ANNUAL REPORT AND STATEMENT OF ACCOUNTS 2020 A YEAR 17,500 35,675 2020IN NUMBERS 395,000 TEAMS 111 20 AFFILIATED 2 9,249 REFEREES REPRESENTATIVE TEAMS REGISTERED PLAYERS 1 NATIONAL SQUAD REFEREES 477 BODIES 8,031 MALE, 1,218 FEMALE
1 BLACK FERNS DEVELOPMENT 1 BLACK FERNS SEVENS 19 7 Manusina Samoa XV 5 5 2 Tonga XV 527,800 1 NZ Maori STAFF ALL BLACKS BLACK FERNS 2 Moana Pasifika WELLINGTON POPULATION 3 NZ Secondary Schools SUPER RUGBY COACHES 4 NZ Schools Barbarians 20 PLAYERS 785 Contents
List of Officers 2
Honours and Awards 3
Chairperson’s Report 5
Rugby Board Chairperson’s Report 7
Team Reports: Wellington Lions 10
Wellington Pride 14
Wellington Secondary Schools Rugby 17
Junior Rugby Advisory Board 19
Wellington Rugby Referees’ Association 20
2020 Club Grade Winners 21
Post Season Club Competitions 22
Men’s Club Champions 23
Women’s Club Champions 24
Obituaries 25
Financial Reports 26
Wellington Rugby Football Union (Incorporated) Annual Report 2020 1 Wellington Rugby Football Union (Inc.)
President Vice Presidents: I. Dallas Murray Blandford A. Davidson Ms. I. Hansen M. Isberg K. Walsh
Board of Directors Staff as at 31 December 2020 Rugby Board R. Poole M. Evans S. Surujpal (Chairperson) (Chief Executive Officer) (Chairperson)
R. Jamieson (Deputy Chairperson) L. Crowley (Lions Head Coach & Director of Rugby) S. Fuller (Deputy Chairperson, Wellington) D. Banks D. Birnie (Commercial Manager) T. O’Kane (Avalon) S. Fuller T. Blake (Commercial Executive) D. Latham (Centurions) M. Hartley J. Dickie (Lions Head Strength & Conditioning Coach) M. Sliper (Eastbourne) P. Hendry T. Ellison (Lions Assistant Coach & Community D. Rose (Hutt Old Boys Marist) Ms. C. Rossiter-Stead Resources) B. Hannah (Johnsonville) S. Surujpal G. Heikell (Community Rugby Liaison Officer M. Tocker (Marist St. Pats) – Development) J. Callahan (Northern United) B. McLachlan (Finance Manager) R. Gordon (Old Boys University) M. Langley (Community Rugby Liaison Officer J. Willis (Oriental Rongotai) Life Members – Capability) J. Gray (Paremata-Plimmerton) J. Marshall (Lions Strength & Conditioning Coach) W. Smith (Petone) B.T. Frederikson (2005) J. McKee (Office Manager) M.Warrington (Poneke) A.R. Leslie (2008) E. Paisley (Community Rugby Operations Officer) G. Hardie (Stokes Valley) J. Oldershaw (1993) M. Poutoa (Lions Team Manager and Women’s High K. Pulley (Tawa) E.J. Tonks (1991) Performance Manager) D. Ritchie (Upper Hutt Rams) M.J. Usmar (2012) J. Schmitt (Events & Match Manager) C. Wright (Wainuiomata) N. W. Hughes (2012) V. Serengali (Video Analyst) T. Walsh (Western Suburbs) P.B. Quinn (2012) B. Sigmund (Professional Development Manager) M. Fairmaid (WRRA) R.M. Barlow (2014) D. Waller (Lions Assistant Coach & Community M. Isberg (WSSRU) D. Evans (2015) Resources) L. Barry (JRAB) W. Guppy (2018) D. Walsh (Community Rugby & Referee Support Officer) R. Whatarau (High Performance Unit Manager)
Wellington Rugby Football Union (Incorporated) Annual Report 2020 2 Honours and Awards
Representative Team Coaches Honours MOANA PASIFIKA: Naitoa Ah Kuoi, Vince Aso WELLINGTON LIONS: ALL BLACKS: Leo Crowley, Tamati Ellison, Greg Halford Asafo Aumua, Dane Coles, TJ Perenara, MANUSINA SAMOA XV: & Dion Waller Ardie Savea, Peter Umaga-Jensen Ana-Maria Afuie, Beryl Ena, Josephine Falesita, Nina Foaese, Gene Solia-Gibb, Janet Taumoli, WELLINGTON PRIDE: BLACK FERNS: Xavier Tusa Ross Bond, Aaron Jones & Brendan Reidy Ayesha Leti-I’iga, Joanah Ngan-Woo, Marcelle Parkes, Jackie Patea-Fereti, Monica Tagoai TONGA XV: Emma Hopoi, Amania Mafi Auditors BLACK FERNS SEVENS: Dhys Faleafaga NEW ZEALAND SECONDARY SCHOOLS: Ernst & Young Hanz Leota, Riley Higgins, Siale Lauaki BLACK FERNS DEVELOPMENT: Amanda Rasch NEW ZEALAND SCHOOLS BARBARIANS: Bradley Crichton, Christian Stenhouse, Solicitors MAORI ALL BLACKS: Dominic Ropeti, Owen Wright Gibson Sheat Billy Proctor
Wellington Rugby Football Union (Incorporated) Annual Report 2020 3 Honours and Awards
2020 Wellington Rugby Award Winners
Women’s Sevens Player of the Year Sir William Perry Memorial Trophy Men’s Club Rookie of the Year Grace Steinmetz (Northern United) Oriental Rongotai Aidan Morgan (Marist St Pats) Men’s Sevens Player of the Year Junior Rugby Volunteer of the Year Women’s Best & Fairest Player Award Esi Komaisavai (Northern United) Craig Le Quesne (Western Suburbs) Montana Heslop (Old Boys University) & Ayesha Leti-I’iga (Oriental Rongotai) Women’s HPU Best Performer Senior Rugby Volunteer of the Year Fa’asua Makisi (Oriental Rongotai) Wayne Smith (Petone) & Graeme Hardie (Stokes Valley) Billy Wallace Memorial Trophy (Men’s Best & Fairest Player Award) Women’s HPU Best Philosophy Referee of the Year Bruce Kauika-Petersen (Northern United) Jackie Patea-Fereti (Petone) Richard Gordon & Sam Reid (Old Boys University) Al Keown Award Club Coach of the Year WRFU Lifetime Contribution Salver Caleb Delany (Old Boys University) Barry Luke (Eastbourne U85kg Restricted) Peter Scott Ken Comber Memorial Cup Club Team of the Year Hugo Plummer (Tawa) Oriental Rongotai Women Dewar Shield Women’s Club Rookie of the Year Old Boys University Josephine Falesita (Oriental Rongotai)
Wellington Rugby Football Union (Incorporated) Annual Report 2020 4 Chairperson’s Report
2020 was a year like no other for rugby, and life, in flexibility, inventiveness and passion for our game and Mareena Conley and team support staff for the hours of New Zealand. our communities. These people along with our hard- volunteer time that you all put into the 2020 season. working volunteers ensured Wellington Rugby enjoyed Rugby is known as a game of two halves, one of which Thanks also to our employed High-Performance staff, a very good club season again, culminating in what has is often battling into a strong Wellington southerly. In along with their many volunteer helpers for their passion become a not to be missed finals day. 2020 somebody forgot to tell the referee to blow for for our game that sees them contribute far beyond what half time and give us a spell with the wind behind our In the High-Performance space our Wellington Lions their contracts require. backs, and I want to thank the staff and volunteers for just got pipped with results of other matches not falling In the club space, two of our Under 85kg teams; Avalon their collective unwavering determination to not let the their way and allowing them a semi-final. What a last & Eastbourne, made it to the NZR U85kg National “elements” overcome us. Your efforts were of All Blacks round of matches it was, that had us all sitting in front of Club Cup semi-finals. I encourage all in our rugby proportion! the TV working through the permutations. environment to get behind this grade and think of it as I also want to acknowledge and thank the staff that we Our only other representative team; the Wellington Pride a future Premier weight restricted grade, as I believe it’s lost last year as a consequence of our need to resize finished third in their pool having lost two round robin critical in growing our participation rates. our operation as we worked our way through a myriad games. Due to the North/South competition format As far as our 18 clubs fare, grassroots rugby continues of headwinds and a constantly evolving future. We lost played this meant they missed out on a semi-final spot as a staple in our communities across the region, albeit some amazingly passionate staff and among these was as only the top two progressed from each conference. experiencing significant one-off challenges associated a man who gave his all for WRFU over 15 odd years – Sadly, due to COVID-19 none of our other HP teams with COVID-19. I want to acknowledge the work done Will Caccia-Birch. Thank you all for your service. got to play. I want to thank Ross Bond, his Assistants by the army of club volunteers and referees who To the staff remaining I congratulate you on your Brendon Reidy and Aaron Jones, and Manager without your contribution we would not be able to play our game. I have personally gained the majority of my lifelong friendships through my association with rugby and I will work unwaveringly to make volunteering in rugby a passion and fun filled experience for all those involved.
Imagine this headline… “Wellington struggles to provide enough games each week for referees as referee numbers soar in Wellington Community Rugby”
A special mention to the volunteers that continue to put their hand up to administer our club finals day alongside Management. Well done and thank you to all involved.
In terms of participation, it is not sensible to take 2020 as a normal year due to the changed club season impacting on players ability and/or desire to participate. One thing is certain, we will need to better understand how the current, and future, generations want to engage with the game of rugby and ensure we have options available that meet these needs.
Wellington Rugby Football Union (Incorporated) Annual Report 2020 5 Chairperson’s Report
If we were to take the analogy of a music store, no shop meaning no crowd, and then in October against also 2021. For this reason, a breakeven budget for 2021 selling just music on cassette players or 45”s would Australia with a near sell-out crowd. Thank you to all has been approved by the BOD which will require some survive today, but that is not to say a shop selling these staff for yet again putting on a great event, and we look careful management. products but also offering the latest ways to consume forward to hosting a test again in 2021. I also thank the staff for the salary sacrifices they took music would not thrive in 2021 and beyond. The same Financially, for the year ending 31 December 2020 throughout 2020, and the Mayors of Upper Hutt City, applies to rugby. We will always have our open weight WRFU have posted a profit of $456k. Whilst on the Hutt City, Porirua City, and Wellington City Councils who high performance club grades, but we also need to surface this appears a healthy result in an uncertain provided financial relief on the use of council grounds. be open to further age and weight restricted options, year, it is underpinned by a substantial Government These reductions allowed us to waive affiliation fees to different variations of time and rules, and different ways Wage Subsidy and contribution from the Hurricanes. Clubs, a decision which was well received. of preparing to provide for those who don’t wish to Without these the board and management would have participate in the traditional game, or go to two trainings I want to acknowledge the efforts of the Board of been forced to contemplate even bigger changes than a week, but still want to pick up a ball and play a game of Directors on behalf of the union. I am very fortunate to those eventually made. rugby with their mates. be surrounded by intelligent, hardworking people who I suggest the impacts of COVID-19 will linger for a give freely of their time. In a change from tradition some WRFU also hosted two very successful All Blacks second season and as such it’s important not to Directors have provided content of their projects in games at short notice. The first being the North/South measure the financial performance on just 2020, but 2020 and will speak briefly to these at the AGM and take match played under COVID Level Two restrictions some questions from the floor. I hope you find this new part of the AGM more informative and interactive.
I also want to acknowledge the service provided over the last 6 years by retiring Board member Dave Banks. Dave brought a passion for club rugby, a sound business nous, and the courage to speak up and stand up for what he believed was in Wellington Rugby’s best interest at the Board table. On behalf of all of Wellington Rugby I sincerely thank you Dave.
In closing I say to you - make no mistake 2021 will continue to provide many headwinds for the WRFU as we turn the tide on falling participation, await the outcome of what the NPC will look like, and make a decision around our involvement in Super Rugby.
