Welcome to the 2024 Season!

J​​ames 1:12. Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.

Dear Marist Rugby Community,

No doubt 2023 was a challenging year for the club and as we head towards the beginning of the season for 2024 we are pleased with the appointment of Doug Sanft as the Director of Rugby replacing Waisake Sotutu who after 8 years of dedication and service to the club takes up a position at Howick College. 

After the resignation of Fraser Watene the Operational Director the Board is looking for support from its members until the role is filled. Luckily the club already has the support and help from Kevin Hicklin who has volunteered his time to not only organise events for fundrasing but also manage the day to day tasks and support the existing employees at the club. Des Topp who has picked up the members' contact lists and Comms and is working his way through this to contact members. Darryl Suasua is working with Kukri to ensrue the teams recieve their kit for the 2024 season and to get our on-line shop up and running for supporters gear.

The board currently requires a board secretary, an administrator of the board who ensures that the board functions efficiently and in accordance with relevant legal and other requirements. The secretary assists the chair with the organisation of papers, meetings, induction of new directors, and other duties to ensure the smooth running of a board. If you think you have the skills and ability please send an email to chair@aucklandmarist.co.nz.

We have had the resignation of two board members.  Brigitta Lotu-Iiga who was also the nominated chair proceeding the AGM in November 2023, she stepped down early February.

Steve Downie who has been on the board for the past 4 years. Thank you Steve for your support and commitment to the Marist Old Boys Rugby Club, including working with Kukri to ensure our teams  and managers are kitted out.  Not so fast, Steve will still be here just with a different hat on, helping with the Prem Development and jumping on the coaching team.

Ivan Tasi has taken 3 months leave from his duties as the president of the club and Kevin Nepia steps in.

Who is left? - not many if any 

Chair: Davida Suasua 

Rugby Committee: Eddie Kohlhase, Vanya Wolfgram

Finance:  Bryan Fox and Davida Suasua

Property: Mike Tokoma and Bryan Fox

Events: Kevin Nepia and Ivan

COD: TBC

Players Rep: (co opted position only 2024) TBC

Current Employees

Bar Manager: Martha Tane

Grounds/caretaker: Mike Hanley 

Junior Development and Community Engagement Officer: Karl Bailey

The Board is seeking to co-opt two members to the board and we have received interest from Jim Benson who has a wealth of knowledge and experience to offer including Kevin Hicklind, a Marist man who knows how to get things done. 

No doubt 2023 was a difficult year for the club and the board acknowledges  some decisions have been costly.  However, we are persevering as we are genuinely here for the betterment of the club. Yes, we want our teams to be successful and competitive and yes, we want our club to be financially stable and thriving for another 100 years. We acknowledge the past success and we also acknowledge the past mistakes, we acknowledge the world is changing and so too is the rugby space - culturally - professionally and  institutionally, but most importantly we acknowledge our catholic heritage and it is within this belief that we draw strength and wisdom to move forward and to be better than before. 

This year I am asking members to support our teams, the season hasn't started and we are already on the most hated list in Auckland club rugby, last year they felt sorry for us, this year not so much. SO dust off your 1980's Marist anorak jacket, put on your Marist beanie and scarf and support our teams. 

Stay Connected:

• Follow Us on Social Media: Stay up to date with the latest news, match updates, and behind-the-scenes content by following us on Instagram, Twitter, and Mega (@MaristRugbyClub).

• Get Involved: Whether you're a seasoned player, a proud supporter, or a community member interested in getting involved, there are plenty of opportunities to join the Marist Rugby family. Reach out to us to learn more about how you can contribute.

Here's to a successful and enjoyable season for all of our teams. Let's make 2024 a positive year to remember! 

Davida