An inaugural Northern Māori Rangatahi side was selected to take part in Northern District’s Youth Rangatahi Tournament held in Whangarei.
The newly created initiative from Northern Districts Cricket offered players an all-around experience, including coaching from Northern Māori Men’s player Mikaere Leef, development opportunities, and connection to Māori culture.
Kelly Grice, Diversity & Inclusion Officer at NDCA explained the importance of rangatahi recognising their culture.
“By weaving Māori culture into the culture of cricket, we believe we can harness the natural talent that our players already have,” said Grice.
The Northern Māori Rangatahi team opened the tournament with a karakia, received a taonga from Northern Districts (which all players wore with pride), and participated in cultural awareness activities led by Leef.
Northern Districts’ Pathway & Talent Manager, Brett Sorrenson, was enthusiastic about the opportunity.
“The addition of the Northern Māori Rangatahi side in the ND Rangatahi Tournament is a positive step in encouraging young Māori cricketers to embrace the game and their ability,” said Sorrenson.
“For us, it’s an addition to the current programme for the ND Māori Men and a really exciting opportunity to create a real connection for these young players around our region.
“We hope to develop this programme and continue to make positive progress for our Māori cricketers in both the male and women space.”
Northern Māori Rangatahi
- Leyton Birch
- Reagan Brookes
- Blake Farmiloe
- Oliver Farrell
- Harrison Fletcher
- Angelo Giacon
- Cooper Goodhew
- Caleb Grice
- Luca Morrison
- Riley Parkinson
- Brydon Rhodes
- Ashton Wallace
Coach: Mikaere Leef
To view scorecards from the tournament, click here. To view the ‘Northern Māori’ Facebook page, including player profiles, click here.
*ENDS*
