2011 Vodafone Warriors//YOUR 2011 NRL OFFICIAL SEASON GUIDE

www.warriors.co.nz

It’s all here! Mt Smart Function Centre specialises in all events. Refer to www.mtsmartstadium.com for full details or call 09-366 2000 ext 8784.

dinners, school balls, conferences and exhibitions...

where shall we go for our next occasion?

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MANAGING EDITOROliver Lee

EDITORRichard Becht

PHOTOGRAPHYPhotosport

DESIGN/LAYOUTMervyn Hurley hurley new zealand limited Telephone 021 273 9991

PRINTERPMP Print

PUBLISHERJ Oliver Lee & Associates LtdPO Box 331-667, Takapuna,Auckland, New Zealand

Phone 0-9-486 6966

email: oliverlee@xtra.co.nz

COPYRIGHTReproduction in whole or part by any means is prohibited.

DISCLAIMERThe opinions expressed in this magazine do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. Although material is checked for accuracy, no liability is assumed by the publisher for any loss due to use of material in this magazine.

Contents // 4 Battle of Eden

11 History on the Coast

15 Dialled into iPhones

16 What Price, Steve?

17 Beating new drum

19 New-look champions

20 Home is… SKYCITY

22 Canterbury Tales

24 Your team, your draw

26 Arrivals and departures

28 The players – NRL

34 The trials – NRL

36 The players – NYC

43 The trials – NYC

44 Full 2011 NRL draw

46 Growing the game

The same isn’t true in 2011.

For one, the Vodafone Warriors thankfully emerged from their four-game

trials schedule with all front-line contenders in seemingly sound shape

for the club’s eagerly-awaited season-opening ‘Battle of Eden’ against

Parramatta at Eden Park on Saturday, March 12.

Having a fi t squad to pick from is one thing, though; having quality

contenders in numbers in all positions is quite another.

Now Cleary knows he has both as he looks to name

his fi rst side of the year at the Vodafone Warriors’

season launching breakfast at SKYCITY on

Tuesday (March 8).

No one, least of all Cleary, is saying a fi t squad

and quality playing depth guarantees success

in any NRL season – but it’s certainly a handy

starting point.

Indeed Cleary made a telling comment after the

Vodafone Warriors had lost their fi nal trial 12-14

to Manly on February 26, the club’s fi rst defeat

in a preseason match in three years. As he eyed

his sixth season in charge, he said he had never

known so much competition for spots, a position

he sees as critical to the club’s wellbeing for the

rigours of the season ahead.

Whether the ever-present cynics in rugby league

land are on the same page is moot. In the recent

past they have routinely bemoaned what they

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All braced for‘Battle of Eden’

INTENSE COMPETITION FOR SPOTS AS VODAFONE WARRIORS FACE MOUTH-WATERING START TO 2011 NRL SEASON

All NRL coaches go into every season with a similar wish list.

Surviving the trials with no injuries is always one of them. So is having a

squad with depth across all positions and, with it, serious competition for

playing spots.

Vodafone Warriors coach Ivan Cleary hasn’t regularly had the best fortune

on the injury front heading into a new campaign and he has invariably found

his resources a little thin in at least one or two positions.

// continued PAGE 8Bill Tupou, one of the contenders for a winger’s spot,

scores in the

Vodafone Warriors’ trial against Newcastle in Greymou

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200 NRL GAMES194 Micheal Luck

186 Shaun Berrigan

150 NRL GAMES127 Jerome Ropati

100 NRL GAMES98 Jacob Lillyman

88 Feleti Mateo

78 Krisnan Inu

50 NRL GAMES38 Lewis Brown

36 Aaron Heremaia

29 Kevin Locke

28 James Maloney

100 NRL TRIES78 Manu Vatuvei

50 NRL TRIES49 Lance Hohaia

47 Jerome Ropati

36 Krisnan Inu

Milestones in store

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have seen as a lack of options in some positions but already they have

been heard complaining about having too many options in certain

areas this season.

Cleary, though, would much rather have a squad rich in resources

than one that’s defi cient. Memories don’t need to be long to recall how

stretched the Vodafone Warriors were as one injury crisis followed

another last year.

Helping immeasurably to boost the squad with their ability to cover

various positions are the four big acquisitions in the Parramatta duo

of Feleti Mateo and Krisnan Inu, former Brisbane utility Shaun Berrigan

and tough forward Steve Rapira, back home after two years with North

Queensland. Players from the club’s 2010 NYC premiership-winning

Vodafone Junior Warriors have also strengthened the wider NRL squad,

among them Glen Fisiiahi who excelled in the trials. The point here is,

Cleary can now pick any position and know he can safely if not confi dently

name a number of players with claims to play there.

Whoever he initially puts his faith in, they’ll all have to be performing at

optimum to not only retain their places but to help the Vodafone Warriors

negotiate an exacting – and unquestionably exciting – fi rst fi ve weeks

of the season.

