to Auckland Council, Hayden & Rollett, and College Sport for their support. Here’s to an even bigger and better College season in 2025!