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Chooks News 4 Apr 2025

Hey Team,

Week 2 is here, and while I’m not sugar-coating it, we’ve faced some challenges with player numbers across all teams. However, I’ve been absolutely blown away by the dedication and effort of the management teams and senior players who’ve gone above and beyond to ensure we didn’t default on any teams last week—and we’re pushing hard to make sure Week 2 is no different. This is exactly why we say Tukapa is one club—it’s the people, working together, that make us great.

This week, our Premiers, Div 1, and Colts are heading down to Hawera to take on Southern. Southern had a strong first round with three big wins over United and Okaiawa, so we know they’ll be tough opponents. But with nearly all of our squads back to full strength, we’ll be giving them a serious run for their money. Our eyes are on the Werder Challenge Cup, awarded to the best-performing club on the day.

Our Premiers have unfortunately picked up a few injuries over the past couple of weeks:

  • Chris Jollands (broken arm) – 6-8 weeks out
  • Olive Lam Yuen (ankle injury) – 4 weeks out
  • Thomas Edwards – 3-4 weeks out
  • Josh Keech & Ethan Lobb – injury status TBD

While these injuries stretch our resources, we’ve got a strong line-up ready to battle.

Our Div 2 boys are heading out to Bell Block to face the only other local team in the division. We’re running low on numbers due to players moving overseas and others stepping up to Div 1, but we’ve had a great response from ex-players rejoining the team. Over the past week, we’ve seen 6 new players at training. If you’re keen to play—even just occasionally—let me, Greenie, or Rebo know. We need you to keep this team going strong!

Our Toa women kick off their pre-season this weekend with their first game against Okaiawa at Joll Park at 11:30 am. This team is full of energy, with around 34 active players and 20 newcomers to Tukapa. Big shoutout to our management team—Plims, Jas, and Vicky—for building such a fantastic culture. These women are all in on our vision of One Club, and I’m excited to see how far they can go this season. We’re all proud to have this team up and running, and a special thanks to Kevin Curd for encouraging me to get it started. Best of luck, ladies!

We’ve got some great news on the sponsorship front. Most of our existing sponsors are back for another year, with some even doubling their support. And we’ve got a huge announcement coming soon about a new sponsor that will have a major impact on how we see our club. Keep an eye out! If you’re looking to help out Tukapa and align your business with us, reach out to Rob Ridland for sponsorship opportunities.

I’ve got to give a massive shoutout to Jan Holdt, one of Tukapa’s biggest assets. Jan has secured over $30,000 in community grants for us already in 2025. She’s done a phenomenal job, and I can’t say enough how much her hard work means to this club. Jan, you’re a Tukapa legend!

Now, some news that won’t be as popular—due to price increases from Lion Breweries, we will have to adjust some of the prices at the bar. I know this isn’t ideal, but remember: every drink you buy at Tukapa helps support the club. Thanks for your understanding.

Don’t forget about the junior muster this Saturday at 10 am. Be sure to get your kids to the club to pay their subs and collect their jerseys. Also, if you’re looking for new Tukapa gear, our merch is now live on thelockerroom.co.nz Check it out and grab some new gear to support your club!

See you on the sidelines this weekend!

Blue and White for Life
Chairperson
Scotty Siffleet

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Address

Gladstone Road
Westown
New Plymouth, 4310

P.O Box

PO Box 389
Taranaki Mail Centre
New Plymouth 4340
 

Email

info@tukapa.co.nz
 

Phone

Scott Siffleet
021 317 331
 
 

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