LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
The Warriors' influence was undeniable as players from the victorious St Thomas of Canterbury College team showcased their talents in the national under-16 and under-18 squads following the New Zealand Rugby League's National Secondary Schools tournament held in Papakura.
Standing out among the crowd was second rower Bishop "Immanuel" Neal, who was crowned the premiership tournament MVP after St Thomas of Canterbury clinched their second consecutive title by defeating De La Salle College 24-18 in the thrilling grand final.
Teammate and fullback Meihana Pauling, who also represented the Warriors' SG Ball Cup (under-19) side, claimed the MVP award for his stellar performance in the final showdown.
Unfortunately, Neal, a mere 15-year-old at the time, missed out on the Warriors' successful Harold Matthews Cup (under-17) campaign earlier in the year due to injury.
However, his exceptional display throughout the tournament week earned him a spot in the New Zealand Secondary Schools 16s side, while Pauling, aged 18, secured a place in the 18s squad.
Joining them in the 18s squad from St Thomas were the likes of loose forward Lennox Tuiloma and hooker Isaiah Savea, both integral members of the Warriors' triumphant Harold Matthews Cup team, along with centre Jackson Stewart and front rower Zeke Faga-Leti.
Additionally, St Thomas' halfback Christiano Elia was chosen for the 16s side.
The undeniable talent and tenacity displayed by these young athletes only serve to further strengthen the close bond between the Warriors and their feeder teams, ushering in a new era of success for New Zealand Rugby League.