The Mount Aspiring College (MAC) boys 1st XV rugby season will begin tomorrow (Saturday June 20) with the daunting task of taking on last year’s southern secondary schools champions Otago Boys High School (OBHS).

In a revamped competition MAC will compete in the premiership division (top six) after finishing in the top six last year.

The team will have a five week run of top competition, playing OBHS, John McGlashan College, Southland Boys High School, Kings High School and Dunstan High School.

After the first round the bottom two teams from division one drop down, and the top two teams from division two come up. After another round, the competition is split into top four, middle four and bottom four. This part is a semi final and a final for each section.

MAC director of rugby Hamish Crosby is optimistic about the boys chances this year with 10 of last year's successful squad returning. 

“The team is looking relatively strong again this year. We have 10 players back from last year’s team and most of them started most games last year,” said Hamish. “We are under no illusions as to how tough the first round is going to be”.

Outstanding loose forwards Ryan Jones and Fergus Read are back and MAC will be looking to them to be competitive on the ball. Lachie MacDonald moves from loose forward to hooker and will team up with experienced prop Rhys Hughes.

In the backs, second-five Ryan Schmack and fullback Marcus Hetherington will be key players. 

MAC beat Central Southland College in a warm-up game last Saturday in Winton. Coaches Carl Schmack, Craig Read and Hamish will be hoping that the home ground advantage will lift their side tomorrow in what should be an entertaining clash. The match kicks off at 1pm (Saturday 20 June) at Mount Aspiring College.

PHOTO: Stu Wilson