Boxon scoop awards

The fledgling Whanganui Boxon Rugby League Club has punched well above its weight by winning awards in just its second season playing in the Manawatu competition.

The club was only formed three years ago and immediately began building a family culture that provided players, supporters and whanau an environment to flourish - and flourish they have.

At the Manawatu competition awards night late last week Boxon scooped for significant awards including being named runner-up club of the year, best under-15 back, best under-13 back and best senior back of the season.

Boxon is part of the Mid Central Rugby League Zone that incorporates Taranaki, Wanganui, Ruapehu, Hawke's Bay, Manawatu and Wellington, but opted to compete in the Manawatu competition.

Mid Central Zone chief executive Lisa Reweti, who is also associated with the Whanganui-based Boxon club, said Che Barlow was named best senior back of the Manawatu competition, Kalani Matthews the best under-15 back and Paki Ngaira best under-13 back.

"Che has just finished the tri-series for the Manawatu Mustangs and is on the short list to make the Mid Central Vipers and he has been a real inspiration to the young guys. And both boys will be playing in the Manawatu representative sides in the Mid Central Zone district tri-series tournament with Manawatu, Hawke's Bay and Taranaki starting this Sunday in Hawera," Reweti said.

"During the season the under-15 side won its competition, while the under-13s went through unbeaten until the semifinals where they finished up third. The senior team also finished third, but first in the reserve grade, so it's been a great season for Boxon.

"This was only the second season Boxon have played in the senior Manawatu competition and the club has only been up and running for three years.

"It's really come down to the culture the club has created. It's created a really good environment for players, supporters and whanau who really get behind the club. We have worked hard on improving both on and off the field behaviour and providing a wonderful environment for all to enjoy the sport," Reweti said.