Set to kick off in 2025, the academy is designed to nurture rugby talent in Year 9 and 10 boys through a structured, two-period-a-week programme that runs alongside their academic studies. But it’s about far more than just rugby — it’s about developing great young people, building confidence, discipline, and pride.

What impressed me most is the bigger vision behind the programme. When I sat down with principal Dale Burden, it was clear that this isn’t just about sport. It’s about creating lasting opportunities — whether that’s playing, coaching, refereeing, or simply learning valuable life skills. Dale’s commitment to excellence and community is inspiring, and his ambition to make Howick College the leading public school in East Auckland is something I wholeheartedly support.

The trials have already begun, and there’s a real buzz around the school. Year 9 boys are currently trialling for next year’s Year 10 spots, and Year 8 trials are scheduled for Saturday, November 23. It’s great to see so much enthusiasm and talent emerging already.

I’ve always had a personal connection to rugby and to Howick College. I moved to New Zealand from Howick, South Africa, and spent the final 18 months of my high school years at Howick College. Rugby was a bridge for me — a way to find connection, community, and camaraderie in a new country.

After school, I followed my passion into fitness and coaching. In 2001, I returned to coach the school’s fifth-grade team, then trained the First XV in 2003 — both teams making the finals. I went on to coach at Pakuranga United Rugby Club, helping them to two finals and a championship win.

These days, I’m the founder of Walker Homes Ltd, a locally owned and operated development company that builds high-quality, architecturally designed homes here in East Auckland. We pride ourselves on delivering for the people who live in our communities — and that same philosophy is what drives me to support the next generation at Howick College.

What really sets this new Rugby Academy apart is the calibre of coaching. The school recently announced that JP Faamausili — a legend in Auckland rugby circles — will join the team in 2025. JP brings more than two decades of experience and a deep understanding of talent development at all levels, including stints with Auckland Rugby, the Blues, and New Zealand Secondary Schools.

Joining forces with current coach Waisake Sotutu, the pair will bring an unmatched depth of knowledge, experience, and leadership to the programme. That’s exactly the kind of support our young players need to grow and thrive.

At Walker Homes, we’ve been fortunate to succeed in what we do — and I believe that success should be shared. That’s why I’m committed to giving back to the school and the sport that gave me so much. I truly believe rugby can transform lives — it builds discipline, resilience, and confidence.

I want to encourage other local businesses, alumni, and community members to get behind the school and support its many growing programmes — not just in rugby, but across the board. There’s something special happening at Howick College, and with the right support, I believe we’ll see them competing — and winning — at the highest levels very soon.

Let’s build something great, together.

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