// continued from PAGE 4

The blockbuster

at Eden Park

on March 12 is

a unique way to

start as the club

seeks to attract

a huge crowd

to energise the

season. If a new-look Parramatta under Kiwi coach Stephen Kearney is a

stern fi rst test – and it will be – then there’s much more to follow with the

Benji Marshall-powered Wests Tigers away in the second round followed by

the fi rst game of the year at Mount Smart Stadium against Wayne Bennett’s

NRL premiers the St George Illawarra Dragons in week three.

In round four there’s an ‘away’ trip to Taupo to face the rejuvenated Cronulla

Sharks, bound to be an improved force with Kiwi Jeremy Smith among

their number, followed by beaten grand fi nalists the Sydney Roosters at

Mount Smart.

Who wouldn’t be excited? Bring on the 2011 NRL season – and bring on

the ‘Battle of Eden’.

Shaun Berrigan

Feleti Mateo

Steve Rapira

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Autograph time for Vodafone Ju

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Warriors second rower Matt Rob

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Lifting spiritson the West Coast

VODAFONE WARRIORS HUMBLED BY RECEPTION FROM LOCALS

Four days in February provided the Vodafone Warriors’ NRL staff and players

with an experience they’ll never forget. They travelled to the South Island’s

West Coast for a charity game against the Newcastle Knights, seeking to

raise funds and lift spirits in a community devastated by the Pike River

mining disaster which left 29 men dead. Throughout their time there, the

players and staff

immersed themselves

in the community and

were left humbled

by the welcome they

received. Photosport’s

Simon Watts was

there to capture

the historic visit.

// ONE COMMUNITY – WEST COAST continued from PAGE 11

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“I’ve signed up... Have you?”//

Join online at www.warriors.co.nz

Will you march with us as a Member?//

z Steve Price

Member No 3636//

$120*

$495*

Call 0800 839 839

Memberships from//

Family membership from//

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JOIN NRL.COM FOR FREE M

EMBER BENEFITS

OFFICIAL LICENSED PRODUCT

©ICON 6765 CCC

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Price rightfor new role

FORMER VODAFONE WARRIORS CAPTAIN SIGNS ON AS MEMBERSHIP AMBASSADORSteve Price might have fi nished his NRL playing days but he’s very much part of the Vodafone

Warriors mix in 2011 after being signed up as the club’s fi rst membership ambassador.

And just as he did carting the ball up so many times during his career as Vodafone Warrior

No 121, Price is throwing himself into his new challenge as Vodafone Warriors member No 3636.

With the new season fast approaching, Price’s presence has been more noticeable fronting a

campaign to sign up more Vodafone Warriors members.

He has been hitting the phones to talk to members and prospective new ones as well as

personally delivering membership packs. It all adds to the personal touch as the Vodafone

Warriors seek to enhance the value of the membership experience.

Price says he’s committed to ensuring Vodafone Warriors members enjoy their status among

a unique group of fans marching to a different beat.

He’ll be in attendance at all major members’ exclusive events, promotional activities and

functions. He’ll also attend away games to promote the new Road Warrior and Kiwi Proud

membership packages aimed at giving fans from outside Auckland – and in Australia – the

chance of being part of the club.

Helping Kiwis get ahead

At the top of their game for the last 40 years.

Stacey JonesKiwi Legend

Instant Finance has been providing Kiwis with personal loan services since 1971. We’re known for our friendly staff, excellent service and great community spirit. And now we’d like to help you. If you need a loan, give our team a call.

New initiatives are succeeding in growing the Vodafone Warriors’

membership base.

Becoming a club member provides an experience that is more than just

being a supporter. In 2011, the Vodafone Warriors have introduced new

packages and benefi ts to make it even easier to become a member and

provide more options.

New options include general admission seating packages, new pricing in

both the Northern Embankment and the South Stand and the creation of

a premium covered family membership.

The club has also strengthened the membership programme with a range

of new benefi ts and privileges which are exclusive to members.

With memberships starting from only $120 and family memberships

(two adults and three children) starting from $495, a Vodafone Warriors

membership also provides fantastic value while bringing members closer

than ever to the club.

These initiatives, combined with the launch of a new away membership

programme, have led to a solid lift in overall numbers as the Vodafone

Warriors count down to their NRL season-opening ‘Battle of Eden’ against

the Parramatta Eels at Eden Park next Saturday night (March 12).

It’s all part of the Vodafone Warriors’ membership drive based on the slogan:

‘Become a 2011 club member – march to the beat of a different drum’.

“Whether they live in New Zealand or Australia, we want every Vodafone

Warriors fan to feel like they’re part of this great club and have the chance

to be a valued member,” said Vodafone Warriors chief executive

Wayne Scurrah.

“We want to provide a total experience which separates members from

supporters by providing benefi ts and privileges only members can enjoy.”

Megan Jaffe Real Estate Ltd Licensed (REAA 2008)

“GO THE MIGHTY WARRIORS”

The last 12 months I have been involved in the real

estate industry with great success. I have listed and sold

a number of properties in different areas throughout

Central Auckland and the Eastern Suburbs. A high

percentage of my sales have come from my personal

database, which has enabled me to get great prices for

the people who have chosen me to sell their property.

