Raro 15s defending champions Panthers take on Eels today

The defending Rarotonga 15s champions Tupapa Panthers will face Awati Unikau at Tupapa Stadium today in what could be a repeat of last year’s thrilling finish when the Panthers beat the Eels.

However, Cook Island Rugby Union (CIRU) development manager Ben Koteka said the Eels were in a tough spot with a good run in the league and it would be interesting to see if they could continue in the same form.

The 2024 season kicked off yesterday with a thrilling match between Titikaweka and Arorangi.

The match set the tone for a season filled with fierce competition and intense play, with Arorangi winning the first match 42-17.

At halftime, Arorangi led the Bulldogs 21-10 at Tupapa Victoria Park.

CIRU has launched the 2024 season with a host of exciting competitions and a strong development programme to promote the sport on the islands.

Kotka shared insights into this year’s game plan, emphasizing the competitive and developmental nature of the season.

“We will continue to focus on inter-village rugby as our main competition while ensuring the strategic development of the sport,” Kotka said. This commitment to development is not only for the current season but also in the long-term preparation for major events such as the Cook Islands Games and the Oceania Rugby Championships later this year.

One of the focuses of CIRU’s development work is to build partnerships with schools on Rarotonga, Aitutaki, Atiu and Mangaia. Kotka said the hope is to expand these initiatives to the North as well.

“Our focus through these development projects is to help children and youth achieve holistic development through the Pito Enua model,” he explained.

The model emphasizes the importance of community and cultural values ​​in developing young talent.

Meanwhile, today’s competition has a special focus on the development of the young girls of the Maine Tuepolo team, which is being held at Tupapa Stadium.

Competition Schedule: Youth Development – U8/ U10/ U12 Boys and Girls – 2pm.

U16s Possibles and Likelys – 3.30pm.

Super League Men’s Tupapa Panthers vs. Avatiu Eels – 4 p.m.