Yours in Rugby
Russell Poole Chairperson Wellington Rugby Football Union
Wellington Rugby Football Union (Incorporated) Annual Report 2020 6 Rugby Board Chairperson’s Report
It goes without saying that 2020 challenged our Community game in ways never imagined. However, the resilience and drive shown by clubs, participants, and the Union to play any form of a season was truly inspiring, even with multiple Alert Level changes and the requirements at each of these levels.
Having been elected to this role in March via an electronic vote in lieu of an AGM it’s fair to say the induction was anything but normal! My thanks must go to Pete Scott who dutifully fulfilled the role the past ten years and for laying a solid platform for any successor.
I would like to start this report by thanking everyone who played their part in allowing this season to go ahead. To the Councils who accommodated a later finish, the summer codes who began their seasons later; the Clubs who sat through multiple Zoom calls and presentations on what competitions could look like; the Wellington Rugby Referees Association for their support; and to WRFU staff, in particular Michael Langley and Emma Paisley who went over and above to ensure a smooth season, I thank you all. Thank you to all of you for the time and energy you put illustrating a another wonderfully competitive college Overall, we had 9,249 players in 2020. This is down by into junior rugby. rugby programme. about 14% on 2019 numbers, but when compared to As part of their annual reporting College Sport Fortunately, one Rip Rugby tournament was able to be the national average of an 18% decrease, we have done Wellington publish participation numbers across held in November. 23 teams took part with six winners well. Coach and referee numbers are also down but all sports. It’s pleasing to report participation rates being found across Junior and Senior Boys, Girls and again the decrease was better than the national average increased in 2020 for the first time in two years. Mixed team offerings. Rip Rugby continues to be one of decrease. Whilst these numbers give an indication of Furthermore, Rugby again became the number one WRFU’s main participation strategies and I am hopeful overall participation, they shouldn’t be dwelled on too male participant sport, and the tenth highest female more events will be able to run in 2021. much given all the complications COVID presented. participant sport. In partnership with Sport Wellington and the Kiwi Again, our junior game led the way with strong Congratulations to St Mary’s College and St Patrick’s Sport fund, Management was able to run a nine-week participation across our clubs, and wonderfully College Silverstream on their regional success in Rip-Rugby pilot programme at Sacred Heart College supported by the junior convenors under the guidance winning their respective girls’ and boys’ premier in Lower Hutt. All year nine and ten students took of the Junior Rugby Advisory Board. Our junior competitions. part in this programme where they learnt ball skills, coaches and parents should also be commended how to coach one another, referee matches and for their support in managing bubbles by respecting Another COVID casualty was the annual College how to administer tournaments. This culminated in a no-spectator sideline requests and a drop-off/pick-up Finals Day at Silverstream. Although this was not able one-off tournament in term four where 300 students model at club trainings under Alert Level Two. to be held, 14 grade titles were still decided during participated in Rip Rugby grades. A big thank you must the season. There were nine different school winners
Wellington Rugby Football Union (Incorporated) Annual Report 2020 7 Rugby Board Chairperson’s Report
other grade winners in 2020. This event continues to showcase what is great about our community game.
One new and exciting initiative NZR implemented in 2020 was an 85kg National Club Cup. Post-COVID a smaller than planned competition was run and WRFU had four teams enter; Avalon, Eastbourne, Poneke, and Wellington. With the support of Management, the qualifying match between Eastbourne and Wellington was played at Sky Stadium and televised on Sky Sport in what was a first for the grade. Eastbourne came out winners in this closely fought match and progressed to the semi-finals, as did Avalon on the other side of the draw. Unfortunately, both Avalon and Eastbourne dipped out in the semi’s but were fantastic role models for all of Wellington in this competition. I look forward to seeing the next instalment of this in 2021.
The Ambassador Sevens Series followed later in the year where Oriental Rongotai Women’s and Northern United Men’s took top honours. After hosting the National Club Sevens at the start of the year, Northern United qualified as WRFU’s rep for the 2021 go to Fuamai Moeka’a who lead the programme and to Reserve Men’s Rugby. All other senior male grades were tournament. Sacred Heart College for their support. scheduled to provide as much rugby as possible. I extend many congratulations to all clubs for their My sincere thanks to Martin Isberg and the Wellington The Women’s Premier competition took place in a nine- participation across all grades of rugby throughout Secondary Schools Rugby Executive who continue week round robin format. This shorter was necessitated the 2020 season. However, none of this rugby in our to work for the betterment of schools’ rugby. To Bryan to accommodate a Farah Palmer Cup competition to be community is possible without the time, energy, and Dickinson and the College Sport Wellington (CSW) played. Congratulations must go to Oriental-Rongotai capability of our tireless volunteers. On behalf of the team, a big thanks also for their ongoing support who completed a perfect season winning all nine game thousands of players taking the field every Saturday of college rugby. The relationship between CSW, with bonus points and only conceding 12 points (in during the season, I thank you all for your commitment Wellington Secondary Schools and Wellington Rugby the final game of the season). This record saw them to this game – you are truly change makers making the could not be stronger, and this is in large part to the deservedly awarded the WRFU Club Team of the Year game possible and enjoyable for all. commitment and understanding of all parties around award at the Community Rugby Awards. Our referees continued to perform a wonderful job teenage rugby. With Wellington moving to Alert Level One on the throughout 2020 and whilst recruitment is a constant The disruption caused by COVID meant that we were Wednesday prior, Club finals rugby returned to the focus, the reality is that more refs are needed to enable not able to run our planned men’s competitions. Petone Recreation Ground. Roughly 6000 supporters rugby matches on a weekly basis. Instead, clubs agreed to a 15-week season comprising attended and witnessed some fabulous rugby across The retention and recruitment of referees does however of a full Swindale Shield round followed by two weeks eight finals on the day. Congratulations to Old Boys continue to be a massive challenge. WRFU finished of finals across four divisions of Premier and Premier University for winning the Jubilee Cup, and to all
Wellington Rugby Football Union (Incorporated) Annual Report 2020 8 Rugby Board Chairperson’s Report
with 106 referees in 2020, about 40 short of an ideal support in 2021. To the departing Ina Hansen, we your services to WRFU and wish you all the best in your number. The top end calibre will also be tested in 2021 thank you for your absolute commitment to the Vice future endeavours. with the departure of both Nick Hogan and Richard President’s role over the last few seasons. All the very Thanks also to the WRFU management, to CEO Matt Gordon and their combined 200 premier matches of best and we look forward to seeing you around the Evans, Michael Langley, Emma Paisley, David Walsh, and experience. rugby fields. Grainger Heikell for the tremendous support provided My plea to clubs: this is your game and refs are an I would like to thank Rugby Board delegates for your to delivering rugby in Wellington during 2020. We look essential part in delivering it. If you are finishing, you’re support. We are operating in changing times, so it is forward to more innovative strategies that capture the playing career or have been halted by injury, why not important we address the key issues with rigour to imagination of our communities in 2021. give refereeing a go? enable our game to progress positively. I look forward to seeing you all again in 2021. Congratulations must go to Mike Fraser, our sole high 2020 sadly saw the departure of several Community Yours in Rugby performing referee. Mike continues to do the region Rugby team members. Firstly, to Will Caccia-Birch I proud refereeing at a national level with distinction. thank you for your significant service over a period of Sunil Surujpal And once again, a massive thanks to Ian Dallas and his 15 years. Your administration of the Community game, Chair leadership of our referee membership throughout 2020. particularly in recent years with a rapidly changing WRFU Rugby Board sporting landscape has been truly appreciated. You In terms of game development, significant progress leave behind legacies which will see rugby benefit – was made over the first six months of the new cycle thank you once again. (October 2019 – March 2020). The introduction of initiatives such as the Game Development manual To Tammy Ferreira, Mason Malagamaali’i, Fuamai crystalised the engagement requirements across all Moeka’a, and Cameron Prestidge I thank you for all areas of Rugby by our Club Game Development Officer workforce. Sadly, this programme had to be terminated at the end of March with funding being withdrawn by trust funding partners.
However, Management was able to get this programme back up and running for the final four months of 2020 with a commitment of funding for the first nine months in 2021. We are grateful for the support of New Zealand Community Trust and Four Winds who continue to provide significant funding for this regional programme.
Many thanks also to our Presidential Suite. To Murray Blandford, who in his second and final year as President, has been a superb ambassador for our Union. We thank you for the energy and passion you have brought to the role and wish you all the best for your ‘retirement’. Thank you also to our Vice Presidents Ina Hansen, Martin Isberg, Ian Dallas, Kerry Walsh, and Allan Davidson for their contribution. We look forward to your continued
Wellington Rugby Football Union (Incorporated) Annual Report 2020 9 Wellington Lions
Played: Won: Lost: Points For: Points Against:
Management Team Head Coach: 10 5 5 289 248 Leo Crowley Assistant Coach: Dion Waller Assistant Coach: Tamati Ellison Scrum Coaches: Greg Halford Team Manager: Mila Poutoa Strength & Conditioning Coach: James Dickie Doctor: Dr Andrew Narayan Physio: Brogan Treanor Assistant Physio: Emma Clabburn Technical Analyst: Victor Serangeli Assistant Analyst: Matt Healey Assistant Analyst Intern: Lathim Greig Assistant Strength & Conditioning: Joel Marshall Assistant Strength & Conditioning and Nutrition: Back Row: Aidan Morgan, Xavier Numia, Vince Aso, Connor Collins Matt Higgins 3rd Row: Ruben Love, Sam Smith, Connor Garden-Bachop, Ben Aumua-Peseta, Fraser Armstrong, Tyrone Thompson, Morgan Poi, Kaliopasi Uluilakepa, Assistant Strength & Conditioning Caleb Delany, Callum Harkin, Pepesana Patafilo. Intern: 2nd Row: Anton Jacques (S&C Intern), Andrew Narayan (Doctor), James Dickie (Head S&C), Joel Marshall (S&C), Greg Halford (Scrum Coach), Anton Jacques Taine Plumtree, Teariki Ben-Nicholas, James Poloniati, Naitoa Ah Kuoi, Dion Waller (Asst Coach), Victor Serangeli (Head Analyst), Kit Manager: Matt Healy (Analyst), Lathim Greig (Analyst), Brogan Treanor (Head Physio). Greg Stanbridge 1st Row: Kemara Hauiti-Parapara, Vaea Fifita, Billy Proctor, James O’Reilly, Mila Poutoa (Manager), Tamati Ellison (Asst Coach), Jackson Garden-Bachop, Mental Skills: Murray Blandford (President), James Blackwell (Captain), Leo Crowley (Head Coach), Matt Evans (CEO), Mateaki Kafatolu, Trent Renata, Luke Rowe Alex Fidow, Wes Goosen, Julian Savea. Media Manager: Sam Farrell Absent: Asafo Aumua, Dane Coles, Bruce Kauika-Petersen, Du’Plessis Kirifi, TJ Perenara, Ardie Savea, Josiah Tavita-Metcalfe, Peter Umaga-Jensen, Professional Development Manager: Emma Clabburn (Physio), Matt Higgins (S&C), Ben Sigmund (PDM), Luke Rowe (Mental Skills) and Greg Stanbridge (Kit Manager). Ben Sigmund