Real estate, like rugby league, is a challenging game.

I’ve been able to use the resources of the Ray White

Group, linked with my personal determination, to

succeed in the real estate industry.

If you are thinking about selling or buying property

I would be more than happy to be able to assist you.

Logan SwannLicensee Salesperson REAA (2008)

Phone: 09 523 6507

Mobile: 021 220 5401

Email: logan.swann@raywhite.com

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Marching toa new beat

Package details //To be part of the excitement in 2011, book your Vodafone Warriors membership on www.warriors.co.nz, call 0800 839 839 or visit the club’s offi ces at Mount Smart Stadium.

VODAFONE WARRIORS TAILOR NEW MEMBERSHIP PROGRAMME

Official Sponsor//

YOUR CHANCETO WIN!

At TNT we’re great at sending business documents, parcels and freight around the world. And now we want to send YOU and FIVE MATES to the historic BATTLE OF EDEN!

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answer a few questions and you’re in the draw!

TNT Express. Proud sponsor of the Vodafone Warriors.

Terms and Conditions: Entries must be received by 5pm Tuesday 8 March 2011. Full terms and conditions available on www.tnt.co.nz/warriors

www.tnt.co.nz/warriors

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As the 2010 season was winding down Daryl John was just another fan

having a shot at designing a new strip for the Vodafone Junior Warriors to

wear in 2011.

Now some six months later the Te Aroha sign writer and avid Vodafone

Warriors supporter will be able to proudly watch his creation go on public

display every week of the NYC season as the Vodafone Junior Warriors

defend their honour as the club’s fi rst-ever grand fi nal winners.

John beat off everyone else to win a design-a-jersey competition jointly run

by sponsors Vodafone and Canterbury of New Zealand, resulting in him not

only claiming a trip to the NRL’s 2010 grand fi nal day – and watching the

Vodafone Junior Warriors win – but also providing the blueprint for the kit

the team will debut in their season-opening clash against the Parramatta

Eels at Eden Park on March 12.

The design is a big statement about the team’s origin, captured in the

green fern imagery which features on the lower half of the jersey. The

main colours of the kit have been reversed for the away strip.

If the jersey is brand new so, too, are many other aspects concerning

the team’s latest campaign. John Ackland remains as coach and some of

the leading players in the 2010 squad are still eligible to play in the NYC

including captain Ben Henry, winger Omar Slaimankhel, centre Sosaia Feki,

standoff Carlos Tuimavave, back rowers Sam Lousi and Sebastine Ikahihifo

plus hooker Henry Chan-Ting. Of that group Tuimavave, Lousi and Ikahihifo

9

New look for2010 champions

VODAFONE JUNIOR WARRIORS ALSO START TITLE DEFENCE WITH NEW SPONSORS

all played for the Junior Kiwis against the Junior Kangaroos while injury

ruled Henry out of contention.

But the loss of players who turned 20 last year necessarily means a new

breed will emerge in 2011 as coach John Ackland seeks to build on the

club’s outstanding efforts in the NYC competition’s fi rst three years in

existence. In 2008 the Vodafone Junior Warriors were seconds away from

reaching the grand fi nal, they made the play-offs again in 2009 and fi nished

second in the minor premiership last year before overpowering South

Sydney in the grand fi nal to win the Toyota Cup. Their splendid efforts in the

regular season – together with those of the NRL squad – had earlier helped

the club to secure the Club Championship Trophy for the fi rst time.

Also new in 2011 are a number of the team’s main sponsors. Vodafone is

very much to the forefront as usual and Greenstuf is again on the shorts

but elsewhere the club has welcomed four newcomers to its NYC sponsors.

Major courier operator TNT Express is on board as the new sleeve sponsor

while the team’s new front of the shorts sponsor is dtr, which offers rental,

hire purchase and business leasing options on a wide range of household

goods and appliances.

Irvines will have its branding on the back of the Vodafone Junior Warriors’

shorts and will also supply Irvines Pies on game days at Mount Smart

Stadium while DEWALT, renowned for its range of power tools, has signed

as the back of the jersey sponsor.

Home of theVodafone Warriors

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SKYCITY is the place to be for all Vodafone Warriors members and fans

in 2011. After signing a major sponsorship deal with the club last year,

SKYCITY has become the ‘Home of the Vodafone Warriors’ for the next

three years, rolling out the welcome mat for all members and fans to

gather for after-match functions.

Players, staff and supporters were given a preview of the future after

last season’s fi nal home game against Brisbane, a huge gathering and

memorable night at SKYCITY following a big win at Mount Smart Stadium.

The name of Auckland’s iconic entertainment centre now appears on the

back of the Vodafone Warriors’ jersey, the only newcomer on the NRL kit

with principal sponsor Vodafone on the front and across the shoulders

as usual, Canterbury of New Zealand’s famous CCC logo on the front,

Lion Red on the sleeves, HiFX on the front of the shorts and Suzuki and

Greenstuf on the back (Greenstuf is an insulation product manufactured

by team sponsor Autex).

