Page 17 - Grassroots Issue 2 - Feb 2016

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As part of the grassroots initiative, local rugby league The Bromwich brothers are making waves for the
clubs were given the opportunity to host a visit from an younger youth of their stomping ground. Alongside
NRL team on Thursday 4 February, in the lead-up to the them is team mate Nafe Seulini, another fan favourite
Waitangi weekend tournament. who also reigns from Manurewa but played as a junior
for the Mangere East Hawks.
The Melbourne Storm squad and staff were traditionally Although the Melbourne Storm led their respective
welcomed on by James Cook High School before pool, making it through day one of the Auckland Nines
taking their seats. The local Kaumatua and former undefeated, they fell short against the Parramatta Eels
Marlins coach Bobby Clarke invited the team to the in the semi finals 17-8 to make finals.
home of the Marlins.
2016Issue 2 - February /
To cap off formal proceedings, the Melbourne storm
team and hosts greeted each other with a hongi – the
ceremonial touching of noses.

"It's awesome to be home and for Jesse and I to be
visiting our home club,” says younger brother and team
mate Kenny Bromwich.

"It's a good turn out and pretty cool to show the boys
where we grew up and to experience the culture," he
said.

It was a great turn-out for the South Auckland club.

Members, fans and the local community all turned up
for the chance to meet their favourite NRL players -
some living as far as Orewa, north of Auckland.

They lined up anxiously to collect signatures before
having a chance to do skills and drills with them on the
field.

Melbourne Storm players also joined in on a haka with
the young ones.