The Electric Eels swept the field and brought pride to the community

The Awatiu Eels made history with a remarkable achievement, sweeping the league and conference competitions in the 2024 rugby season under the leadership of coach Clive Nicholas.

This remarkable feat sets a new record, brings huge pride to the community and marks a major milestone for the Awatiu Eels Sports Club.

Nicholas’ outstanding leadership led the team to this historic victory and he continues to demonstrate his ability to achieve extraordinary things in the game of rugby.

Under his guidance, the Avatiu Eels reached new heights and demonstrated their resilience throughout the 2024 season.

Renowned for his strategic thinking and deep understanding of the game, Nicholas brings a wealth of experience and a ‘rugby, rugby’ mindset to the club, focusing on the fundamentals of 15-a-side rugby.

His efforts were rewarded in a big way, with the former national team representative claiming numerous trophies during the 2023/24 season, including a bronze medal at the Pacific Games (SPG), back-to-back domestic nines trophies, back-to-back league titles, the league season trophy, and a Town vs Country Rugby League Series title alongside Darren Pirie.

With the help of his coaching partner Oksene Moananu, he captured the Rarotonga Club 15-a-side Rugby League title last weekend, capping his record-breaking season.

For Nicholas, the win was particularly humbling.

Looking back on the journey, he said the pressure and hard work paid off, bringing the Eels an unprecedented successful season.

Just a year ago, Nicholas considered giving up sports altogether to focus on his family.

It was the encouragement and support of rugby league executives Franky Toa and Charles Carlson that reignited his passion and eventually landed him a role with the Cook Islands Rugby Union.

The decision proved transformative, not only for Nicholas, but also for the Awatiu eel colony and the wider community.

“I have no regrets staying to contribute to my home country and the village of Awatiu Nikau,” said Nicholas. His dedication and commitment have been instrumental in the team’s success and his leadership has inspired a new generation of rugby players on the island.

Nicholas is motivated by the support of his family, who have always been there for him through thick and thin. His journey with the team has also been helped by sponsors such as Rarocars, Cook Islands Steel, Onu Sportswear and Avatiu Nikao Eels Rugby Club.
The continued close collaboration of the league’s executives and the support of Awatiu MP and Deputy Prime Minister Albert Nicolas have been instrumental in the team’s success.

Clive also expressed his gratitude to the loyal supporters at home and abroad who passionately follow and support the team every week. Their collective encouragement and belief in the team has driven the team to achieve great things this season.