Rugby: Chiefs gather promising young talent

Tauranga Boys' halfback Sam Takai is one of eight Bay of Plenty players at the Chiefs Under-18 camp this week. Photo / File

The Chiefs annual under-18 development camp is under way in Hamilton with players from the Chiefs provincial unions taking part in the five-day camp.

Invited players from Bay of Plenty, Counties Manukau, King Country, Taranaki, Thames and Waikato are training at St Paul's Collegiate for the regional event that covers all aspects of what is required to play rugby at the next level.

Players and their parents will hear from Chiefs coach Dave Rennie and, over the five days, the players will receive education from a variety of guest speakers and take part in activities pertaining to the six main areas that make up the framework of a rugby player's pathway.

These include technical and tactical skills, physical requirements, nutrition, mental skills and holistic leadership which covers personal development.

On Monday when the camp ends, the Chiefs under-18 players will be split into two teams who will play a game each against two Blues under-18 teams. The first match will kick off at 12.30pm and the second match will start at 2.30pm. Both matches will be held at St Paul's Collegiate.

Chiefs development manager Dave Dillon says the camp has become an important tool for the players and the Chiefs.

"It gives us an opportunity to look at some of the emerging talent in our region up close, while providing them support and valuable education about what is required to take their rugby further."

Bay of Plenty players: Will Ngatai, Sam Takai, Brad Armstrong, Paea Lavaka (Tauranga Boys'), Kaydin Budd, Te Hira Roberts (Te Wharekura o Mauao), Rewita Biddle (Opotoki College), Masiu Vainakolo (Western Heights HS)