Vodafone Warriors chief executive Wayne Scurrah said the club was elated

to have SKYCITY among its family of sponsors along with new backers of

the Vodafone Junior Warriors (TNT on the sleeves, DEWALT on the back

of the jersey, dtr on the front of the shorts and Irvines and Greenstuf on

the back of the shorts).

“All our sponsors give us tremendous support and we’re really grateful for

the faith they have in the Vodafone Warriors,” he said.

He confi rmed a range of the club’s big events will be held at SKYCITY from

now on. The Vodafone Warriors’ annual awards dinner and season launches

have been fi xtures there in recent years; indeed the 2011 season launch is

SKYCITY GOES TO ANOTHER LEVEL FOR VODAFONE WARRIORS MEMBERS AND FANS

Feleti Mateo (left), Lance Hohaia, Simon Mannering, Manu Vatuvei and Krisnan Inu pose with one of the Vodafone Warriors’ new fleet of Suzuki Grand Vitaras.

again set down for SKYCITY next Tuesday (March 8), this time in the shape

of a breakfast event at which Vodafone Warriors head coach Ivan Cleary

will reveal the team for the club’s fi rst NRL match of the year, the ‘Battle of

Eden’ against Parramatta at Eden Park next Saturday night (March 12).

After the historic contest, the players and staff will head back to SKYCITY

to join Vodafone Warriors members and supporters for the fi rst after-match

function of the year.

It was at SKYCITY late last year that the Vodafone Warriors were involved

in one of the most rewarding One Community events in the club’s history –

the Kidz First Christmas Party, hosted by SKYCITY, a venture that brought

the Vodafone Warriors together with their new sponsor and also one of their

major charity partners Kidz First Children’s Hospital. The players joined

in the fun of the day with 200 Kidz First day-care children and caregivers

along with Auckland Mayor Len Brown, champion shot putter Valerie

Adams, boxer Shane Cameron, newsreader Wendy Petrie and players from

the Black Ferns, Blues and Counties Manukau rugby union teams.

While SKYCITY is the major new sponsor now associated with the

Vodafone Warriors’ NRL side, Powerade has been signed as the club’s

new sports hydration supplier and NRG Strength Bands has also come

on board supplying balance bands to all football staff and players.

BEER OF MEN

LNZ0

101

Official sponsor of the Warriors

LNZ0101 Warriors.indd 1 24/02/11 3:23 PMProcess CyanProcess MagentaProcess YellowProcess Black

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Vodafone Warriors fans don’t want for choice when it comes to dressing up

to support their team.

And once again Canterbury of New Zealand has stepped up with a range of

team wear and street wear which ranks with the best and the most popular

in the NRL.

When Canterbury fi rst became the club’s apparel supplier for the 2009 season

it raised the bar with exceptional sales of its fi rst Vodafone Warriors jersey,

the black and white design now in circulation for the third season as the NRL

side’s No 1 strip. That year the jersey was the hottest seller on the market.

Since then Canterbury has created heritage strips and one-off designs

which have also sold strongly and it has created a stunning special

edition number for the Vodafone Warriors to wear in their season-opening

‘Battle of Eden’ against the Parramatta Eels at Eden Park on March 12.

To mark the historic occasion, the Vodafone Warriors will be kitted out

in a predominantly black ensemble broken up by splashes of white to

create a powerful visual impression. All the NRL kit sponsors – Vodafone,

Canterbury, Lion Red, SKYCITY, HiFX, Suzuki and Greenstuf – have

agreed to allow their logos to appear in white rather than their usual colours.

The new kit was offi cially launched in February amid a blaze of publicity

via numerous media channels including the breakfast shows on most of the

commercial radio stations. Vodafone Warriors vice-captain Micheal Luck

dropped in on hosts on The Radio Network’s stations to present them with

gift packs containing their own personally-named special edition Eden Park

jersey and two tickets to the historic match. He stopped in to chat at Radio

Hauraki, Classic Hits, Flava, RadioSport and NewstalkZB, giving the jersey

and the ‘Battle of Eden’ ample exposure.

Later that same morning the Vodafone Warriors trained at Eden Park for

the fi rst time in the club’s history, attracting a big attendance from all key

media organisations.

It might have been the week leading up to the Blues’ fi rst outing in the new

Super Rugby competition but the Vodafone Warriors were the fi rst football

team to have a run on Eden Park in Rugby World Cup year. With Vodafone

Warriors logos and ‘Battle of Eden’ imagery showing on the big screens

at the ground above them, captain Simon Mannering and 2011 signings

Shaun Berrigan, Feleti Mateo and Krisnan Inu later posed for a photo

shoot in the new kit.

When the Vodafone Warriors make their fi rst appearance of the year

at Mount Smart Stadium, they could be back in their regular home kit

against 2010 premiers the St George Illawarra Dragons on Sunday,

March 27 but for their next home game against the Sydney Roosters

on Saturday, April 9 they’ll change again. It’s the annual Heritage

Round and, for that occasion, the Vodafone Warriors will be

decked out in a stylish strip full of national fl avour incorporating

the colours of the fl ag, the stars of the Southern

Cross and the Union Jack.

