Region of Origin launched

Region of Origin launched

June 22, 2018

North and South Auckland will clash for regional bragging rights in the inaugural Region of Origin Series, which kicks off in September.

The Auckland Rugby League’s new youth representative series will bring together the region’s best players from U12/13 restricted level through to U18s, with teams to play over three-consecutive Saturdays from September 15 at Cornwall Park, Auckland.

In the case of the U16 and U18 grades, the series will also serve as a trial for selection in the U16 and U18 Auckland teams, which will play an end-of-year series against Auckland Niue age-group teams.

Auckland Rugby League coaching and development manager Andy Hay said the revamped series has been designed to maximise opportunities for young players.

“The Region of Origin is another chance to give our young players some meaningful representative games, where they can showcase their talents and further develop their skills,” Hay said.

“It’s important players are given the chance to play with and against the best in their age group, and the Region of Origin allows that, at the same time as giving them the thrill of representing their area of Auckland.

“The end-of-year games against Niue are going to be huge, and for players hoping to be involved in those, the journey starts here.”

Clubs will nominate players to attend Auckland Vulcans Development Days through July and August, from which 40-strong train-on squads for each region and grade will be selected.

2018 Region of Origin Series

Saturday, September 15 at Cornwall Park

Saturday, September 22 at Cornwall Park

Saturday, September 29 at Cornwall Park

ENDS

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