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What rugby jersey means the most to you?

Ando reflects on the jersey displays throughout Pakuranga United's clubrooms.

Every jersey has a story behind it.
A team, a season, a friendship, or a moment that still means something years later.

One of the jerseys he treasures most is an Auckland Grammar First XV jersey gifted to him by his mate, Grant Patten.

Some jerseys are more than memorabilia.

Which jersey in your clubrooms carries the most history?

Are grassroots clubs just feeder clubs for bigger teams?

Francis Leilua has seen generations come through East Tamaki.

Future stars like Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, the Tuivasa-Sheck family, and the Rush family all started their journeys there.

Yet many young players eventually move on to larger clubs chasing opportunities and recognition.

The talent often leaves before the club gets the reward.

Small clubs build players. Bigger clubs often benefit.

Why are so many junior players disappearing before senior rugby?

Ioane Ioane says East Tamaki still has a strong junior presence throughout Ōtara.
The challenge isn't getting kids into rugby.
It's keeping them involved long enough to play senior footy.
Many clubs are seeing the same pattern.
Strong junior numbers don't automatically create strong senior teams.
The pathway matters.

Is your club seeing the same drop-off from juniors to seniors?

What happens when a rugby club becomes more than just a place to play?

In this episode of Club Rooms, Warren Makaua shares his journey from junior rugby through to becoming a Life Member of Mount Wellington Rugby Football Club.

We talk about the highs, the challenges, the people who built the club, and why community still matters more than ever.

For many, a rugby club is where lifelong friendships are formed, lessons are learned, and a sense of belonging is found. Warren's story is a reminder of why these places are worth protecting.

🎥 Watch the preview below.
▶️ The full episode is available now on YouTube.

If you've ever called a rugby club home, we'd love to hear your memories in the comments.

What’s the one club game you still talk about today?

One game still stands out after all these years
A smaller, fast-moving side taking it to the opposition
Locked at 24-all when full-time should have ended it

The score was 24-all before extra time was played

The games you lose can leave the biggest memories