Canterbury has

also produced

a new range of

street wear for

2011 available

at its outlets and

also through the

Vodafone Warriors’

merchandise

supplier Playbill.

CANTERBURY UNVEILS VODAFONE WARRIORS RANGE FOR 2011

22

CANTERBURY UNVEILS VODAFONE WARRIORS RANGE FOR 2011

New kit for‘Battle of Eden’

See the full range //Go www.warriors.co.nz/merchandise to see the full range available from Playbill at Mount Smart Stadium.

VODAFONE WARRIORS MEMBERS ARE ENTITLED TO A 10 PER CENT DISCOUNT ON PURCHASES.

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DEWALT, a global leader in high-end industrial power tools, are proud to announce their sponsorship

of the Vodafone Warriors for 2011. DEWALT sees strong similarities between the GUARANTEED TOUGH

nature of its Power Tools and Accessories and the tough, no quarter given style of Rugby League and

the Warriors Brand. This sponsorship is the spearhead of what is a renewed focus on DEWALT in NZ as it

gears up for a massive year of exciting new product launches and activity. DEWALT – Guaranteed Tough

and proud sponsors of the Vodafone Warriors.

For all the latest new product info,

promotions and news visit: www.DEWALT.co.nz

NZ Warriors ad_275x205.indd 1 23/02/11 12:01 PM

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WA

Auckland 1332AM Christchurch 1017AM Wellington 1503AM l Ashburton 702AM Blenheim 98.5FM Dunedin 693AM Greymouth 89.9FM Hamilton 792AM Invercargill 558AM Kapiti 1377AM Masterton 91.9FM Napier 1125AM Nelson 549AM New Plymouth 774AM Palmerston North 1089AM Rotorua 1350AM Taupo 90.4FM Tauranga 1521AM Timaru 1494AM Upper Hutt 89.3FM Whanganui 1062AM Whangarei 729AM

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Arrived: Dane Carlaw (Les Catalans), Ben Hannant (Bulldogs). Left: Israel Folau (AFL), Ashton Sims (Cowboys), Tariq Sims (Cowboys), Antonio Winterstein (Cowboys)

Arrived: Greg Eastwood (Leeds), Trent Hodkinson (Sea Eagles), Kris Keating (Eels), Michael Lett (Dragons), Grant Millington (Sharks), Frank Pritchard (Panthers), Aiden Tolman (Storm), Matthew Wright (Eels). Left: Yileen Gordon (Panthers), Blake Green (Hull Kingston Rovers), Ben Hannant (Broncos), Brett Kimmorley (retired), Luke Patten (Salford), Tim Winitana (Panthers).

Arrived: Gavin Cooper (Panthers), Dallas Johnson

(Les Catalans), Ben Jones (Roosters), Ashton Sims

(Broncos), Tariq Sims (Broncos), Brent Tate (Vodafone

Warriors), Ricky Thorby (Dragons), Antonio Winterstein

(Broncos). Left: Willie Mason (Hull Kingston Rovers),

Luke O’Donnell (Huddersfi eld), Steve Rapira (Vodafone

Warriors), Arana Taumata (Panthers), Anthony Watts

(Roosters), Carl Webb (Eels), John Williams (Sharks),

Ty Williams (retired).

Arrived: Adam Cuthbertson (Sharks). Left: Neville Costigan (Knights), Beau Henry (Knights), Michael Lett (Bulldogs), Junior Paulo (Panthers), Luke Priddis (retired), Jarrod Saffy (Super Rugby), Jeremy Smith (Sharks), Ricky Thorby (Cowboys).

Arrived: Jordan Atkins (Titans), Chris Hicks (Warrington), Casey McGuire (Les Catalans), Reni Maitua (suspension), Manase Manuokafoa (Cowboys), Brad Murray (Roosters), Chris Walker (Les Catalans), Carl Webb (Cowboys), Paul Whatuira (Huddersfi eld). Left: Nathan Cayless (retired), Krisnan Inu (Vodafone Warriors), Kris Keating (Bulldogs), Feleti Mateo (Vodafone Warriors), Timana Tahu (released), Jonathan Wright (Bulldogs).

Arrived: Neville Costigan (Dragons), Beau Henry (Dragons), Siuatonga Likiliki (Vodafone Warriors), Kyle O’Donnell (Sharks), Steve Southern (Cowboys). Left: Ben Cross (Leeds), Scott Dureau (Les Catalans), Steve Simpson (Knights), Cooper Vuna (Super Rugby).

Arrived: Yileen Gordon (Rabbitohs), Junior Paulo (Dragons), Nafe Seluini (Vodafone Warriors), Arana Taumata (Cowboys), Tim Winitana (Bulldogs). Left: Maurice Blair (Storm), Gavin Cooper (Cowboys), Shane Elford (retired), Wade Graham (Sharks), Frank Pritchard (Bulldogs).

