#WHYSK: Warriors at the '95 World Sevens
The maiden edition of Warriors History You Should Know marks 31 years since the Warriors’ first competitive outing – the 1995 World Sevens.
The maiden edition of Warriors History You Should Know marks 31 years since the Warriors’ first competitive outing – the 1995 World Sevens.
The fledgling Auckland Warriors had already played three trial matches in January ahead of their foundation premiership campaign, defeating Canterbury 26-12 in front of a bumper Addington Showgrounds crowd in Christchurch, Central Districts 36-16 in Palmerston North and Auckland 46-20 at Carlaw Park.
The Warriors sent a strong squad to Australia for the Coca-Cola World Sevens on the first weekend of February: Phil Blake, Sean Hoppe, Manoa Thompson, Tea Ropati, Whetu Taewa, Gene Ngamu, Syd Eru, Stephen Kearney, Tony Tatupu and Des Maea.
Livewire utility Blake was named skipper of the squad. He boasted the title of unofficial king of Sevens rugby league, dominating the inaugural event in 1988 and leading South Sydney to the title with eight tries and 62 points.
