Locker 71

Locker 71 Content that's being displayed here for the public eye.

03/06/2026

Who helped build your rugby club into what it is today?

Mike Anderson reflects on the legacy of Dufty Bell and Trevor King.

Two men whose contributions helped shape Pakuranga United's home, facilities, culture, and future.

Today, their names still live on through club spaces, trophies, and the people who continue their work.

The best clubs never forget those who came before them.

Who is someone from your club that deserves to be remembered and celebrated?

03/06/2026

What happens when a rugby club becomes more than just a place to play?

In this episode of Club Rooms, Warren Makaua shares his journey from junior rugby through to becoming a Life Member of Mount Wellington Rugby Football Club.

We talk about the highs, the challenges, the people who built the club, and why community still matters more than ever.

For many, a rugby club is where lifelong friendships are formed, lessons are learned, and a sense of belonging is found. Warren's story is a reminder of why these places are worth protecting.

🎥 Watch the preview below.
▶️ The full episode is available now on YouTube.

If you've ever called a rugby club home, we'd love to hear your memories in the comments.

03/06/2026

What’s the one club game you still talk about today?

One game still stands out after all these years
A smaller, fast-moving side taking it to the opposition
Locked at 24-all when full-time should have ended it

The score was 24-all before extra time was played

The games you lose can leave the biggest memories

01/06/2026

Mike Anderson stopped playing and went straight into coaching.

He coached all the way from juniors through to Premiers before finding his passion with the Under 21s.

For him, it was never just about rugby.
It was about helping young men navigate life, work, relationships, and their future.

The best coaches build people, not just players.

Do young players today get enough mentors through rugby clubs?

01/06/2026

Tony says there's no point going to the grave with too much money.
That's why he sponsors the Premier team today.
A few years back, he and his son each sponsored a junior team too.

His support helped put resources back into local rugby.

Strong clubs don't happen by accident.

01/06/2026

Do talented players still need to leave home to make it?

Poutoa reflects on Eric Rush's journey from East Tamaki
To push his rugby further, he had to move to a bigger club and get noticed
After becoming an All Black and Sevens legend, he came back to coach and help develop local kids
Now his own sons have gone on to represent New Zealand in Sevens

Three generations connected to the same club

The best players don't always forget where they started

Should future stars leave their local clubs to get opportunities, or stay and help build them?

31/05/2026

Have you ever ended up exactly where you were meant to be?

Back in 1962, Francis Leilua thought he was turning up to a league club.

His mates told him he was at the wrong place.
The league club was somewhere else.

But he stayed.

More than 60 years later, East Tamaki is still part of his story.

Sometimes one small decision changes everything.

31/05/2026

Do old friendships mean more as you get older?

Ivan Tasi was reflecting on the people he met through Marist.

He spoke about great memories with Rudi Kapeli.

And one of his best mates today is still Rick Johnston, his old locking partner from years ago.

Some friendships survive decades.

Who is someone from your younger days you're still close mates with now?

28/05/2026

Do rugby clubs still give people a real sense of belonging?

Mike Anderson talks about why feeling welcomed matters so much in a club.

Not just for players.
But for families, volunteers, supporters, and people looking for connection.

He says the goal is giving forward to the community, not just giving back.

Strong clubs make people feel part of something bigger.

Have rugby clubs lost that community feeling over time?

28/05/2026

Are bigger clubs killing local rugby identity?

Poutoa says keeping local First XV talent has been a struggle
Too many boys leave ĹŚtara to chase Premier rugby elsewhere
East Tamaki has often relied on second-tier players while rebuilding its systems
He says there’s nothing wrong with that — they’re just trying to build the club back properly

East Tamaki has been part of the community since 1962

Big clubs attract players. Strong clubs develop them

Should local players stay loyal to their home clubs longer?

Address

Auckland
1061

Website

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Locker 71 posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Shortcuts

Share

Category