Thunder Indigenous Women Claim Historic Victory Over Fierce Waiariki Māori Side
In a thrilling clash at the Rangataua Rugby Club in Tauranga, the Thunder Indigenous Women secured a hard-fought 17–12 win over a determined and physically imposing Waiariki Māori team, marking a historic milestone for the squad.
Battling through gusty winds and biting cold, the Thunder showed grit and composure from the opening whistle. Sasha, McKee, Sophie Weeks, Elysie, and Rosa were standout contributors, holding firm in defense and sparking attacking opportunities. Sasha, in particular, lit up the game with two tries, proving unstoppable with ball in hand.
The Thunder forwards stamped their authority at the set piece, consistently winning clean ball and putting Waiariki under pressure. That dominance up front allowed playmaker Leilani to unleash the backline with precision, keeping the Thunder on the front foot.
The match was a test of resilience and discipline against a fierce Waiariki outfit who never backed down. But in the end, it was the Thunder’s composure and team unity that saw them home.
Final Score: Thunder Indigenous Women 17 – 12 Waiariki Māori Women
This victory is more than just a result — it’s a statement. The Thunder Indigenous Women have shown they can meet physical fire with skill, structure, and heart, and come out on top.
Thunder Indigenous Rugby Stun Te Aute in Historic Away Victory
In a cold, driving rain on the storied grounds of Te Aute College in New Zealand, the Thunder Indigenous Rugby side from Canada delivered one of the biggest upsets of the year, edging the world-renowned Te Aute 1st XV 16–15 in a nail-biting clash.
The game was as much a battle of heart as it was of skill, with both sides contending with miserable weather conditions that turned the pitch into a slippery, heavy challenge. From the opening whistle, the Thunder showed they weren’t intimidated by Te Aute’s reputation, matching the home side’s physicality and refusing to yield an inch.
Thunder fly-half Daniel Turvey orchestrated the attack with calm authority, repeatedly finding space with smart kicking and keeping the defensive line organised under immense pressure. His composure in such hostile territory was pivotal. Simroy John was another standout, his surging runs and defensive commitment breaking Te Aute’s rhythm time and again.
The Thunder’s leadership group — Mike Chandler, Jerome Seymour, and Isaiah Sousedik — were immense. In the toughest moments, their presence kept the team’s belief alive, especially in the closing stages when Te Aute mounted a desperate comeback.
In the final minute, with the scoreboard reading 16–15 to the Thunder, Te Aute had a golden opportunity to snatch victory with a conversion attempt. The home crowd held its breath — but in the swirling rain, the kick drifted wide. Seconds later, the final whistle blew, and the Thunder’s players erupted in celebration.
While this result may not make as many headlines as it deserves, its significance is huge. Not only did an Indigenous Canadian side topple one of the most respected schoolboy rugby programs in the world, but they did it on Te Aute’s own turf, in conditions that would break lesser teams.
This was more than a win — it was a statement. The Thunder showed that Indigenous rugby is not just alive, but thriving, capable of standing toe-to-toe with the best in the world.