Wellington Rugby Football Union (Incorporated) Annual Report 2020 10 Wellington Lions Wellington Caps 2020 CAREER Trent Renata 7 33 Team Record Ruben Love 5 5 12 September v Waikato in Hamilton 25 October v Counties Manukau in Pukekohe Connor Garden-Bachop 2 6 Lost 28-53 Won 53-20 Wes Goosen 9 58 Tries: SJ Savea, VTL Fifita, AS Savea, Tries: JP O’Reilly (2), VTL Fifita (2), XS Numia, Julian Savea 8 40 CC Garden-Bachop WT Goosen, TG Ben-Nicholas Pepesana Patafilo 9 19 Con: JK Garden-Bachop (4) Con: JK Garden-Bachop (4), A Morgan (2) Pen: JK Garden-Bachop (2) Aidan Morgan 4 4 20 September v Auckland in Auckland Peter Umaga-Jensen 5 27 Won 39-21 31 October v Tasman in Porirua Tries: VT Aso (2), WT Goosen, BD Proctor, Lost 3-19 Billy Proctor 10 35 PIJ Umaga-Jensen, P Patafilo Pen: JK Garden-Bachop Vince Aso 9 20 Con: JK Garden-Bachop (3) Jackson Garden-Bachop 10 74 8 November v Hawke’s Bay (RS) in Napier Pen: JK Garden-Bachop Lost 18-34 TJ Perenara 2 19 25 September v Bay of Plenty in Wellington Tries: NS Ah Kuoi, K Uluilakepa Kemara Hauiti-Parapara 9 43 Won 32-10 Con: JK Garden-Bachop Connor Collins 9 18 Tries: TG Ben-Nicholas (2), WT Goosen, T Thompson, Pen: JK Garden-Bachop (2) Ardie Savea 2 36 R Love 8 November v Manawatu in Wellington Teariki Ben-Nicholas 10 38 Con: JK Garden-Bachop (2) Won 31-5 Pen: JK Garden-Bachop Du’Plessis Kirifi 6 33 Tries: XS Numia, P Patafilo, TG Ben-Nicholas, Mateaki Kafatolu 8 36 3 October v Canterbury in Christchurch VT Aso, S Smith Sam Smith 4 4 Lost 26-31 Con: JK Garden-Bachop (2), BD Proctor Tries: VT Aso, NS Ah Kuoi, T Thompson, Vaea Fifita 10 52 PIJ Umaga-Jensen Caleb Delany 6 6 Con: JK Garden-Bachop (3) Naitoa Ah Kuoi 9 20 10 October v Otago in Wellington Taine Plumtree 5 5 Lost 34-35 James Blackwell 10 52 Tries: TWK Renata, JP O’Reilly, AF Fidow, Alex Fidow 9 39 KH Hauiti-Parapara Josiah Tavita-Metcalfe 3 3 Con: JK Garden-Bachop (4) Ben Aumua-Peseta 6 6 Pen: JK Garden-Bachop (2) Kaliopasi Uluilakepa 7 17 17 October v North Harbour in Wellington Morgan Poi 6 10 W 25-20 Xavier Numia 8 27 Tries: BD Proctor, JK Garden-Bachop, SJ Savea Con: JK Garden-Bachop (2) Asafo Aumua 2 44 Pen: JK Garden-Bachop (2) Tyrone Thompson 10 10 Bruce Kauika-Petersen 1 1 James O’Reilly 7 45
Wellington Rugby Football Union (Incorporated) Annual Report 2020 11 Wellington Lions Team Manager’s Report
1. Management Team of this game in Levin. Your work and help with this are greatly appreciated. The 2020 Stonewood Homes Wellington Lions Management list is on page 10 of The Wellington Lions squad was officially this report. named on Friday, August 28th through a media launch. The 2020 management team had some changes, with Leo Crowley promoted 4. In season to Head Coach and new assistant coaches appointed in Dion Waller and The season began with an away loss to Tamati Ellison. Also, the inclusion of a Waikato, the result showed to us all the new co-physio Emma Clabburn, mental challenges ahead. skills Luke Crawford, S&C intern Anton This was following a series of games Jacques and analyst intern Lathim Greig. home and away; 2. Planning and Preparation V Auckland (win, away). Planning, logistical and competition V Bay of Plenty (win, home). requirements were affected due V Canterbury (loss, away). to COVID and presented a lot of V Otago (loss, home) challenges, but we were able to organise V North Harbour (win, home). ourselves in time for the season. V Counties Manukau (win, away) From there, communication and V Tasman (loss, home). interaction with all our suppliers was positive. Our thanks are extended to all V Hawkes Bay (loss, away). the many organisations that assisted us Our final round robin game was home throughout the season. to Manawatu. A key game where we Thanks also to NZ Rugby and particularly needed to secure a win to remain in the Frances Duffin and team, for all their Premiership. This was played in great assistance pre-season, during the weather conditions and we were able season, and in the off-season. to put together a positive performance gaining the required result.
3. Pre-Season We had to wait for the other weekend We were restricted in playing one pre- games to see if we made the semis. season game vs. Manawatu. Thanks Permutations gave us a chance, but we to Duncan and the team for this vital were unable to make the playoffs. preparation game. Over the year we played 10 games, won Special thanks to the Horowhenua-Kapiti 5, lost 5, scored 289 points, and 40 tries Rugby Union for hosting and the delivery scored.
Wellington Rugby Football Union (Incorporated) Annual Report 2020 12 Wellington Lions Team Managers Report
34 players were used in our 2020 6. External Relationships Wellington Hospitals Foundation We would also like to thank our Mitre 10 Cup season and the following Fortune Favours colleagues in Match Operations, The Wellington Lions Players continue milestones were celebrated by the team: Black & Gold Events Commercial, Community, Finance and to deliver off the field with community Burger King Administration. Their tireless efforts are • Nine players made their debut for interactions, meeting marketing Events.co.nz a great support to the Wellington Lions Wellington. Aidan Morgan, Ben obligations and maintaining relations Be a Tidy KIWI team. Aumua-Peseta, Bruce Kauika- with many of our valued sponsors. Gorilla Burgers Petersen, Caleb Delany, Josiah We recognise the importance of our To our volunteers, schools and rugby Tavita-Metcalfe, Ruben Love, Sam sponsors and their contributions to our Wellington Rugby Suppliers club community, who support us. Thank Smith, Taine Plumtree and Tyrone game. We sincerely thank them all and Gilbert Rugby you all! Thompson look forward to continued relationships USL Medical To our loyal and faithful fans who in 2021. POWA • Vince Aso and Xavier Numia gained continually support us - a big thank you Powerade their first cap having played 1000 Thank you to our Season Sponsors: to each of you from the Lions team. minutes for Wellington. QMS Sport Major You have all played a part in the season • James Blackwell, Vaea Fifita and Stonewood Homes of 2020. Wes Goosen had the distinction 7. Conclusion Paladin of appearing in 50 games for the COVID was a challenge for all, we learnt We are all looking forward to 2021! Rutherford & Bond Toyota province during the season. how to navigate and operate in a forever Mila Poutoa All Secure Self Storage changing landscape. This was a unique Wellington Lions 5. Team Environment / Williment Travel season for all. New Zealand Campus of Innovation and Manager 2020 Culture Sport Thank you to the team and our Coaches The management team and senior and Management Team who invested a players continued to promote the Back of Jersey lot of time in preparing and executing the traditions of pride in representing Acrow season both on and off the field. Wellington and their club. The Training Wilson & Hurst Base was themed with Wellington Lions GO Media rugby imagery. Club Day themes were Orange Box frequent in our Training Days. M e t a l C o n s t r u c t i o n C o ( 1 9 8 9 ) L t d Roblawmax Recruitment Due to the compact nature of the The Ballroom competition, opportunities for the BCD Travel team and their families to enjoy each NME other’s company outside of rugby Advanced Electrical were limited. The player’s partner’s The Green Man lounge on game day was a happy family Pzazz Building environment enjoyed by all. We also Tracer Construction Ltd gathered following the home games for Rydges pre and after match meals at the Rydges WQS Consultants Wellington, Greenman. These were well a*stream electrical patronised.
Wellington Rugby Football Union (Incorporated) Annual Report 2020 13 Wellington Pride
Played: Won: Lost: Points For: Points Against: 5 3 2 196 126
Management Team Head Coach: Ross Bond
Forwards Coach: Brendan Reidy
Backs Coach: Aaron Jones
Manager: Mareena Conley
Trainer: Ben Bealey
Head Physio: Chris Marshall
Assistant Physio: Anca Rozendaal
Video Analyst: Blair Mockett
Back Row: Ross Bond (Head Coach), Fa’asua Makisi, Charlene Gubb, Alia Ah Far, Barbra Taumoli, Thamsyn Newton, Evelyn Tea, Angelica Uila, Monica Tagoai, Precious Auimatagi, Ayesha Leti-I’iga, Acacia Claridge-Te Iwimate, Marcelle Parkes. Front Row: Isadora Laupola, Kolora Lomani, Sinead Toala-Ryder, Emily Dalley, Joanah Ngan-Woo (Captain), Georgia Daals, Montana Heslop, Nina Foaese, Alicia Print. Absent: Ana-Maria Afuie, Dhys Faleafaga, Lyric Faleafaga, Josephine Falesita, Sanita Levave, Raylene Lolo, Vaine Marsters, Tina Paulo, Jackie Patea-Fereti, Amanda Rasch, Alice Soper, Janet Taumoli, Rejieli Uluinayau, Brendan Reidy (Forwards Coach), Aaron Jones (Backs Coach), Mareena Conley (Manager), Chris Marshall (Head Physio), Anca Rozendaal (Physio), Ben Bealey (Trainer), Blair Mockett (Analyst).
Wellington Rugby Football Union (Incorporated) Annual Report 2020 14 Wellington Pride Pride Appearances 2020 Career Ana-Maria Afuie 2 17 Team Record Alia Ah Far 1 1 12 September v Tasman in Blenheim 3 October v Canterbury in Christchurch Precious Auimatagi 5 8 Won 60-0 Lost 12-54 Tyler Bentley 1 2 Tries: D Faleafaga (3), M Tagoai, T Newton Tries: G Daals, A Uila Acacia Claridge-Te Iwimate 5 55 J Patea-Fereti, C Gubb, J Ngan-Woo I Laupola, Con: T Newton S Toala-Ryder Georgia Daals 3 30 18 October v Otago in Porirua Con: T Newton (6) Emily Dalley 4 9 Won 27-24 19 September v Hawke’s Bay in Lower Hutt Tries: K Lomani (2), M Tagoai Dhys Faleafaga 3 9 Won 67-17 Con: T Newton (3) Lyric Faleafaga 3 5 Tries: A Leti-I’iga (4), L Faleafaga (3) D Faleafaga, Pen: T Newton (2) Josephine Falesita 1 1 T Newton, F Makisi S Toala-Ryder Nina Foaese 5 16 Con: T Newton (6) Charlene Gubb 5 5 25 September v Manawatu in Wellington Montana Heslop 5 13 Lost 28-31 Isadora Laupola 5 13 Tries: T Newton, A Leti-I’iga, J Ngan-Woo penalty try Ayesha Leti-I’iga 4 34 Con: T Newton (3) Sanita Levave 2 55 Raylene Lolo 3 24 Kolora Lomani 2 9 Fa’asua Makisi 4 44 Vaine Marsters 2 35 Thamsyn Newton 5 9 Joanah Ngan-Woo 5 53 Marcelle Parkes 5 8 Jackie Patea-Fereti 1 62 Alicia Print 2 32 Alice Soper 3 29 Monica Tagoai 5 22 Barbra Taumoli 3 10 Janet Taumoli 2 32 Evelyn Tea 3 3 Sinead Toala-Ryder 5 22 Angelica Uila 3 20 Rejieli Uluinayau 3 25
Wellington Rugby Football Union (Incorporated) Annual Report 2020 15 Wellington Pride Team Manager’s Report
We started with a pre-season game Season: a great start to the campaign as the girls International Honours: against Manawatu in Ōtaki, which gave cemented a very comfortable 62-0 win. The 2020 campaign saw changes Black Ferns: Jackie Patea-Fereti, the coaching staff a chance to assess our due to COVID, with the competition Next up was Hawke’s Bay at the Hutt Joanah Ngan-Woo, Ayesha Leti-I’iga, talented pool of new and returning players split into a North and South model, as Recreation Ground, where we saw a well- Marcelle Parkes following the truncated club season. opposed to the usual Premiership and deserved 67-17 win for the Pride. Black Ferns Development: Amanda After the squad announcement, Championship model. Feeling confident with two solid wins, Rasch which included 35 players, we played This model saw us compete in the South we came up against Manawatu at Sky Manawatu once more in Waikanae, Black Ferns Sevens: Dhys Faleafaga pool alongside Hawke’s Bay, Manawatu, Stadium, although this game didn’t go to with our players lined up to host a skills Tasman, Canterbury and Otago. plan and Manawatu proved too strong Manusina Samoa XV: Ana-Maria Afuie, session with local young female players, and we came away with a narrow loss of Josephine Falesita, Nina Foaese, Janet but unfortunately poor weather resulted Our first game had us travelling to 28-31. Taumoli in a cancellation. Lansdowne Park to play Tasman. It was Knowing our next game against Fiji: Rejieli Uluinayau defending champions Canterbury at Orangetheory Stadium will be a tough Conclusion: one, we knew we had to bring it all, Due to COVID and all the changes that although Canterbury deservedly took happened before the season started, it the game with the first 40 minutes was a learning curve for all involved and seeing our opposition putting too many we persevered to get things done. points on the scoreboard. Thank you to the team, supporters and A bye week to recoup followed. families, coaches and management, Our final match against Otago was Wellington Rugby and all who invested played at the esteemed Porirua Park, huge amounts of time and effort into this getting the job done with a narrow win of year’s campaign. 27-24. We are grateful to the following sponsors for the 2020 season support. Milestones: A big thank you to BCITO, RCR and Chief Joanah Ngan-Woo celebrated her 50th Construction for their support. game for the Pride against Hawke’s Bay at the Hutt Recreation Ground. Mareena Conley Wellington Pride Amanda Rasch remains the highest Manager 2020 individual points scorer for the Pride with 209 points despite being unavailable due to injury.
