For the rangatahi of Taranaki’s STARS Rugby League Academy, a recent hīkoi to Tāmaki Makaurau was more than just a trip – it was a transformative experience that bridged the gap between local grass-roots rugby league and the professional stage.
The academy students travelled to Tāmaki Makaurau with the primary goal of gaining exposure to the professional rugby league environment. For many, the highlight was rubbing shoulders with their sporting idols, including NRLW Warriors superstar and Taranaki local, Gayle Broughton.
For Broughton, who hails from Ngāruahine and Ngāti Ruanui, meeting the STARS students was a “full circle moment.” Having once played for the Hawera Hawks herself, she understands the journey these rangatahi are on.
“I’m proud to be from Taranaki, everywhere I go I represent the name loud and proud,” Broughton said. “It’s a special moment getting to see a lot of these young kids.”
Tane Whitehead, Kaiako Matua at STARS Academy, emphasised the power of showing these students that their origins do not dictate their trajectory. “Doesn’t matter where you come from, Gayle had to play for Hawera Hawks and stuff like that growing up and now look at her,” Whitehead said.
The experience had a profound impact on the students. For Zaire Rupapera, the chance to connect with professional players was a long-held dream. “It was wicked aye, you know ever since I was a kid I was wanting to meet all these stars,” Rupapera said. “It’s just crazy I can come out here and be blessed enough to see them all.”
Fellow student Kobe Young echoed this sentiment, noting the value of exploring new environments. “It’s been pretty good, it’s been a good experience, meeting and doing things I’ve never done before,” Young said.
Ngahina Capper, Manawhakahaere of STARS Academy, explained that the trip was carefully designed to nurture self-belief through real-world exposure. “When they get to rub shoulders with people that are doing that, or have done that, that helps them with their self belief and stuff as well,” Capper said.
Beyond the athletic development, the core mission of the academy remains grounded in the wellbeing of the students. “Plenty of smiles and happiness and laughter, that’s what it’s all about at the end of the day,” Capper said.
As the academy continues to grow, this visit to Tāmaki Makaurau stands as a testament to the power of exposure, community, and the enduring mana of Taranaki’s rangatahi league talent.