Up North, well off the beaten track lies the small town of Tapora. Though not too far from civilisation, this rural town is home to a small population including 19 year old Farm Cadet, and Metro Men’s player - Tama Hawken. 

Hawken makes a 3 hour round trip to Auckland multiple times a week to attend Touch training. A commitment that would deter many.

However Hawken is proving with his relentless tenacity and dedication comes the rewards he has worked so hard to achieve.

Tama Hawken Captained the NZ 20 Mixed at the 2020 Youth Trans-Tasman earlier this year, where he played alongside younger sister Chrysanthe (NZ 18 Girls). 

He was also set to debut for the Touch Blacks Open Mixed before the series was postponed due to the current Covid-19 pandemic.

Now part of the Premier Touch League (PTL), Hawken is a key play maker for a fierce Metro Men’s squad who are looking to nab the title after securing their spot in the 2020 Grand Final.

Accomplishing all this is no easy feat, but a passionate Hawken continues to give back to the sport in more ways than one.

Not only has he gained his Level 2 in refereeing, he’s also Head Coach of the Mahurangi College Touch Team. 

“I’ve won 2 silver medals with this team, one as a player and one as a coach. Now it’s time to go one better and win the gold” he said, a goal for the 2020 NZSS Touch Nationals being held in early December.

Hawken is no stranger to success, being part of the Auckland Touch Open Mixed team who have won the grade for the last 5 years straight. 

The increased profiling of the sport through livestreaming an added benefit in his eyes. 

“I think it’s awesome for the game, it makes it feel like a professional sport and hopefully that’s another step closer to making it happen” he said.

He continues to add more strings to his bow with his future goals set high.

“I want to win PTL, Whakatane and Open Men’s Nationals all in one year” he said, “that and own my own farm one day.”

Article added: Tuesday 24 November 2020