Ayesha Leti-I’iga holds the record for most Pride career tries with 46.
Wellington Rugby Football Union (Incorporated) Annual Report 2020 16 Wellington Secondary Schools Rugby
Despite all the delays and cancellations due to COVID, to an early lead with the game’s first two tries to Jonty College, Silverstream narrowly beat St Patrick’s College, an almost complete season of secondary school rugby Bird and Ieti Campbell. However, Silverstream struck Wellington 17-14 in the Christian Cullen Cup Boys’ was played in 2020. Participation numbers actually had back to take the lead just after half time, thanks to some Final. In the Girls’ Final, St Mary’s College again won a small increase, with more females playing at school in dynamic play and goal kicking from Riley Higgens. Scots the Kat Whata-Simpkins Trophy beating Sacred Heart 2020 compared to previous years. A big thank you to all struck back with tries to outside backs Sione Halalilo College 22-12. For the second year in a row though, the schools, coaches, volunteers, and caregivers who and Ayden Hammond in the second half, to eventually St Mary’s were beaten in pool play by Aotea College, stuck at it and gave our rangatahi the opportunity to win 24-21. which showed that the other schools are catching up to play rugby this year. the high standard of St Mary’s College. In the Under 15 Riley Higgins (Silverstream) was the top point scorer grade, St Patrick’s College Wellington beat St Bernard’s Rip Rugby continues to grow year on year. 41 teams (138) and try scorer (15) for all 1st XVs, closely followed College 26-12, and St Mary’s College beat Wellington registered to play in the tournament that was due to be by Newlands College’s Aaron Fawkes 100 points and East Girls’ 41-5. played in Term 1 before being cancelled. Wellington 13 tries. Rugby Football Union (WRFU) did run a tournament in All four under 18 finalists qualified for the Condor The Annual College Rugby Finals Day at St Patrick’s term 4, and despite schools being busy with exams, Nationals. However it was St Mary’s College Under College, Silverstream didn’t happen in 2020 due to there were 24 teams in total, including eight teams and 15’s team who came back from Auckland as national COVID 19, so finals were played at the top qualifier’s 70 students from Aotea College. A big thank you to champions, after beating St Peter’s Cambridge (17-5) home field. And while it meant many of the Wellington WRFU and your Club GDOs for delivering this. in the quarterfinal, Howick College in the semi-finals Secondary School Rugby Union (WSSRU) executive (22-19), and then the final against One Tree Hill (15-12) While the annual Hurricanes Under 15 tournament were racing around the region to get to games, teams who had beaten hot-favourites Manukura 17-12 in the fell victim to COVID, we were lucky enough to run the seemed to like playing at home if they had earned it. other semi-final. Hurricanes Under 14 festival during secondary school In the Girls Premier 1 Final, St Mary’s College beat winter tournament week. This joint project between At the College Sport Awards, Valini Vaka (St Mary’s Tawa College 60-22. St Mary’s pulled out to an early WSSRU and WRFU in its third year, aims to engage College) and Riley Higgins (St Patrick’s College, lead and never looked back. Tawa showed lots of students into the game, rather than focussing on high Silverstream) were named College Sport Wellington courage though, and scored four fantastic tries in the performance. Rugby Players of the Year. And while there was no second half, with great play from Tamara Ngatuakana- international programme this year, it was also great to At the end of Term 3, the Tranzit Coachlines 1st XV Ruaporo. In the Premier 2 Girls Final Sacred Heart see other Wellington secondary school players named Wellington Premiership final was played between Scots beat Naenae College 53-29, while St Mary’s College in paper NZ teams: College and St Patrick’s College Silverstream at Porirua beat Wainuiomata High School 39-17 in the Under 15 Park in front of 2500 spectators. In a repeat of the Development grade. 2019 Final, defending champions Scots jumped out Wellington players selected for National Teams: While the National Top 4 competition was cancelled due to COVID 19, St Mary’s College 1st XV got the chance for further honours, qualifying for the Hurricanes Girls 2020 New Zealand Secondary Schools 1st XV Final against Manukura. The fast paced, physical Hanz Leota (Scots College), Riley Higgins game was a great spectacle, and the 10-all full time (Silverstream), Siale Lauaki (St Pat’s Town) score reflected how even the top two girls teams in 2020 New Zealand Schools Barbarians region are. No 8 Valini Vaka was fantastic on attack and Bradley Crichton (St Pat’s Town), Christian defence, and prop Sia Tolova’a-Uele was fantastic in the Stenhouse (St Pat’s Town), Dominic Ropeti (Scots tight. College), Owen Wright (Aotea College) In the Condor Regional Sevens Qualifiers, St Patrick’s
Wellington Rugby Football Union (Incorporated) Annual Report 2020 17 Wellington Secondary Schools Rugby
On behalf of all secondary schools, we would like to Wellington 15-a-side Grade winners: Sevens thank the Wellington Rugby Referees Association for your hard work in ensuring we have referees at Premiership Scots College Christan Cullen - Boys Cup St Patrick’s College, Silv our games. WSSRU would also like to thank all rugby Premier 2 Upper Hutt College Kat Simpkins - Girls Cup St Mary’s College administrators and convenors at the schools for their valued contribution to the promotion of the game, and Premier 3 Scots 2XV Under 15 Boys Cup St Patrick’s College, Wgtn to the managers, coaches, and parent helpers of the Premier 4 St Bernard’s 2XV Under 15 Girls Cup St Mary’s College teams for their volunteerism with secondary school rugby. Coed Cup Not played for in 2020
WSSRU would also like to sincerely thank WRFU Girls Premier 1 St Mary’s College Rip Rugby staff who left during 2020: Will Cacia-Birch, Mason Girls Premier 2 Sacred Heart College Senior Boys Porirua College Malagamaali’I, and Fuamai Taumoli-Moeka’a. Mason and Fuamai were fantastic resources for our secondary Girls Under 15 St Mary’s College Senior Girls Aotea College schools and their rangatahi, and Will has been a great Under 15 Div 1 Wellington College Senior Mixed Hutt Valley High School supporter of secondary school rugby and College Sport Wellington over his 15 plus years in the role. You Under 15 Div 2 Paraparaumu College Junior Boys St Bernard’s College all will be great missed by our schools. Under 15 Div 3 Hutt Valley High School Junior Girls Newlands College
2020 Wellington Secondary Schools Under 80kg Wellington College Junior Mixed Aotea College
Rugby Union Executive: Under 65 kg Div 1 St Patrick’s College, Silverstream AWD Not Played for in 2020 Chair & Martin Isberg (Hutt Valley High School) Treasurer: Under 65 kg Div 2 Scots College Secretary: David Fa’atafa (College Sport Wellington) Under 55 kg Hutt International Boys’ School Executive: Jessica Anderton (HIBS), Martin Dudley (Onslow College), Tim Fox (Hutt Valley High School), Justin Gray (Rongotai College), Darrell Harvey (Wellington College), Scott Maclean (WRRA), Kane Mokomoko (Aotea College), Sam Rasch (Scots College), Mason Malagamaali’i (WRFU), Misha Kravcenko (Naenae College). David Fa’atafa Sport & Project Manager College Sport Wellington
Wellington Rugby Football Union (Incorporated) Annual Report 2020 18 Junior Rugby Advisory Board
Chairperson: Lucy Barry • Played junior rugby through a second Level 2 and increased the number of players playing in the Board: Kane Mokomoko – Appointed lockdown and clubs celebrated end of season in correct grade. 2021 will see continuing use of these Bex Dixon – Appointed a number of ways to fit with the COVID-19 level new weights with further review of U13 grade required. Lance Ehu – Elected requirements. Dean Murphy – Elected • Craig Le Quesne (Western Suburbs) was awarded Our Ongoing Concerns David Cournane – Elected Junior Rugby volunteer of the year for his long While 2020 was successful after the delayed start and 2020 was a year filled with challenges. COVID-19 hit service and on going commitment to Junior rugby. challenges COVID-19 set Junior rugby continues to just as our junior season planning started but after have a number of struggles. lockdown, it was all go for our amazing junior convenors U11 Adapted play model • Negative sideline behaviour – This again was an and their teams leapt into action, adapting to a new 2020 saw the implementation of the new NZRU U11 issue across the region. Several incidents needed norm, with registrations very close to our 2019 numbers model with 10-a-side teams continuing to play half-field review and management by JRAB, as well as the season commenced successfully. Unfortunately, to increase opportunity to develop key skills in passing, on incident seeing 2 junior clubs in front of the with the loss of resource from the impact of COVID-19 tackling and increasing minutes on ball per player. Judiciary. we were unable to run our development programmes, Overall, this a positive initiative that achieved the set U13 Grade remains problematic. This grade has but we did fit in a full 14 weeks of rugby. goals. Although the initial response was mixed, it is now low numbers based on the number of children set as the new norm for U11 rugby. 2020 Highlights born in the second half of a given year (the only group eligible on age to U13) and the number of • 14 weeks of rugby. The first year we have played Weight/Grade Review these players the sit between 46-55kg and not through the July school holidays which was a 2020 was the first season with the new weight limits. We comfortable moving to an open grade. challenge, but successful for those who played. saw a drop in dispensation requests across all grades • Pathways for players from Junior rugby to college rugby remain separate and need to be much more fluid to maintain and grow our player numbers.
JRAB’s sustainability is at risk. At the end of 2020, Bex Dixon stepped down from the board to follow a new path. I want to take this opportunity to thank her for all her work on JRAB and wish her luck for the future. Thank you to all the convenors, volunteers and WRFU staff that have supported me this year as JRAB Chair.
Lucy Barry Chairperson Junior Rugby Advisory Board
Wellington Rugby Football Union (Incorporated) Annual Report 2020 19 Wellington Rugby Referees Association
2020 – a very interesting year for that one particular emanates from club representatives, players, and more High Performance refereeing and appointments for reason, and will probably forever be remembered and disappointingly, managers and coaches – not everyone our members at this level were significantly affected in known, as the “COVID Season”. obviously, but too many to ignore, and last season 2020 as the Heartland Championship was put aside, so where a number of games did not have spectators, it no appointments there, and a decision was made that Community Rugby and refereeing were again dealing was very clear where untoward comments were coming the Professional Referee group would be used wherever with issues confronting our game before the pandemic from – this has always been unacceptable behaviour, possible in the Mitre 10 Cup, so very few opportunities struck, and these probably got set aside as we then but is now reaching crisis point with the WRRA losing there. Hopefully, with possible significant financial tried to deal with, and survive through, the rugby more referees due to it. It is ironic that we never hear funding coming internationally for the NZR, many things season. abuse of players for their mistakes, but referees appear for Community Rugby will improve. Fortunately in Wellington we ended up with close to a “to be fair game”. Mike Fraser continues to represent us at the top of the full season and a great finals day at Petone Rec, which If this issue is not seriously taken heed of by clubs (and game and also actively supports our refereeing training many of referees avidly look forward to. at the end of the day this reflects on you) and behaviour and development, here in Wellington. An issue I touched on in last year’s report continued standards set and adhered to by the clubs, we will very Unfortunately we are saying goodbye to our top 3 club to raise its ugly head and affect refereeing – this is the soon have grades with no referees – we are volunteers rugby referees for a variety of reasons: Richard Gordon, abuse of referees, both overt and subtle, that too often with jobs and families, who give up our time to referee Nick Hogan & Vincent Ringrose. A congratulations goes and AR, often a number of games over a weekend, pay to Richard who finished off refereeing his 5th Jubilee for the privilege of doing that, and then have to put up Cup final before departing our shores. with on and off-field abuse & unsavoury comment – my plea is for clubs & the community to not just pay lip- To all our referees and their supporting families, our service to this issue and start positive action right now. rugby community thanks go to you for your contribution to our game and the time you give up to assist. The WRRA was very thankful for the on-going support from our sponsors and alliance partners during 2020, To the clubs and colleges who actively support around particularly our principal sponsor, TSB bank – it is terrific each game, thankyou for that - every little bit of support for them to show their community involvement by is helpful and greatly appreciated. supporting the rugby referees. Ian Dallas Home Legal came on board at the start of the season WRRA Chairperson and their logo is now on our jersey sleeve as is the logo for Kapura who have been supportive of the WRRA in the ways that they can. Mike Pinfold Plumbing & Gas and El Cheapo Cars are our other main secondary sponsors and their support is critical for us and is greatly appreciated.
