OZTAG players from across the country have proudly represented their cultural heritage on the field in Coffs Harbour.
The players competed in the International Tag Series, a unique tournament which sees players representing their cultural heritage rather than their country of residence.
New Zealand won the Mixed Seniors title beating the Irish Exiles 6-2 in their grand final at C.ex Coffs International Stadium.
The New Zealand defence proved to be the difference in the wet weather conditions, with the Kiwis repelling numerous attacking raids from the Irish as they staunchly defended their tryline.
Winnie Henry was the co-captain of the New Zealand side, and the proud Māori woman found the tournament a way to express pride in her cultural heritage.
“The cultural experience and the cultural love with our people is what makes this tournament,” she said.
“To do the tournament with the people that you love, and for our people, our ancestors, and all the next generations that will follow.
“It’s key that people know where they come from and what their background is, and I think this tournament provides that for everyone that is of heritage.”
Henry said her team’s defence played a pivotal role in winning the grand final.
“Defence is key in this game, defence wins you the game, and all the tries coming off the back of it is just a bonus,” she said.
By Aiden BURGESS
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