Held annually in Napier over Labour Weekend, the Tuatahi First Fibre U19 National Tournament brings together the best young footballers from across Aotearoa, showcasing emerging talent and club culture from every corner of the country.

North Wellington FC is proud to have had both our Boys and Girls U19 teams competing in the main draws of this prestigious event, one of only two Wellington clubs to achieve that milestone.

It was a fantastic experience having both teams staying together in the same accommodation. The interaction and camaraderie between squads across the weekend truly reflected what North Wellington stands for: connection, community, and shared ambition. Seeing players support each other between games, share recovery time, and celebrate small wins together was a real highlight of the trip.

Girls U19s – Building Character and Belief

Whilst the results did not go our way, the North Wellington Girls U19s can be immensely proud of their efforts. The tournament brought challenges early, losing their goalkeeper just two days before the competition began, but Kayla Morris stepped up superbly, showing outstanding character and composure.

“Our squad and coaching staff worked hard throughout our six-week preparation,” said Head Coach Ben Coom. “The dedication and time spent absorbing information and understanding how we wanted to play was extremely impressive.”

Drawn into a tough group that included two semifinalists, the girls never lost heart. Their work rate and desire to keep pushing never faltered. The focus remained on internal growth and small wins, decisions, moments, and lessons that will help shape a bright future for this talented group.

A standout moment came when Kayla Morris saved a penalty against Birkenhead, a display of courage and resilience that summed up the team’s spirit. “The reaction of the squad, despite having already lost the game, was priceless,” Ben said. “It showed the character and togetherness within this group.”

Special mentions go to captain Ruby Carman, who led superbly through adversity, and to Grayce Robins, named Player of the Tournament for her consistency and calm presence at the back.

Ben extended heartfelt thanks to Matt Carman and Andy Vines for their coaching support, and to Tom and Kylie, whose tireless management made the experience memorable for all involved. The parents and travelling supporters also made a huge impact, with their energy and encouragement felt throughout the weekend.

“This squad is young, talented, and tight-knit,” Ben said. “They have represented North Wellington with pride both on and off the pitch, and their moment will come.”

Boys U19s – Competing with Heart and Habits

The Boys U19s also impressed, showcasing how much progress can be made in a short time. With players drawn from six different teams, Head Coach Tate MacPherson and his staff had just five weeks to build chemistry, and their collective effort was evident.

“The message of habits was referred back to throughout,” Tate said. “This tournament is a unique opportunity to bridge the gap between youth and senior football, and if used in the right way, it teaches players lessons they can take into any dressing room.”

Despite being placed in what many dubbed the group of death, with both eventual finalists coming from their pool, North Wellington never looked out of place. Every match was competitive, and the team came agonisingly close to progressing.

Heading into their final game, the boys needed a 4–0 win and favourable results elsewhere to advance. Despite tired legs and bruised bodies, they fought until the very end, securing a 3–0 win that left a lasting impression on all who watched.

“At no point were we outplayed,” Tate reflected. “That shows all the hard work did not go in vain.”

Special thanks go to Gareth Winder for his outstanding team management, Vikas Chauhan for his continued excellence in the Strength and Conditioning space, and Tom Speers, who captained the side superbly after a demanding Central League season.

Looking Ahead

Both squads can hold their heads high after representing North Wellington with pride and unity at a national level. Their shared experience, training, living, and competing together, has strengthened bonds and created lasting memories across the club.

The performances and togetherness shown in Napier reflect the strength of our youth development pathway and the values we aim to instil across all our teams: teamwork, resilience, and respect.

This year’s tournament was a success on every level. It was more than football; it was about connection, learning, and growth. Here’s to an even stronger showing in 2026.

Article added: Wednesday 29 October 2025