Others who supported us are Jeremy Sprott of BC4B, McCormack Group, Direct Sports, PWMC, PRFC, Gripfast and the WRFU – a thankyou to all those, and to Michael Langley & Emma Paisley for their individual support.
Wellington Rugby Football Union (Incorporated) Annual Report 2020 20 2020 Club Grade Winners
PREMIER WOMEN
Division One 1st round Rebecca Liua'ana Trophy Oriental Rongotai
PREMIER MEN
1st round Swindale Shield Marist St Pats
Division One 2nd round Jubilee Cup Old Boys University
Jim Brown Medal (MVP of the Jubilee Cup final) recipient Dale Sabbagh (Old Boys University)
Division Two 2nd round Hardham Cup Wainuiomata
Division Three 2nd round 9th Place Playoff Poneke
PREMIER RESERVE
1st round Harper Lock Shield Northern United Division One 2nd round Ed Chaney Cup Marist St Pats
Division Two 2nd round HD Morgan Memorial Cup Old Boys University
Division Three 2nd round Johnsonville Centennium Cup Stokes Valley
UNDER 21 GRADE
1st round Paris Memorial Trophy Old Boys University Division One 2nd round John E Kelly Memorial Cup Old Boys University
Division Two 2nd round Vic Calcinai Memorial Cup Hutt Old Boys Marist
FIRST GRADE
Division One 1st round Thompson Memorial Cup Stokes Valley
85KG RESTRICTED
1st round JC Bowl Upper Hutt Rams Division One 2nd round Paul Potiki Memorial Shield Upper Hutt Rams
Division Two 2nd round Tony O'Brien Shield Marist St Pats
RESERVE GRADE
Division One 1st round Mike Copeland Cup Oriental Rongotai
Wellington Rugby Football Union (Incorporated) Annual Report 2020 21 Post Season Club Competitions
CLUB AWARDS AMBASSADOR SEVENS SERIES STANDINGS
Men’s Grade Round One Round Two Grand Total DEWAR SHIELD 1 Old Boys University Northern United 20 20 40 (Total Points) 2 Northern United Oriental Rongotai Black 18 18 36 3 Upper Hutt Rams Hutt Old Boys Marist 14 16 30 SIR WILLIAM PERRY MEMORIAL TROPHY 1 Oriental Rongotai Old Boys University 10 16 26 (Average Points Per Team) 2 Tawa Petone 16 0 16 3 Marist St Pats Johnsonville 8 8 16 Wainuiomata - 12 12 Stokes Valley 6 4 10 Poneke 4 6 10 Upper Hutt Rams 0 10 10 Marist St Pats 3 0 3 Wellington - 3 3 Oriental Rongotai White - 2 2
Women’s Grade Oriental Rongotai 20 20 40 Marist St Pats Red 18 18 36 Hutt Old Boys Marist 16 14 30 Petone 14 16 30 Marist St Pats Blue - 12 12 Avalon 12 - 12 Old Boys University 10 - 10
Wellington Rugby Football Union (Incorporated) Annual Report 2020 22 Old Boys University WRFU Premier Men Jubilee Cup Champions Division One Rugby Football Club
Wellington Rugby Football Union (Incorporated) Annual Report 2020 23 WRFU Premier Women Rebecca Liua’ana Oriental-Rongotai Division One Trophy Champions Football Club
Wellington Rugby Football Union (Incorporated) Annual Report 2020 24 Bill Brien Challenge Cup Gary Hilsdon Challenge Cup committees totalled 14. This is a significant decrease from 42 matters in 2019 and 2018’s total of 23 matters. Coming into the 2020 season, Old Boys University held At the start of the 2020 season, Northern United held the Bill Brien Challenge Cup. Their first defence of the the Gary Hilsdon Challenge Cup. Their first defence of Most matters dealt with were for on-field foul play season was in week one against Poneke, where they the season was against Old Boys University, where they however there were six instances of Verbal Referee came out on top 25-5. won 54-7. Northern United successfully defended the Abuse which is both intolerable and inexcusable. cup on four occasions, with their reign well lived as they Overall, the treatment of referees by players, coaches Old Boys University managed to defend the cup will hold onto the cup over the break ready for 2021. and spectators is an area that requires attention and six times during the season and will hold onto the will be subject to a renewed zero-tolerance approach in silverware over the break. W1 Northern United 54 7 Old Boys 2021. Clubs will be asked to take more ownership in this Old Boys University’s first defence in 2021 will be University space to try clamp down on this poor behaviour. against Hutt Old Boys Marist in week two of the W2 Northern United BYE Sadly 2020 ended on a sour note with a significant Swindale Shield. W3 Northern United AWAY incident taking place in the final leg of the American W1 Old Boys University 25 5 Poneke W4 Northern United AWAY Ambassador sevens series. This incident garnered significant media interest and resulted in bans to W2 Old Boys University 33 16 Northern W5 Northern United WBD LBD Avalon four players, a spectator, and a Club. At the time of United writing this matter is subject to appeal so has not fully W6 Northern United AWAY W3 Old Boys University AWAY concluded.w W4 Old Boys University 52 7 Johnsonville W7 Northern United 84 5 Petone We thank Gerard Dewar for his Chairpersonship of W8 Northern United 41 24 Marist St Pats W5 Old Boys University 38 7 Upper Hutt the Disciplinary Committee, Gary Gosper as DJO and W9 Northern United AWAY Rams Murray Usmar and Nigel Hughes as Complaints Review W6 Old Boys University AWAY Officers. We also thank Tomas Roche & Jury Teniteni- W7 Old Boys University AWAY Disciplinary Smeaton for their services as Judicial Administrators With the shortened season the number of disciplinary and Michael Langley for his continued support on W8 Old Boys University AWAY matters requiring the attention of the relevant behalf of WRFU. W9 Old Boys University 17 0 Wellington W10 Old Boys University 30 23 Petone W11 Old Boys University AWAY W12 Old Boys University AWAY Obituaries W13 Old Boys University AWAY Dave Painter Warren (Oscar) Voss (Upper Hutt Rams RFC, WRFU Delegate, (Athletic RFC) Upper Hutt Rams RFC Life Member) Died August 2020 Died November 2020 Moray Bevan Eddie Tonks (Poneke FC) (Onslow RFC, Western Suburbs RFC, WRFU Died August 2020 Chairperson 1977-89, NZR Chairperson 1990-95) Died October 2020
Wellington Rugby Football Union (Incorporated) Annual Report 2020 25 Consolidated Financial Statements For the Year Ended 31 December 2020
Contents
Auditor’s Report 27 Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Revenue and Expense 28 Consolidated Statement of Changes in Net Assets 29 Consolidated Statement of Financial Position 30 Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows 32 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements 34
Wellington Rugby Football Union (Incorporated) Annual Report 2020 26 Chartered Accountants
Independent Auditor's Report To the Members of Wellington Rugby Football Union (Incorporated) Report on the Financial Statements We have audited the financial statements of the Wellington Rugby Football Union (Incorporated) (‘the Union’) and its subsidiaries (‘group’) on pages 35 to 44, which comprise the statement of financial position of the Union and group as at 31 December 2015, and the statement of comprehensive income and statement of changes in equity for the year then ended of the Union and group, and a summary of significant accounting policies and other explanatory information. This report is made solely to the Union’s members, as a body, in accordance with the Union’s Constitution. Our audit has been undertaken so that we might state to the Union’s members those matters we are required to state to them in an auditor's report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the Union and the Union’s members as a body, for our audit work, forChartered this report, Accountants or for the opinions we have formed. Chartered Accountants Directors’ Responsibility for the Financial Statements The directors are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements, in accordance with generally accepted accounting practice in New Zealand and that give a true and fair view of the matters to which they relate, and for such internal control as the directors determine is necessary to enable the preparation of financial IndependentIndependent Auditor's auditor’s Report report to the We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is Standards Reduced Disclosure Regime, and for such internal sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. statementscontrol as those that charged are free with from governance material determine misstatement, is whether due to fraud or error. MembersTo the Members of Wellingtonof Wellington Rugby Rugby Football Football Union (Incorporated) Other than in our capacity as auditor we have no relationship Auditor'snecessary toResponsibility enable the preparation of financial statements UnionReport on Incorporated the Financial Statements with, or interest in, the group. Partners and employees of that are free from material misstatement, whether due to Ourfraud responsibility or error. is to express an opinion on the financial statements based on our audit. We conducted our audit ReportWe have audited on the the audit financial of thestatements financial of the Wellington Rugby Footballour firm Union may deal(Incorporated) with the group (‘the on Union’) normal and terms within the statementsits subsidiaries (‘group’) on pages 35 to 44, which comprise the statementordinary of course financial of trading position activities of the Union of the and business of the inIn accordancepreparing the financialwith International statements, Standardsthose charged on withAuditing (New Zealand). These auditing standards require that we group as at 31 December 2015, and the statement of comprehensivegroup. income and statement of changes in equity complygovernance with are relevant responsible ethical for assessing requirements on behalf and of theplan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about Opinion for the year then ended of the Union and group, and a summary ofMaterial significant uncertainty accounting related policies to and Going other Concern whetherentity the thegroup’s financial ability to statements continue as aare going free concern, from material misstatement. Weexplanatory have audited information. the financial statements of Wellington disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern We draw attention to Note 1 in the financial statements, Rugby Football Union Incorporated (the ‘Union’) and its An audit involves performing procedures to obtain audit evidence about the amounts and disclosures in the This report is made solely to the Union’s members, as a body, in accordancewhich highlights with the the Union’s uncertainty Constitution. of the Group’s Our forecast and using the going concern basis of accounting unless subsidiaries (‘the group’) on pages 28 to 52, which comprise financial statements. The procedures selected, depend on our judgement, including the assessment of the risks of audit has been undertaken so that we might state to the Union’s membersrevenues those for the matters 2021 we financial are required year. Thisto state indicates that a those charged with governance either intend to liquidate the the statement of financial position of the group as at 31 to them in an auditor's report and for no other purpose. To the fullestmaterial extent uncertainty permitted exists by law, that we maydo not cast accept significant doubt materialgroup or cease misstatement operations, of or thehave financial no realistic statements, alternative whether due to fraud or error. In making those risk December 2020, the statement of comprehensive revenue or assume responsibility to anyone other than the Union and the Union’son the members group’s ability as a body, to continue for our as audit a going work, concern. The assessments,but to do so. we have considered the internal control relevant to the entity’s preparation of the financial andfor this expenses, report, statementor for the opinionsof changes we inhave net formed. assets and financial statements do not include any adjustments relating statementsAuditor’s responsibilities that give a truefor the and audit fair of view the financial of the matters to which they relate in order to design audit procedures statement of cash flows for the year then ended of the Directors’ Responsibility for the Financial Statements to the recoverability and classification of recorded asset thatstatements are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of group, and the notes to the financial statements including a amounts or to the amounts and classification of liabilities summaryThe directors of significant are responsible accounting for the policies.preparation of the financial statements, in accordance with generally theOur entity’sobjectives internal are to obtain control. reasonable An audit assurance also includes about evaluating the appropriateness of accounting policies used and that might be necessary should the entity not continue as a thewhether reasonableness the financial statementsof accounting as a wholeestimates, are free asfrom well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial Inaccepted our opinion, accounting the financial practice statements in New Zealand on pages and that28 to give 52 a true and fair view of the matters to which they relate, and for such internal control as the directors determine is necessarygoing to enable concern. the Ourpreparation opinion isof not financial modified in respect of this statements.material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position statements that are free from material misstatement, whether duematter. to fraud or error. of the group as at 31 December 2020 and its financial and to issue an auditor’s report that includes our opinion. Information other than the financial statements and We believe we have obtained sufficient and appropriate audit evidence to provide a basis for our audit opinion. performanceAuditor's Responsibility and cash flows for the year then ended in Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is auditor’s report not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance accordanceOur responsibility with Public is to express Benefit an