Otago Rugby Union eNewsletter

Editorial

Otago NPC fans, THANK YOU!!!!!!! We can not fully express how incredible it has been to see Otago supporters step back into the stadium, in mass, to let this team know how much it means and how supported they truly are, it means everything.

And now, it's the eve of Grand Finals and we have an incredible group of men who have poured EVERYTHING into making sure they are the one's standing on that pitch tomorrow. We look forward to seeing the blue & gold swarm Apollo Stadium, let's make some noise let them know we are there. Otaaagooo!!!!!

Last week we held our NPC & FPC awards night to recognise an exceptional year of rugby from both our Men and Women, what an incredible time to be an Otago Rugby fan. A massive congratulations to all our winners. Check out the results below.

Scroll down for more rugby news and announcements like development opportunities, weekly happenings, rugby courses and more…

ODT Interesting Reads!

Otago Head Coach Mark Brown has named his side to Bunnings Warehouse NPC Final Warehouse NPC against Canterbury on Saturday 25 October, 4:05pm, at Apollo Projects Stadium, Christchurch.

In keeping with the approach adopted throughout the season, the squad remains consistent across all areas, with Sam Gilbert continuing to lead the side as Captain and Christian Lio-Willie serving as Vice-Captain.

“It’s a privilege to be part of a final. We’re excited to play one final game together and to have one final chance to play in front of our family, friends and fans. I know there is already going to be a strong blue and gold presence at the game, but everyone loves a road trip so if you haven’t already made plans, grab a ticket and hit the road”. – Head Coach, Mark Brown.

The game will be streamed live on Sky Sport NZ.

2025 MANAGEMENT STAFF:

Head Coach: Mark Brown

Assistant Coaches: Ryan Bambry, Will Henry, Lee Allan, Mitch Scott

S & C Coach: Ben Shepard

Physio: Alex Gough

Manager: Simon Wallace

Assistant Manager: Grant Pellowe

Doctor: Andrew Haren

Performance Nutritionist: Georgia Mitchell

Personal Development Manager: Amanda Slade

Performance Analyst: Spencer Byers

On Tuesday evening both the Otago Spirit and Otago team got together alongside, family, sponsors and members of the ORFU Board and staff to celebrate the season and highlight outstanding performances.

Both teams have had outstanding seasons, with the NPC team still in Finals mode!

Otago Rugby 2025 Awards

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Otago Spirit FPC Back of the Year

Abigail Paton

Otago Spirit FPC Forward of the Year

Greer Muir

Otago Spirit FPC Most Valuable Player

Greer Muir

Otago Spirit FPC Players Player

Leila Hill

Otago Spirit FPC Brousnac Award

Rawinia Ngamoki-Moana

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Otago NPC Rookie of the Year

Dylan Pledger

Otago NPC Forward of the Year

Will Stodart

Otago NPC Back of the Year

Dylan Pledger

Otago NPC Most Valuable Player

Dylan Pledger

Otago Season Members Player of the Year

Dylan Pledger

David ‘Crazy’ Latta Award (Players Player)

Henry Bell