Arrived: George Burgess (Bradford), Greg Inglis (Storm). Left: Colin Best (Sharks), Luke Capewell (Titans), Beau Champion (Storm), Jaiman Lowe (Storm).

Arrived: Blake Ferguson (Sharks), Mark Ioane (Vodafone Warriors), Matt Orford (Bradford), Brett White (Storm). Left: Justin Carney (Roosters), Marc Herbert (Bradford), Brett Kelly (Avignon), Scott Logan (Collegians), Adam Mogg (retired), Joel Monaghan (resigned), Troy Thompson (Storm).

Arrived: Justin Carney (Raiders), Mark Riddell (Wigan),

Lama Tasi (Sea Eagles), Anthony Watts (Cowboys).

Left: James Aubusson (released), Ben Jones (Cowboys),

Nick Kouparitsas (Harlequins), Brad Murray (Eels), Lopini

Paea (Les Catalans).

Arrived: Nil. Left: Chris Bailey (Harlequins), Ben Farrar (Les Catalans), Trent Hodkinson (Bulldogs), Josh Perry (St Helens), Lama Tasi (Roosters).

Arrived: Colin Best (Rabbitohs), Wade Graham (Panthers), Jeremy Smith (Dragons), Ryan Tongia (Titans), John Williams (Cowboys). Left: Trent Barrett (retired), Luke Covell (retired), Adam Cuthbertson (Dragons), Blake Ferguson (Raiders), Grant Millington (Bulldogs), Kyle O’Donnell (Knights), Reece Williams (retired).

Arrived: Maurice Blair (Panthers), Beau Champion

(Rabbitohs), Jaiman Lowe (Rabbitohs), Elijah Niko

(Vodafone Warriors), Troy Thompson (Raiders),

Adam Woolnough (year off).

Left: Brett Finch (Wigan), Ryan Hoffman (Wigan),

Greg Inglis (Rabbitohs), Jeff Lima (Wigan), Aiden Tolman

(Bulldogs), Brett White (Raiders).

Arrived: Luke Capewell (Rabbitohs). Left: Jordan Atkins (Eels), Mat Rogers (retired), Ryan Tongia (Sharks), Aaron Cannings (released).

Arrived: Shaun Berrigan (Hull FC), Pita Godinet (Auckland Vulcans), Saulala Houma (Mount Albert Lions), Krisnan Inu (Eels), Feleti Mateo (Eels), Steve Rapira (Cowboys). Left: Patrick Ah Van (Bradford), Ian Henderson (Les Catalans), Mark Ioane (Raiders), Siuatonga Likiliki (Knights), Elijah Niko (Storm), Steve Price (retired), Jesse Royal (retired), Nafe Seluini (Panthers), Brent Tate (Cowboys).

Arrived: Nil. Left: Daniel Fitzhenry (Southcity), Tame Tupou (Redcliffe).

Major 2011 signings

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E 2828 Ivan Cleary

COACH Born: March 1, 1971 Appointed: 2006Playing Record: 15 fi rst grade games for Manly (92-93); 37 for Norths (94-95), 81 for Roosters (96-99), 53 for Warriors (00-02)Premiership Coaching Record: Games 126 Wins 61 Losses 62 Draws 3Win Percentage: 48.41%Premierships: Nil. Grand Finals: Nil. Finals Series: 3 (2007, 2008, 2010). Achievements: Won NSW Premier League grand fi nal with Roosters (2004); guided Warriors to NRL fi nals three of last four seasons.

NRL Player Profi lesVodafone Warriors

Simon Mannering CAPTAINDate of Birth: August 28, 1986Birthplace: Napier, NZJunior Club: Wellington OrcasPosition: Second RowHeight: 190cm Weight: 103kg Previous Clubs: NilRep Honours: 24 Tests for Kiwis 2006-10, Junior Kiwis 2004NRL Games: 118 (2005-10), 124 points (31 tries)Achievements: Appointed Vodafone Warriors captain in late 2009, youngest in club’s history; 92 consecutive NRL appearances between 2006 and 2009; in Kiwi teams that beat Australia in 2008 World Cup and 2010 Four Nations fi nals; 2008 Vodafone Warriors player of the year.

Shaun BerriganDate of Birth: November 4, 1978Birthplace: Brisbane, QldJunior Club: Wests-Mitchelton JuniorsPosition: Hooker/Centre/Halfback/StandoffHeight: 178cm Weight: 87kg Previous Clubs: Brisbane Broncos, Hull FCRep Honours: 15 matches for Qld 02-07, 14 Tests for Australia 04-07NRL Games: 186 (1999-07), 308 points (77 tries)

Glen FisiiahiDate of Birth: December 2, 1990Birthplace: Auckland, NZJunior Club: Ellerslie EaglesPosition: FullbackHeight: 181cm Weight: 85kg Previous Clubs: NilRep Honours: Junior Kiwis 2010 NRL Games: Yet to make debut

Pita GodinetDate of Birth: December 21, 1987Birthplace: Christchurch, NZJunior Clubs: SydenhamPosition: HalfbackHeight: 177cm Weight: 85kg Previous Clubs: Auckland Vulcans, Woolston,