Entity opinion Standards on the financiaReducedl statements based on our audit. We conducted our audit We provide agreed upon procedures to the Union in relating to its satisfaction of reporting obligations to grants it Those charged with governance are responsible for the with International Standards on Auditing (New Zealand) Disclosurein accordance Regime. with International Standards on Auditing (New Zealand). These auditing standards require that we receives. We have no other relationship with, or interest in the Union. Annual Report, which includes information other than the will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Thiscomply report with is relevant made solely ethical to requirementsthe group’s members. and plan Ourand perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about financial statements and auditor’s report. PartnersMisstatements and employeescan arise from of fraud our orfirm error may and dealare with the Union on normal terms within the ordinary course of trading auditwhether has the been financial undertaken statements so that are we free might from state material to the misstatement. considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they group’s members those matters we are required to state to Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover activities of the business of the Union. An audit involves performing procedures to obtain audit evidence about the amounts and disclosures in the could reasonably be expected to influence the economic them in an auditor’s report and for no other purpose. To the the other information and we do not express any form of financial statements. The procedures selected, depend on our judgement, including the assessment of the risks of Opiniondecisions of users taken on the basis of these financial fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume assurance conclusion thereon. material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to fraud or error. In making those risk statements. responsibilityassessments, towe anyone have considered other than the the internal group and control the relevant to theIn connectionentity’s preparation with our ofaudit the of financial the financial statements, our In our opinion, the financial statements on pages 35 to 44: group’sstatements members, that give for a our true audit and work, fair view for this of the report, matters or for to the which theyresponsibility relate in order is to to read design the otheraudit informationprocedures and, in doing A further description of our responsibilities for the audit of opinionsthat are appropriate we have formed. in the circumstances, but not for the purpose so,of expressing consider whether an opinion the on other the informationeffectiveness is ofmaterially ►the financialcomply statements with generally is located accepted at the External accounting Reporting practice in New Zealand; and the entity’s internal control. An audit also includes evaluating the appropriatenessinconsistent with of the accounting financial policies statements used andor our knowledge Board website: https://www.xrb.govt.nz/standards-for- Basis for opinion ► fairly present the financial position of the Union and group as at 31 December 2015 and the financial the reasonableness of accounting estimates, as well as evaluating theobtained overall during presentation the audit, of orthe otherwise financial appears to be assurance-practitioners/auditors-responsibilities/audit- We conducted our audit in accordance with International statements. materially misstated. report-7/performance. This description of the forms Union part and of our group auditor’s for report. the year then ended. Standards on Auditing (New Zealand). Our responsibilities We believe we have obtained sufficient and appropriate audit evidence to provide a basis for our audit opinion. under those standards are further described in the Auditor’s If, based upon the work we have performed on the other ResponsibilitiesWe provide agreed for uponthe Audit procedures of the Financial to the Union Statements in relating to its satisfactioninformation of obtained reporting prior obligations to the date to ofgrants this auditor’sit report, sectionreceives. of We our have report. no other relationship with, or interest in the Union.we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact. We WePartners are independent and employees of the of groupour firm in accordancemay deal with with the Union on normal terms within the ordinary course of trading Wellington have nothing to report in this regard. Professionalactivities of the and business Ethical Standard of the Union. 1 International Code of 1424 March 2021 2016 Those charged with governance responsibilities for the Wellington EthicsOpinion for Assurance Practitioners (including International Independence Standards) (New Zealand) issued by the New financial statements ZealandIn our opinion, Auditing the and financial Assurance statements Standards on pages Board, 35 and to 44:we Those charged with Governance are responsible, on behalf have► fulfilledcomply withour generallyother ethical accepted responsibilities accounting in practiceaccordance in New Zealand;of the entity, and for the preparation and fair presentation of the with these requirements. financial statements in accordance with Public Benefit Entity A member firm of Ernst & Young Global Limited ► fairly present the financial position of the Union and group as at 31 December 2015 and the financial performance of the Union and group for the year then ended. Wellington Rugby Football Union (Incorporated) Annual Report 2020 27
A member firm of Ernst & Young Global Limited
14 March 2016 Wellington
A member firm of Ernst & Young Global Limited Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Revenue and Expense For the Year Ended 31 December 2020
Note 2020 2019 $ $
Revenue 2
Community rugby 1,516,366 2,317,263 High performance rugby 1,791,832 2,483,258 Event management 837,188 1,212,461 Governance and administration 963,777 146,154
Total revenue 5,109,163 6,159,136 3 Expenses
Community rugby 1,010,675 1,798,152 High performance rugby 2,317,086 2,901,425 Event management - 74,201 Governance and administration 1,622,750 1,602,041
Total expenses 4,950,511 6,375,820
Surplus / (deficit) before associates and income tax 158,652 (216,684)
Share of profit from associates 14 296,677 157,423
Results from Discontinued Operations 15 - 150,585
Surplus / (deficit) before income tax 455,329 91,324
Income tax expense 20 (1,127) (17,838)
Total comprehensive revenue and expense attributable to members 456,456 109,162
The above statement should be read in conjunction with the notes to the financial statements.
Wellington Rugby Football Union (Incorporated) Annual Report 2020 28 Consolidated Statement of Changes in Net Assets For the Year Ended 31 December 2020
Note 2020 2019 $ $
Opening accumulated comprehensive revenue and expense 3,445,480 3,336,316
Surplus / (deficit) after income tax 456,456 109,163
Other comprehensive revenue and expense - -
Total comprehensive revenue and expense for the year 456,456 109,163
Closing accumulated comprehensive revenue and expense 3,901,936 3,445,480
The above statement should be read in conjunction with the notes to the financial statements.
Wellington Rugby Football Union (Incorporated) Annual Report 2020 29 Consolidated Statement of Financial Position For the Year Ended 31 December 2020
Note 2020 2019 $ $
Current assets Cash and cash equivalents 9 478,300 472,892 Investment in Associates 1,893,426 1,846,749 Trade receivables and prepayments 6 832,311 564,624 Total current assets 3,204,037 2,884,265
Non current assets Property, plant and equipment 7 1,366,595 1,500,173 Intangible assets 8 25,025 41,957 Total non-current assets 1,391,620 1,542,130
Total assets 4,595,657 4,426,395
Current liabilities Trade creditors and accruals 10 549,510 630,678 Employee entitlements 12 104,212 71,708 Revenue received in advance 11 40,000 234,769 Provision for income tax 20 - (22,906) Liability owing to associates - 66,667
Total current liabilities 693,721 980,915
Non-current liabilities Liability owing to associates - - Total non-current liabilities - -
The above statement should be read in conjunction with the notes to the financial statements.
Wellington Rugby Football Union (Incorporated) Annual Report 2020 30 Consolidated Statement of Financial Position For the Year Ended 31 December 2020
Note 2020 2019 $ $
Total liabilities 693,721 980,915
Net assets 3,901,936 3,445,480
Net assets attributable to members
Accumulated comprehensive revenue and expense 3,901,936 3,445,480
Total net assets attributable to members 3,901,936 3,445,480
For and on behalf of the Board, which authorised the issue of the financial statements on 24 March 2021.
24 March 2021 Director Director
The above statement should be read in conjunction with the notes to the financial statements.
Wellington Rugby Football Union (Incorporated) Annual Report 2020 31 Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows For the Year Ended 31 December 2020
2020 2019 $ $
Cash from operating activities Cash was provided from: Match revenue 18,899 162,322 Sponsorship revenue 284,014 842,677 Grants and NZRU funding 2,522,763 3,254,658 Management services 255,007 782,828 Interest received 159 459 Other 980,201 435,190 Discontinued operations proceeds - 739,130 Total cash provided 4,061,042 6,217,267
Cash was applied to: Payments to suppliers and employees 4,249,354 6,193,013 Income taxes paid (25,904) 10,196 GST (net) 70,704 (96,649) Total cash applied 4,294,154 6,106,560
Total cashflows from operating activities (233,112) 110,707
Cash from investing activities
Cash was provided from: Proceeds from distribution from associates 250,000 150,000 Total cash provided 250,000 150,000
The above statement should be read in conjunction with the notes to the financial statements.
Wellington Rugby Football Union (Incorporated) Annual Report 2020 32 Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows For the Year Ended 31 December 2020
2020 2019 $ $
Cash was applied to: Purchase of property, plant and equipment 11,481 191,991 Capital Work In Progress - - Total cash applied 11,481 191,991
Total cashflows from investing activities 238,519 (41,991)
Net increase / (decrease) in cash held 5,407 68,716 Opening cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the year 472,892 404,179 Cash and cash equivalents at balance date 478,300 472,892
The above statement should be read in conjunction with the notes to the financial statements.
Wellington Rugby Football Union (Incorporated) Annual Report 2020 33 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements For the Year Ended 31 December 2020
1 Statement of Accounting Policies Reporting entity Wellington Rugby Football Union Incorporated (WRFU) is a society incorporated under the Incorporated Societies Act 1908. Its registered office is 191 Thorndon Quay, Wellington.
The consolidated financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2020 comprise WRFU (the Parent) and its controlled entities, Wellington Rugby Limited (WRL), Wellington Rugby Trust (WRT), Grassroots Rugby Trust (GRT) and Grassroots Rugby Limited (collectively the Group).
Statement of compliance The consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with New Zealand Generally Accepted Accounting Practices (NZ GAAP). They comply with Public Benefit Entity Standards Reduced Disclosure Regime (PBE Standards RDR) as appropriate for Tier 2 Not-For-Profit entities. The consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Tier 2 PBE Standards and disclosure concessions have been applied. The Group qualifies for Tier 2 PBE Standards because it does not have public accountability and it is not large.
Basis of preparation The consolidated financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis. The measurement base applied is historical cost.
The consolidated financial statements are presented in New Zealand dollars.
Presentation The consolidated statement of comprehensive revenue and expense has been prepared presenting classes of revenue and expenditure based on the functions of the Group’s operations. Presentation by function requires judgement to determine the business units of the Group and allocate revenue and expenses between these units appropriately.
Summary of significant accounting policies Significant accounting policies are included in the notes to which they relate. Significant accounting policies that do not relate to a specific note are outlined below.
Goods and Services Tax
Items in the financial statements are presented exclusive of GST, except for receivables and payables, which are presented on a GST-inclusive basis. Where GST is not recoverable as input tax, it is recognised as part of the related asset or expense.
The net amount of GST recoverable from, or payable to, the IRD is included as part of receivables or payables in the statement of financial position. The net GST paid to, or received from, the IRD, including the GST relating to investing and financing activities, is classified as a net operating cash flow in the statement of cash flows.
Commitments and contingencies are disclosed exclusive of GST.
Wellington Rugby Football Union (Incorporated) Annual Report 2020 34 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements – continued For the Year Ended 31 December 2020
Critical accounting estimates and judgements In preparing these financial statements, the Group has made estimates and assumptions concerning the future. These estimates and assumptions may differ from the subsequent actual results. Estimates and assumptions are continually evaluated and are based on historical experience and other factors, including expectations of future events that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances.
