Whakatāne Marist Rugby and Sports Club will be able to tackle the season in style thanks to a grant of $10,702 from New Zealand Community Trust (NZCT).

The grant will pay for new training and playing equipment for their 2025 season, ensuring players from juniors to seniors can hit the field well-equipped and ready to compete.

Club president Matt Te Pou said the grant was a big win for the club and wider community.

“This generous support from NZCT means we can provide gear for our tamariki and senior players, helping them turn up to training and game day prepared with both their kit and a positive mindset.”

The new equipment would help build good habits among young players, support progression through the club’s age grades, and give the community a strong and inclusive sporting outlet.

Whakatāne Marist has been a cornerstone of the local sporting scene since its formation in 1956 as St Joseph’s Rugby Football Club.

The current clubrooms, built through voluntary labour, opened in 1978.

Today, the club fields teams from Under 5s through to seniors and continues to play a vital role in the Whakatāne community.

Players and whānau know the value of quality gear, Leva Sili, father of JAB Player and senior rugby team member said.

“Without rugby balls and gear there is no game.”

Sione Pulu, senior rugby team member added; “With our gear we are one of the best dressed teams in our competition”.

NZCT’s grants, marketing and communications general manager Ben Hodges said it’s fantastic to support grassroots clubs, where sport brings communities together, builds resilience, and gives young people a positive place to be.

“Grants like this wouldn’t be possible without the responsible gaming partnership we share with Cobb & Co. Whakatane.”