SARIYAH PAITAI - Year 12
Congratulations to year 12 student Sariyah Paitai who was selected for the New Zealand Under 18 Girls Barbarians Rugby Team. Sariyah was one of two Counties players and the only South Auckland school rugby player to be selected. The team went into camp for 4 days with an experienced coaching team that included Black ferns legend Kendra Cocksedge. The NZ Barbarians Under 18 girls played NZ Maori Under 18 girls at Growers Stadium on Friday October 6. Sariyah started the game on the wing and played until the 70th minute where she suffered an injury to her nose just before the Baba's try line! With blood spilling from the bridge of her nose, she was unable to finish the game. Sariyah showed great strength in the break down area and exerted immense pressure on defence. Sariyah who played centre and first five for the Wesley 1st XV, did her best to support her side from the edges. The Babas ultimately went down to an excellent NZ Maori side. Sariyah played a smart game full of that 'up the gutz' play that Wesleyans love to share on the paddock.
We are so proud of your efforts Sariyah Paitai.