TUKAPA RUGBY CLUB WEEKLY NEWSLETTER - 30 April 2026
Well, here we are again, another big week at the Chook House and this one is shaping up to be one of the best of the season. A massive Saturday both on and off the field, with milestones, junior rugby kicking off, and a proper night lined up to finish it all off.
Luke “Drav” Dravitzki – 100 Games
This weekend we celebrate one of our own bringing up the big ton — Luke Dravitzki, better known as Drav.
Drav has been everything you want in a Tukapa player. Tough, loyal, no fuss, and always willing to do whatever the team needs. He’s given plenty of blood, sweat, and no doubt a few tears over the years in the blue and white, and has become a massive part of what this club is about.
What a lot of people might not know is that Drav came to Tukapa straight out of FDMC as an 18-year-old. Growing up in Inglewood with family ties there, you’d probably assume that’s where he’d land — but the pull of an apprenticeship with Lifestyle Building got him over the line. And as most of you know, if you want that opportunity, you’re playing for Tukapa.
I still remember his job interview — sitting at the clubrooms with his Mum and Dad alongside him. From there he got stuck into his building career for a few years before heading back to take over the family farm.
On the rugby field, Drav has never been about the spotlight. He’s just loved playing the game. Whether it’s Premiers, B’s, or leading the charge in the Under 85s back when he was a bit lighter, he’s always put his hand up.
A front rower who punches well above his weight every single week, and if needed he’ll happily slot into the loose forwards without a word of complaint. That’s the kind of player he is.
And let’s be honest — he doesn’t mind a Thursday night either. In fact, there’s a fair argument that those Thursday nights have helped keep him playing this long.
Drav, mate, 100 games is a hell of an achievement. Thanks for everything you’ve given to Tukapa. You’re a proper club man, a bloody legend, and we’re stoked to see you hit the milestone. Safe to say this is 100 not out, with a few more still left in the tank.
Brendan “Blowers” Bloeman – 50 Games as Premier Manager
Alongside Drav, we also celebrate another massive milestone — Brendan “Blowers” Bloeman bringing up his 50th game as Premier Manager.
Blowers is one of those guys that every successful team needs but not everyone sees. The bloke who does everything behind the scenes to make sure the players and coaches can just focus on rugby.
Water bottles filled and ready.
Gear sorted and transported.
Sideline running.
Making sure everyone has what they need on game day.
But it doesn’t stop there.
Blowers is a regular on Thursday nights helping in the bar, often one of the last to leave making sure the club is locked up properly. Come Sunday, while most are still recovering, he’s collecting dirty jerseys and gear and making sure it’s all cleaned and ready to go again by Thursday.
These aren’t glamorous jobs. There’s no spotlight. But they are absolutely critical to keeping the club running the way it should.
Blowers bleeds blue and white and is the definition of a Tukapa man.
Saturday Night – Celebrate Properly
After what should be a cracking day of rugby, make sure you stick around because Saturday night is shaping up to be an absolute belter as we celebrate Drav and Blowers the right way.
- Beer Pong Tournament
- King of the Mountain – Live Band
Good people, good music, a few cold ones, and a chance to celebrate two guys who have given so much to this club. Doesn’t get much better than that.
Rugby This Week
Junior Rugby – Season Kick-Off
This weekend marks the start of junior rugby for 2026, with most grades heading into a mini tournament at Stadium Taranaki.
It’s awesome to see 222 juniors pulling on the Tukapa jersey again this year. That’s a massive number and a real credit to all the coaches, managers, parents, and volunteers who make it happen.
These young players are the future of our club, and it’s great to see the blue and white so strong right through the grades.
Senior Rugby
- Toa – Bye
- Colts – vs New Plymouth Boys’ High 2nds, 11:30am at Tukapa
- Div 1 & Div 2 – vs Clifton, 1:00pm kick-offs
- Premiers – vs Clifton (Top of the Table Clash)
The Colts get things underway late morning, followed by what should be two tight battles for Div 1 and Div 2 against Clifton.
Then we roll into the main event — our Premiers taking on the current top-of-the-table Clifton side. This is a big one. The track is looking mint, conditions should suit, and we’re expecting some quality running rugby.
Get up there early, support all grades, and build into what should be a huge Premier clash.
Live Stream – We Need Your Help
We’re looking to add a couple more people to our live stream crew as camera operators.
If you’ve ever thought about getting involved behind the scenes, this is a great way to do it. The Ridland lads will show you everything you need to know — Genda equal opportunity, no experience required, just a willingness to help out and be part of the team.
If you’re keen, get in touch with Rob Ridland 027 753 0123 or me on 021 317 331.
Final Word
This weekend is what club rugby is all about.
Milestones.
Junior rugby kicking off.
Big games across all grades.
And a proper night at the club to bring everyone together.
Get up to the Chook House, support the teams, celebrate two absolute legends of our club, and be part of what makes Tukapa special.
See you all there.
Scotty Siffleet
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