Greerton Marist Junior Rugby Club

2026 Season Registrations – Now Open!

Kia ora Greerton Marist whānau,We are excited to announce that registrations for the 2026 Junior Rugby Season are now open on the Rugby Xplorer App! We’re looking forward to another fantastic year of rugby, development, friendships, and club spirit.The WBOP Junior Management Committee (JMC) has confirmed several important updates for the 2026 season. Below is a summary of what this means for our Greerton Marist families.

Key Changes for 2026

1. Year Group Alignment

From 2026, all teams will be based on school Year groups rather than traditional Under-age grades. This aligns with NZ Rugby guidelines and supports children playing alongside their school friends.

Year 1 – Rippa (Previously U6)
Year 2 – Rippa (Previously U7)
Year 3 – 7-aside Tackle (Previously U8)
Year 4 – 8-aside Tackle (Previously U9)
Year 5 – 10-aside Tackle (Previously U10)
Year 6 – 10-aside Tackle (Previously U11)
Year 7 – 15-aside Tackle (Previously U12)
Year 8 – 15-aside Tackle (Previously U13)

2. Removal of Weight Bands

Local weight bands that previously forced some children to play up a grade have been removed. This supports a more child-centred and wellbeing-focused approach, keeping tamariki playing with friends.

3. Dispensations (Play Down or Play Up)

Dispensations remain available for players who may need to play up or down a grade. Weigh-ins are only required for players applying to play down.

Year 4 → Year 3: Under 25kg
Year 5 → Year 4: Under 30kg
Year 6 → Year 5: Under 35kg
Year 7 → Year 6: Under 40kg
Year 8 → Year 7: Under 45kg
Year 9 → Year 8: Under 55kg (subject to school team availability)

Year 7 & 8 Competition Format

Term 2:

Round-robin format
No competition tables
Teams grouped to support even play

Term 3:

Optional short competition grade (approx. 4–5 weeks)
Remaining teams placed in even playing groups

2026 Season Dates

Season runs from late April through early September 2026, including:- Season start in early May- King’s Birthday weekend (no competition)- Junior Rugby Festival (Te Puna)- Year 1–5 Festival Day- Competition pause for U12/U13 during festival- AIMS Games period in early September

Why Play for Greerton Marist?

• Strong community and whānau culture• Quality coaching focused on development• Fun, inclusive team environments• Lifelong friendships and rugby pathwaysWe welcome new and returning players from Year 1 to Year 8.Up the Green & Gold!

Article added: Friday 20 February 2026