It’s been a long time between drinks, but Paroa finally have their name on the Ratana Rose Bowl after 51 years.

The Rātana Rose Bowl is a long-standing Māori rugby challenge trophy in New Zealand that has been contested annually by Paroa, Te Teko, Arataki, Rangiuru and Rangataua since being first presented by the Ratana Church in the 1920s.

A 24-19 victory over Rangataua was enough to secure Paroa the trophy for the first time.

Usually three matches are played, however, this season it was shortened to two games.

In their first game, Paroa hammered Te Teko, making their clash with Rangataua a final-like contest.

Paroa coach Brett Wharewera said his hard-working team deserved to take home the trophy.

“It’s a huge honour for our club. The Rose Bowl has a lot of history, and to bring it back to Paroa after more than 40 years is special. The boys put in a lot of hard work during preseason, and to see that pay off means a lot, not just for the players but for our wider club, and hopefully the Eastern Bay community as well.

“I’ve had lots of previous players message saying they had so many attempts and never won it, so they’re really proud of the boys, and I am, too.”

He said the team remained focused despite a late change to the draw.

“With a late change to the draw, each team played two games. We played our Te Teko whānau and then Rangataua. After a physical game against Te Teko, we had to beat Rangataua by at least three points to come away with this taonga. Arataki was the other team who won two games, so we had to wait on the result of our game. I think the points difference ended up being five points.”

Wharewera said they love the Eastern Bay competition, and the Rose Bowl challenge was the perfect warmup for that.

“The boys are definitely excited and feeling well prepared. The Rose Bowl gave us a good platform to build on, but we know the EBOP season will be another step up. T

“he focus now is staying consistent, working hard for each other, and improving each week.”

Paora captain Kurt Baker said it was a surreal feeling winning the trophy.

“Stoked as especially with such a young team and they played their hearts out against Rangataua.”

Whakatāne Marist player-coach Hamuera Hudson said it was awesome hearing about Paroa’s result.

“I think it’s fantastic and full credit to them they deserve it. It’s great for Eastern Bay Rugby but also their club. They’re a proud club and I’m really happy for them that they won it.”

Te Teko coach Don Te Maipi was also full of praise for Paroa winning the Rose Bowl.

“They gave us a bit of a hiding but well done to them. It’s good to see it in the Eastern Bay.”