Richmond RoversRep Honours: One Test for Samoa 2010 NRL Games: Yet to make debut

Lewis BrownDate of Birth: October 3, 1986Birthplace: Christchurch, NZJunior Club: Riccarton KnightsPosition: Second Row/CentreHeight: 179cm Weight: 97kg Previous Clubs: Auckland Vulcans, Wests Tigers,

Balmain-Ryde, Sydney RoostersRep Honours: Kiwis 10, Kiwi train-on squad 09, NZ Maori 10NRL Games: 38 (2009-10), 40 points (10 tries)

James GavetDate of Birth: October 19, 1989Birthplace: Auckland, NZJunior Club: Richmond RoversPosition: PropHeight: 186cmWeight: 105kg Previous Clubs: Auckland Vulcans, Ponsonby (rugby union)Rep Honours: Nil NRL Games: Yet to make debut

Ben HenryDate of Birth: December 14, 1991Birthplace: Auckland, NZJunior Club: Glenora Bears, Bay Roskill VikingsPosition: Loose Forward/Second RowHeight: 185cmWeight: 96kgPrevious Clubs: NilRep Honours: NilNRL Games: Yet to make debut

Home Away Home AwayROUND 1MARCH 11-14

Roosters v Rabbitohs Broncos v Cowboys Warriors v Eels Storm v Sea Eagles Titans v Dragons Raiders v Sharks Panthers v Knights Bulldogs v Wests Tigers

ROUND 2MARCH 18-21

Eels v Panthers Raiders v Broncos Storm v Titans Wests Tigers v Warriors Cowboys v Knights Rabbitohs v Bulldogs Roosters v Sea Eagles Sharks v Dragons

ROUND 3MARCH 25-28

Eels v Rabbitohs Titans v Broncos Panthers v Sharks Cowboys v Storm Warriors v Dragons Bulldogs v Roosters Sea Eagles v Knights Wests Tigers v Raiders

ROUND 4APRIL 1-4

Daylight Saving ends

Rabbitohs v Sea Eagles Broncos v Panthers Raiders v Titans Eels v Cowboys Sharks v Warriors Knights v Dragons Roosters v Wests Tigers Storm v Bulldogs

ROUND 5APRIL 8-11HERITAGE ROUND

Cowboys v Titans Wests Tigers v Rabbitohs Warriors v Roosters Sharks v Sea Eagles Panthers v Raiders Storm v Eels Dragons v Bulldogs Broncos v Knights

ROUND 6APRIL 15-18

Cowboys v Raiders Eels v Bulldogs Knights v Sharks Panthers v Storm Rabbitohs v Dragons Roosters v Broncos Sea Eagles v Warriors Titans v Wests Tigers

ROUND 7APRIL 22-25EASTER / ANZAC DAY

Bulldogs v Rabbitohs Eels v Titans Raiders v Knights Roosters v Dragons Sea Eagles v Panthers Sharks v Cowboys Storm v Warriors Wests Tigers v Broncos

2011 NRL and NYC DrawNRL and NYC ROUND 8APRIL 29-MAY 1

Broncos v Bulldogs Cowboys v Sea Eagles Dragons v Eels Rabbitohs v Sharks Raiders v Wests Tigers Storm v Knights Titans v Roosters Warriors v Panthers

ROUND 9MAY 7-9

Bye: Bulldogs, Eels, Panthers, Rabbitohs,Sharks, Wests Tigers, Knights, Roosters

Broncos v Storm Dragons v Cowboys Sea Eagles v Raiders Warriors v Titans

ROUND 10MAY 13-16

Bulldogs v Dragons Cowboys v Eels Knights v Warriors Panthers v Broncos Rabbitohs v Wests Tigers Sharks v Roosters Storm v Raiders Titans v Sea Eagles

ROUND 11MAY 20-23Bye: Broncos, Cowboys, Sea Eagles, Storm, Titans, Dragons

Eels v Sharks Raiders v Bulldogs Roosters v Knights Warriors v Rabbitohs Wests Tigers v Panthers

ROUND 12 MAY 27-30

Bulldogs v Titans Cowboys v Roosters

Bye: Warriors, Raiders

Dragons v Wests Tigers Knights v Eels Panthers v Rabbitohs Sea Eagles v Broncos Storm v Sharks

ROUND 13JUNE 3-6QUEEN’S BIRTHDAY WEEKEND

Bulldogs v Sea Eagles Eels v Dragons Rabbitohs v Storm Raiders v Cowboys Roosters v Warriors Sharks v Broncos Titans v Panthers Wests Tigers v Knights

ROUND 14JUNE 10-13Bye: Bulldogs, Eels, Rabbitohs, Panthers, Sharks, Knights

Broncos v Raiders Dragons v Titans Sea Eagles v Cowboys Storm v Roosters Warriors v Wests Tigers

ROUND 15JUNE 17-20

Broncos v Dragons Bulldogs v Sharks

Bye: Roosters, Raiders

Cowboys v Warriors Knights v Panthers Rabbitohs v Titans Sea Eagles v Eels Wests Tigers v Storm

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Rugby league’srevival rolls on

In just a few years, New Zealand’s rugby league landscape has undergone

exceptional change from the elite level right through to the game’s grass

roots base.