The estimates and assumptions that have a significant risk of causing a material adjustment to the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities within the next financial year are:
- Useful lives and residual values of property, plant, and equipment - refer to note 7
Critical judgements in applying accounting policies Management has exercised critical judgement in applying accounting policies in the following area:
- Revenue recognition timing for grants received - refer to note 2 - Recognition of investment in associates asset. Management considers there to be no impairment in the Group’s investment in the Hurricanes on the basis of their sound operational and financial position and the relative value of its investment as a percentage of the associates total assets. - Preparation of financial statements using the going concern basis.
Going Concern The financial year ended 31 December 2020 was significantly affected by the outbreak of a novel coronavirus, known as ‘coronavirus disease 2019’ (‘COVID-19’).
With overall economic activity reduced throughout the 2020 year because of the health measures put in place to combat COVID-19, sources of revenue changed significantly from those originally forecast. Government subsidies became a primary revenue stream in place of other forms of commercial revenue which decreased significantly due to a nationwide downturn in economic activity.
Despite COVID-19 continuing to be well contained in New Zealand, Wellington Rugby has identified that, as at balance date, material uncertainties still exist relating to forecast revenues for the 2021 financial year.
Directors and management have spent a considerable amount of time reviewing future revenues and costs to ensure Wellington Rugby remains sustainable if impacted by future outbreaks.
Both directors and management have confidence in the responses of the government and health sectors, who currently rely on short, sharp, and localised responses as opposed to nationwide lockdowns. At the time of writing, the rollout and distribution of a nationwide vaccine program is currently underway. This program is expected to prove a major mitigant on the impact of any future outbreaks. The vaccine program will be significantly progressed when Wellington Rugby’s major revenue generating activities are scheduled in the third quarter of the year. This increases management’s confidence of maximising the 2021 rugby program.
Directors and management have considered and reaffirmed Wellington Rugby’s application of the going concern basis as an appropriate basis for preparing these financial statements.
Wellington Rugby Football Union (Incorporated) Annual Report 2020 35 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements – continued For the Year Ended 31 December 2020
2 Revenue Accounting policy Match income
Income from the sale of tickets is recognised as revenue when the match is held. Season tickets purchased for future seasons are recognised as revenue in advance for the proportion of matches that the tickets are valid for the subsequent year.
Sponsorship revenue
Sponsorship received in monetary form is recognised as revenue in advance until all services under the sponsorship agreement have been provided, at which point the sponsorship is recorded as revenue. Sponsorship received in kind is recorded as revenue with a corresponding recognition of expenditure, based on fair value, at the point in time at which the in-kind services to which the sponsorship relates are performed.
Management services provided
Income obtained from services provided is recognised in the accounting period in which the services are rendered, in proportion to the stage of completion at balance date of the specific event in relation to which services are provided.
Interest income
Interest income is recognised as it accrues using the effective interest method.
Grant funding
Grants are recognised in the statement of comprehensive income when the requirements under the grant agreement have been met. Any grants for which the requirements under the grant agreement have not been met are carried as grants received in advance liability until all conditions have been fulfilled.
Rental income
Rental income from operating leases is recognised on a straight-line basis over the lease term.
Volunteer services
Coaching and other management roles for many teams within the Group are volunteer roles. Volunteer services are not recognised as revenue or expenditure by the Group.
Critical judgements in applying accounting policies
The Group must exercise judgement when recognising grant revenue to determine when conditions of the grant contract have been satisfied. In the current year, the Group has received grants from various organisations, some of which require certain conditions to be met. Unsatisfactory performance in meeting these conditions can result in the grants being reclaimed by the grantors. The Group has not recognised as revenue any grants received for which, in the Group’s judgement, the conditions attached have not been fulfilled or not expected to be fulfilled. A liability has been recognised to the extent of cash received from grants that the Group has been unable to recognise as revenue in the current year – refer note 12.
Wellington Rugby Football Union (Incorporated) Annual Report 2020 36 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements – continued For the Year Ended 31 December 2020
Note Community High Event/Club Governance Total rugby performance Management and $ rugby $ administration $ $ $
2020
Exchange revenue Match income - 325,710 - - 325,710 Sponsorship revenue 12,900 520,328 - - 533,228 Management services provided - - 417,083 - 417,083 Rental income - - 420,105 - 420,105 Other 10,860 (2,112) - 761,526 770,275 Non-exchange revenue Grant funding 547,964 - - - 547,964 NZR funding 944,641 947,906 - 202,251 2,094,798 1,516,366 1,791,832 837,188 963,777 5,109,163
2019
Exchange revenue Exchange revenue Match income - 395,163 - - 395,163 Sponsorship revenue 30,000 973,815 - - 1,003,815 Management services provided - - 749,134 - 749,134 Rental income - - 463,327 - 463,327 Other 101,023 68,953 - 46,154 216,131 Non-exchange revenue Grant funding 1,201,983 - - - 1,201,983 NZR funding 984,257 1,045,327 - 100,000 2,129,584 2,317,264 2,483,258 1,212,461 146,154 6,159,137
Wellington Rugby Football Union (Incorporated) Annual Report 2020 37 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements – continued For the Year Ended 31 December 2020
3 Expenses
Accounting policy Expenses
Expenses are recognised when incurred.
Distributions / grants to clubs
Distributions [and/or grants] are made to clubs in line with the Group’s capital management objectives. When managing capital, management’s objective is to ensure WRFU continues as a going concern as well as maintaining optimal returns for members.
Operating leases
The Group leases certain buildings, equipment and vehicles. An operating lease is a lease that does not transfer substantially all the risks and rewards incidental to ownership of an asset to the lessee. Lease payments under an operating lease are recognised as an expense on a straight-line basis over the lease term. Lease incentives received are recognised in the surplus or deficit as a reduction of rental expense over the lease term.
Wellington Rugby Football Union (Incorporated) Annual Report 2020 38 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements – continued For the Year Ended 31 December 2020
Note Community High Event/Club Governance Total rugby performance Management and $ rugby $ administration $ $ $ 2020
Salaries 382,961 1,544,725 - 505,524 2,433,210 Defined contribution scheme contributions 12,214 34,336 - 11,266 57,816 Commercial and event expenses - 187,064 - - 187,064 Operating lease expense 4 27,528 52,982 - 263,134 343,644 Depreciation and amortisation expense 7/8 - - - 166,930 166,930 Advertising / sponsorship (3,394) 235,944 - - 232,551 Provincial teams 18,926 185,660 - - 204,585 Game development / club rugby 526,006 - - - 526,006 Other expenses 46,435 76,374 - 675,896 798,705 1,010,675 2,317,086 - 1,622,750 4,950,511
2019
Salaries 510,043 1,798,510 - 526,138 2,834,693 Defined contribution scheme contributions 13,514 30,379 - 13,941 57,835 Commercial and event expenses - 249,599 - - 249,599 Operating lease expense 4 39,662 14,751 - 269,922 324,335 Depreciation and amortisation expense 7/8 - - - 182,137 182,137 Advertising / sponsorship 7,896 278,885 - - 286,781 Provincial teams 189,252 300,690 - - 489,942 Game development / club rugby 970,011 - - - 970,011 Other expenses 67,775 228,610 74,201 609,903 980,489 1,798,154 2,901,425 74,201 1,602,041 6,375,821
Wellington Rugby Football Union (Incorporated) Annual Report 2020 39 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements – continued For the Year Ended 31 December 2020
4 Operating lease as lessee The future aggregate minimum lease payments to be paid under non-cancellable operating leases are as follows:
2020 2019 $ $
Not later than one year 296,343 320,282 Later than one year and not later than five years 66,009 282,995 Later than five years - -
Total non-cancellable operating leases 362,353 603,277
5 Fees paid to auditors
2020 2019 $ $
Fee for audit of year-end financial statements 22,500 24,000
22,500 24,000
Wellington Rugby Football Union (Incorporated) Annual Report 2020 40 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements – continued For the Year Ended 31 December 2020
6 Trade receivables and prepayments Accounting policy Receivables are recorded at the amount due, less any provision for uncollectability. A receivable is considered uncollectable when there is evidence the amount due will not be fully collected. The amount that is uncollectable is the difference between the amount due and the present value of the amount expected to be collected.
2020 2019 $ $
Receivables and prepayments relating to exchange transactions Trade receivables 774,264 343,477 Prepayments 56,527 138,466 Accrued Income 1,520 82,682 Receivables and prepayments relating to non-exchange transactions - - Grants receivable - - NZR funding receivable - - Total receivables and prepayments 832,311 564,624 Less: provision for uncollectability - - 832,311 564,624
Less: provision for uncollectability - -
832,311 564,624
2020 2019 $ $
Movements in the provision for uncollectability of receivables are as follows: Balance at 1 January - 14,375 Additional provisions made during the year Receivables written off during the year - (14,375)
Balance at 31 December - -
Wellington Rugby Football Union (Incorporated) Annual Report 2020 41 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements – continued For the Year Ended 31 December 2020
7 Property, plant and equipment Accounting policy All items of plant, property and equipment are recorded at cost less aggregate depreciation and impairment losses.
Additions
The cost of an item of property, plant, and equipment is recognised as an asset only when it is probable that future economic benefits or service potential associated with the item will flow to the Group and the cost of the item can be measured reliably. Work in progress is recognised at cost less impairment and is not depreciated.
In most instances, an item of property, plant, and equipment is initially recognised at its cost. Where an asset is acquired through a non-exchange transaction, it is recognised at its fair value as at the date of acquisition.
Costs incurred subsequent to initial acquisition are capitalised only when it is probable that future economic benefits or service potential associated with the item will flow to the Group and the cost of the item can be measured reliably.
The costs of day-to-day servicing of property, plant, and equipment are expensed in the surplus or deficit as they are incurred.
Disposals
Gains and losses on disposals are determined by comparing the proceeds with the carrying amount of the asset. Gains and losses on disposals are reported net in the surplus or deficit.
Depreciation
Plant, Property and Equipment. All items of plant, property and equipment are recorded at cost less aggregate depreciation and impairment losses. Depreciation is provided on all items of plant, property and equipment. Depreciation rates used to allocate an item’s cost less estimated residual value over their estimated useful lives are:
Buildings 5.26-16% SL Training equipment 10-40% DV Stadium assets (fit out) 10-40% DV Office furniture and equipment 9.5-40% DV Computer hardware 40% DV Miscellaneous 10-67% DV Vehicles 16% DV
Impairment
Assets are considered cash-generating where their primary objective is to generate a commercial return. The Group does not hold any cash-generating property, plant and equipment assets.
Wellington Rugby Football Union (Incorporated) Annual Report 2020 42 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements – continued For the Year Ended 31 December 2020
Non cash-generating assets
Property, plant, and equipment held at cost that have a finite useful life are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. An impairment loss is recognised for the amount by which the asset’s carrying amount exceeds its recoverable service amount. The recoverable service amount is the higher of an asset’s fair value less costs to sell, and value in use.
Value in use is the present value of an asset’s remaining service potential. It is determined using an approach based on either a depreciated replacement cost approach, a restoration cost approach, or a service units approach. The most appropriate approach used to measure value in use depends on the nature of the impairment and availability of information.
If an asset’s carrying amount exceeds its recoverable service amount, the asset is regarded as impaired and the carrying amount is written down to the recoverable amount. The total impairment loss is recognised in surplus or deficit. The reversal of an impairment loss is recognised in surplus or deficit.
Critical judgements in applying accounting policies At each balance date, the useful lives and residual values of property, plant, and equipment are reviewed. Assessing the appropriateness of useful life and residual value estimates of property, plant, and equipment requires a number of factors to be considered such as the physical condition of the asset, expected period of use of the asset by the Group, and expected disposal proceeds from the future sale of the asset.
An incorrect estimate of the useful life or residual value will affect the depreciation expense recognised in the surplus or deficit, and carrying amount of the asset in the statement of financial position. The Group minimises the risk of this estimation uncertainty by:
– physical inspection of assets; – asset replacement programs; – review of second-hand market prices for similar assets; and – analysis of prior asset sales.
Wellington Rugby Football Union (Incorporated) Annual Report 2020 43 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements – continued For the Year Ended 31 December 2020
Buildings Training Stadium Office Computer Office fit Vehicles Total equipment assets furniture and hardware out/misc (fit out) equipment
Cost Balance at 1 January 2019 3,659,581 461,182 219,204 11,356 323,950 305,874 17,819 4,998,966 Additions 45,759 27,595 984 - 23,186 71,782 21,770 191,076 Disposals ------Balance at 31 December 2019 3,705,340 488,777 220,188 11,356 347,136 377,655 39,589 5,190,042 Additions - - - - - 21,410 - 21,410 Disposals ------(10,435) (10,435) Balance at 31 December 2020 3,705,340 488,777 220,188 11,356 347,136 399,065 29,154 5,201,016
Accumulated depreciation and impairment losses Balance at 1 January 2019 2,457,378 390,511 182,983 5,628 287,949 202,040 10,345 3,536,834 Depreciation expense 73,037 16,726 3,887 1,146 19,451 33,402 5,386 153,036 Disposals ------Balance at 31 December 2019 2,530,415 407,236 186,870 6,774 307,400 235,442 15,731 3,689,870 Depreciation expense 68,899 14,044 3,542 917 11,284 47,374 3,942 150,000 Disposals ------(5,448) (5,448) Balance at 31 December 2020 2,599,314 421,280 190,412 7,691 318,684 282,817 14,225 3,834,422 Carrying amount Balance at 1 January 2019 1,202,203 70,671 36,221 5,728 36,001 103,833 7,474 1,462,132 Balance at 31 December 2019 1,174,925 81,541 33,318 4,583 39,736 142,213 23,858 1,500,173 Balance at 31 December 2020 1,106,026 67,497 29,776 3,666 28,453 116,249 14,929 1,366,595
8 Intangibles Accounting policy Intangible assets comprise computer software and website development costs, which are stated at cost less accumulated amortisation and impairment losses. Amortisation is calculated on a diminishing value basis at a rate of 40%. Amortisation begins when the asset is available for use and ceases at the date that the asset is derecognised. The amortisation charge for each financial year is expensed in the surplus or deficit.
Wellington Rugby Football Union (Incorporated) Annual Report 2020 44 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements – continued For the Year Ended 31 December 2020
Impairment of intangible assets
Refer to the policy for impairment of property, plant, and equipment in note 7. The same approach applies to the impairment of intangible assets.
Computer Software & Website Development Total $ $
Cost Balance at 1 January 2019 279,907 279,907 Additions - - Disposals - - 2019 279,907 279,907 Additions - - Disposals - - Balance at 31 December 2020 279,907 279,907
Accumulated amortisation and impairment losses Balance at 1 January 2019 209,352 209,352 Amortisation expense 28,597 28,597 Impairment - - Disposals - - Balance at 31 December 2019 237,949 237,949 Amortisation expense 16,933 16,933 Impairment - - Disposals - - Balance at 31 December 2020 254,882 254,882
Carrying amount Balance at 1 January 2019 70,555 70,555 Balance at 31 December 2019 41,958 41,958
Balance at 31 December 2020 25,025 25,025
Wellington Rugby Football Union (Incorporated) Annual Report 2020 45 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements – continued For the Year Ended 31 December 2020
9 Financial instruments Accounting policy Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents includes cash on hand, deposits held on call with banks, and other short term, highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less.
Short term investments
Short term investments comprise bank term deposits with original maturities of greater than three months, and are measured at amortised cost.
The carrying amounts of financial assets and liabilities in each of the financial instrument categories are as follows:
2020 2019 $ $
Financial assets measured at amortised cost Cash and cash equivalents 478,300 472,892 Trade receivables 774,265 343,477
1,252,565 816,369 Financial liabilities measured at amortised cost Trade creditors 386,229 360,661 Liability owing to associates - 66,667
386,229 427,327
Wellington Rugby Football Union (Incorporated) Annual Report 2020 46 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements – continued For the Year Ended 31 December 2020
10 Trade creditors and accruals Accounting policy Trade creditors and accruals
Payables are recorded at the amount payable
2020 2019 $ $
Trade creditors 386,228 360,661 GST payable (38,938) 109,641 Accrued expenses 202,219 160,376
549,509 630,678
11 Revenue received in advance Accounting policy Season ticket revenue received in advance
Season tickets purchased for future seasons are recognised as income in advance for the proportion of matches that the tickets are still valid for after balance date. Tickets that are valid for longer than the next season are apportioned and recognised as non-current for the portion pertaining to games not held within the 12 month period after balance date.
Refer to note 2 for the policy on grant funding revenue which leads to the recognition of grants received in advance.
2020 2019 $ $
Current portion Grants received in advance 20,000 120,000 Income in Advance - Other 20,000 48,494 Season ticket revenue received in advance - 66,275
40,000 234,769
40,000 234,769
Wellington Rugby Football Union (Incorporated) Annual Report 2020 47 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements – continued For the Year Ended 31 December 2020
12 Employee entitlements Accounting policy Employee benefits that are due to be settled within 12 months after the end of the year in which the employee provides the related service are measured based on accrued entitlements at current rates of pay. These include salaries and wages accrued up to balance date, annual leave earned but not yet taken at balance date, and sick leave. A liability and an expense are recognised for bonuses where there is a contractual obligation or where there is past practice that has created a constructive obligation and a reliable estimate of the obligation can be made.
2020 2019 $ $
A breakdown of employee entitlements is as follows: Annual leave 104,212 71,708
104,212 71,708
13 Investments in controlled entities Accounting policy Basis of consolidation
The consolidated financial statements include the parent entity WRFU and its subsidiary Wellington Rugby Limited. Controlled entities are entities in which WRFU has the capacity to determine the financing and operating policies and from which it has an entitlement to significant ownership benefits. The effects of all significant inter-entity transactions between entities that have been consolidated are eliminated on consolidation.
2020 2019 Balance % Owned % Owned Date
Wellington Rugby Limited 100 100 31-Dec Wellington Rugby Marketing Limited 100 100 31-Oct Grassroots Rugby Construction Limited 100 100 31-Dec
WRFU owns 100% of Wellington Rugby Limited, the trustee company of Wellington Rugby Trust, which was formed to administer the professional activities within Wellington Rugby. WRFU is a beneficiary of the Trust.
WRFU owns 100% of Grassroots Rugby Construction Limited, a Limited Liability Company which was formed to be the the trustee of Grassroots Rugby Trust.
WRFU controls Grassroots Rugby Trust through its position as settlor, beneficiary and the 100% ownership of Grassroots Rugby Limited (Trustee). The trust built a residental property for the purpose of resale with funds to be used in the benefit of WRFU and its charity partner. All transactions relating to this entity had concluded as at 31 December 2019.
Wellington Rugby Football Union (Incorporated) Annual Report 2020 48 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements – continued For the Year Ended 31 December 2020
14 Investments in associates Accounting policy The Group’s investment in its associates are accounted for using the equity method. The associates are entities over which the Group has significant influence and that is neither a subsidiary nor a joint venture.
Under the equity method, investments in associates are carried in the consolidated statement of financial position at cost plus post-acquisition changes in the Group’s share of net assets of the associates. After application of the equity method, the Group determines whether it is necessary to recognise any impairment loss with respect to the Group’s net investment in its associates.
The Group’s share of its associate’s post-acquisition surplus or deficit is recognised in the consolidated statement of comprehensive revenue and expense, and its share of post-acquisition movements in reserves is recognised in reserves. The cumulative post-acquisition movements are adjusted against the carrying amount of the investment. Distributions receivable from associates are recognised in the parent entity’s surplus or deficit, while in the consolidated financial statements they reduce the carrying amount of the investment.
When the Group’s share of losses in an associate equals or exceeds its interest in the associate, including any unsecured long-term receivables and loans, the Group does not recognise further losses, unless it has incurred obligations or made payments on behalf of the associate.
The associates accounting policies conform to those used by the Group for like transactions and events in similar circumstances.
Movements in the carrying amount of the Group’s investment in associates
2020 2019 $ $
At 1 January 1,846,649 1,839,226 Share of total recognised revenue and expense 296,677 157,423 Distributions Received (250,000) (150,000)
At 31 December 2020 1,893,326 1,846,649
The Group has a 50% interest in Hurricanes Investment LP, a limited liability partnership responsible for the management of the Hurricanes rugby club. Hurricanes Investment LP held an eight year franchise license, from 2013 - 2020 inclusive. Management have exercised critical judgement in transitioning recognition of the investment to a ‘Current Asset’ compared to a ‘Non Current Asset as shown in prior years’. This judgement is on the basis that the current franchise license matured in the 2020 year. A temporary license has been granted while a long term license is finalised
The equity accounted profit or loss from Hurricanes Investment LP is based on audited financial statements for the year ended 31 August 2020.
The Group’s proportion of voting power held in the associate is the same as its ownership interest.
Wellington Rugby Football Union (Incorporated) Annual Report 2020 49 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements – continued For the Year Ended 31 December 2020
15 Discontinued operations Accounting Policy The Group’s consolidated financial statements for the 2019 recognise the final result discontinued operations. Management have used critical judgement when recognising this revenue as a discontinued operation under PBE IFRS 5. This judgement has been considered under the basis of the project being a once-off and the entity not being expected to trade in future financial periods.
Summary of Discontinued Operations 2020 2019 $ $ At 1 January Revenue from discontinued operation 739,130 Expenditure from discontinued operation (588,545)
At 31 December - 150,585
16 Contingencies The Group has $0 contingent liabilities or assets (2019: $0)
17 Related parties Related party disclosures have not been made for transactions with related parties that are: – within a normal supplier or client/recipient relationship; and – on terms and conditions no more or less favourable than those that it is reasonable to expect the Group would have adopted in dealing with the party at arm’s length in the same circumstances. The following are related parties due to being members of the Group and are controlled by the Group:
– Wellington Rugby Trust; and – Wellington Rugby Investment Limited Partnership.
The following are related parties due to their close affiliation with the Group, either as members of the Group or due to their significant influence over the Group:
– New Zealand Rugby Union.
Wellington Rugby Football Union (Incorporated) Annual Report 2020 50 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements – continued For the Year Ended 31 December 2020
Related Party Nature of transaction / balance 2020 2019 $ $
Hurricanes Investment Limited Partnership Management fee received 417,083 484,333 Rental payments 420,105 463,327 Payable to WRL 135,047 59,623 Payable to WRFU 124,448 7,398
New Zealand Rugby (NZR) Management fee received (including KPI Payments) 291,723 419,966 Grants received from NZR 1,688,764 1,861,257 Other received from NZR 144,378 128,000 Receivable from WRL - 11,556 Payable to WRL 21,014 76,516 Receivable from WRFU - 7,333 Payable to WRFU 1,296 6,500
Key Management Personnel remuneration
Related Party Number of FTEs 2020 2019 $ $
Board 8 - - Senior Management 2 (2019: 3) 209,000 361,269
The Board are all voluntary members and are therefore not remunerated for their services.
Wellington Rugby Football Union (Incorporated) Annual Report 2020 51 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements – continued For the Year Ended 31 December 2020
18 Capital commitments At 31 December 2020 there were $0 capital expenditure commitments (2019: $0).
19 Subsequent events No subsequent events have occurred since balance date that would materially impact the financial statements as at 31 December 2020.
20 Income tax Accounting policy WRFU is exempt from income tax as a promoter of amateur sport, under section CW 46 of the Income Tax Act. Its subsidiary, Wellington Rugby Limited (WRL) is a taxable entity.
WRL is the corporate trustee for the Wellington Rugby Trust. Net surpluses from the Trust are not taxable provided they are distributed to beneficiaries with six months of the end of the financial year. The current tax expense in the statement of comprehensive income represents the estimated tax payable on non-deductible expenditure.
Management note the current year tax expense in WRL reflects a critical view at the time of preparation as highlighted above. Any adjustment to the tax expense within the current year reflects updated expectations in alignment to IRD information available.
Wellington Rugby Football Union (Incorporated) Annual Report 2020 52 Level 2, 191 Thorndon Quay, Pipitea, Wellington 6011 Tel: +64-4-389 0020, Fax: +64-4-389 0889, www.wrfu.co.nz