The top-line results can’t help but be noticed with the Stephen Kearney-

coached Kiwis holding the World Cup and the Four Nations title while

Kiwi captain Benji Marshall is the current holder of the Golden Boot as

the best player on the planet. If that’s not enough, the Kiwi Ferns are also

the women’s world champions and seem likely to remain so for some time.

The bottom line reads well, too. From a parlous fi nancial position, the

New Zealand Rugby League has been transformed into a profi table

organisation in little time at all, posting a positive 2009 result and reporting

another healthy surplus on its 2010 operations.

Of special satisfaction for the NZRL has been the growth in playing

numbers, a development which can be attributed signifi cantly to the

targeted concept of reinvigorating grass roots rugby league through

NZRL REFLECTS ON SUCCESS AT ALL LEVELS OF THE GAME

Junior Elite Kiwi Roots Camps and Community Roots Camps. Superbly

organised by the Tony Kemp-led football department, the community camps

– now a regular sight in all zones around the country – have had an almost

instant effect of enthusing communities to become heavily involved in the code.

The inclusion of Vodafone Warriors players in camps in Greymouth, Rotorua

and Whangarei in February was an added benefi t for those communities.

While the net result of the game’s transformation can be tangibly measured

by the silverware the NZRL has in its trophy cabinet, a critical indicator is

a growth spurt of more than 50 per cent in playing numbers in 2010.

NZRL chief executive Jim Doyle says player data compiled by the NZRL

showed participation numbers had climbed by 52 per cent since 2009 with

the overall total of players swelling to more than 24,000.

“It’s really pleasing for us to see the fantastic growth in the game at grass

roots level,” he said.

“Our mission was to rebuild the game from the bottom, a job we started in

earnest with the launching of our strategic plan in September 2009.

“Tony Kemp and the football department have performed outstandingly as

they strive to create pathways for our players. There is tremendous talent in

this country as well as in Australia and we want those players to know there

is a pathway for them.”

To help bring about more growth and development across the board, the

NZRL again has a full programme of Junior Elite Kiwi Roots camps

and Community Roots Camps scheduled in 2010.

Legends of League Charity Match //Rugby league legends from both sides of the Tasman will band together at Mount Smart Stadium on Thursday night (March 10) to raise funds for the Christchurch earthquake appeal.

The Legends of League Charity Match was launched by the New Zealand Rugby League this week with ex-Kiwis Gary Freeman, Monty Betham, Nigel Vagana and Tawera Nikau the key organisers.

Originally set down for March 9 it was put forward a day after the police pointed out a clash with the Auckland Cup on March 9.

Gates open at 5.00pm, the entertainment starts at 5.30pm and the football action kicks off at 7.00pm.

Tickets are priced at $20 for adults while children (12 and under) are free. There’ll be bucket collections on the night.

NZ

an

Community Roots Camps //Community Roots Camps are scheduled for Thames, Auckland, Gisborne, Hastings, Hutt City, Manukau, Tauranga, Taupo, Greymouth, Nelson, Otago and Invercargill from now through to mid-April.

The 2010 Four Nations-winning Kiwis after their

stunning win against the Kangaroos

Go to www.nzrl.co.nz for full details

The Community Roots Camps are great fun for everyone. If you’re between 5 and 12 years old or a budding coach, then be sure to come along. The day is packed full with exciting games, drills and prizes. PLUS have your photo taken with the World Cup or the Four Nations Trophy and meet some of our NRL stars.

FREE

Check out when the next camp is happening near you, or for more information visit www.nzrl.co.nz

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Rugby League is coming to a town near you!NEW ZEALAND

RUGBY LEAGUE®

VENUE DATE

TSB Hub, Hawera Sat 26 Feb

Highbury Whanau Centre, Palmerston North Sun 27 Feb

Rugby League Park, Christchurch CANCELLED

Thames High School, Thames Sat 12 March

Cornwall Park, Auckland Sun 13 March

Te Wharau School, Gisborne Sat 19 March

HB Regional Sports Park, Hastings Sun 20 March

Pelorus Trust Sports House, Hutt City Sat 26 March

VENUE DATE

Alfriston College, Manukau Sun 27 March

Mitchell Park, Tauranga Sat 2 April

Taupo Sun 3 April

Wingham Park, Greymouth Sat 9 April

Auckland Point School, Nelson Sun 10 April

Otago Sat 16 April

Southland District Rugby League Clubrooms, Invercargill

Sun 17 April

Get your tickets now at ticketek.co.nz, 0800 TICKETEK or selected Mad Butcher stores* Season memberships at www.warriors.co.nz

ON STAGE AT 7.00PMSEE LIVE BEFORE THE GAME!

Saturday 12th March, 7.30pm kick off at Eden Park

Don’t miss the most epic season opener ever!Adult tickets from $20 // Children from $15