TOUR ITINERARY

TOUR PARTY

MASTERS

#01: Father Ninian McNamara S.J. (School Chaplain)
Interests: Classical Music, Architecture, Photography, Rugby (all in an amateur way).

#02: R. John Davies (1st XV Coach)
Interests: All Sports, good food, good wine and missionary work (trying to teach the English to play rugby). Many years ago, played rugby for London Welsh, Blackheath, Essex & Eastern Counties. Master.

TOUR CAPTAIN

#28: Andy Woolgar (Capt, Prop)
Age 18 | 1st XV (1979-82)
Sports Achievements: Represented Eastern Counties U18, U19 | England U16 Rugby Trialist | Essex Shot Put Champion | ATC Discus/Shot Champion (1978-80)
Personal Interests: Sports, travelling, meeting people, music.
Proposed career - Banking/insurance.

TOURING SQUAD

#3: Dominic Brooks (No.8 / Wing Forward)
Age 17 | 1st XV (1980-82)
Represented U15, U16, U19 for Essex and U16 for Eastern Counties | School Cricket, Swimming & Athletics Team.
interested in most Sports, Cycling, Music, Walking.
Proposed career - Civil Engineer/ Chartered Accountant.

#4: Patrick Clarke (Hooker / Prop)
Age 16
Sports Achievements: Represented Essex Schools U15, U16, Eastern Counties, London Schools U16 and England U16 Trialist
Personal Interests: Sport. A.T.C., Youth Groups
Proposed career - Computer Programmer.

#5 Robert Daenen (2nd Row)
Age 17 | 1st XV (1981-82) | 2nd XV (1980-82)
Personal Interests: Most Sports, First Aid and Coin Collecting.
Proposed career - Medicine.

#6: Finbarr Deane (Hooker)
Age 18 | 1st XV (1981-82) | 2nd XV (1979-81)
Sports Achievements: Member of School Swimming Squad.
Personal Interests: Most sports, weight training, motoring and music.
Proposed career - Banking/ Finance

#7: Simon Dobinson (Half-Back)
Age 18 | 1st XV (1981-82) | 2nd XV (1979-82)
Sports Achievements: Represented Havering U15 | Essex Trialist | School Cricket 1st XI (1981-82)
Personal Interests: Photography, driving, most sports and wine-making
Proposed career - Banking/Accountancy.

#8: Chris Duhig (Back Row)
Age 18 | 1st XV (1980-82)
Sports Achievements: School Cricket Team | Catholic Youth Clubs National 5~A-Side Championship Finalists
Personal Interests: Contemporary Music, Angling, Breeding Fresh Water Fish, Tennis and skiing
Proposed career - Dealer on Stock Market.

#9: Greg Dunseath (Lock / No. 8)
Age 18 | 1st XV (1980-82)
Sports Achievements: Havering Hurdles & High Jump Champion (1980) | British Canoe Union 3 Star Canoeist
Personal Interests: All sports, car maintenance, electronics and music
Proposed career ~ Electronic Engineer.

#10: Andrew Headon (Centre / Wing)
Age 16

#11: Jonathan King (Vice-Captain, Outside-Half)
Age 17 | 1st XV (1980-82)
Sports Achievements: Represented Essex U15, U16, U19 & Eastern Counties U16 | School Cricket Team
Personal Interests: Canoeing, Sailing, Fishing & Music.
Proposed career - Teaching.

#12: Fergus Lamont (Lock Forward)
Age 18 | 1st XV (1980-82)
Sports Achievements: Player of the Year (1981 -82) | Member School of Cricket Team
Personal Interests: Most sports. 
Proposed career - Accountant

#13: Kevin Leaver (Centre / Wing)
Age 17 | 1st XV (1980-82)
Sports Achievements: Essex U16 | National Sevens Semi- Finalist | Havering U19 Long Jump Champion (1981)
Personal Interests:  All sports and music.
Proposed career - Surveying

#14: Daniel McCarthy (Fly Half / Centre)
Age 16 | 2nd XV
Sports Achievements: Havering Rugby (1979-81) | Essex Football (1978-79)
Personal Interests: Music, most Sports, Youth Club.
Proposed career - Banking/Accountancy.

#15: Brián McQuillan (Prop)
Age 17 | 1st XV (1981-82) | 2nd XV (1981-82)
Sports Achievements: District Rugby Captain (1978)
Personal Interests: Most sports and music.
Proposed career - Accountant.

#16: Richard Mongan (Prop / 2nd Row)
Age 18 | 1st XV (1980-82) | 2nd XV Captain (1981-82)
Sports Achievements: Swimming Team Captain (1981) | ATC National Breaststroke Finalist
Personal Interests: Electronics, scouts, A.T.C. Swimming and Music
Proposed career - Electronic/ Acoustic Engineer.

#17: Paul Nolan (Centre/Wing)
Age 17 | 1st XV (1980/82)
Sports Achievements: Havering Decathlon Champion (1981) | Havering Cross Country Winning Team (1982)
Personal Interests:  All sports and music.
Proposed career - Forestry.

#18: Richard Parker (Lock Forward)
Age 18
Sports Achievements: Represented Eastern Counties Schools and Essex U16
Personal Interests:  All Sports

#19: Neil Renshaw (Scrum Half)
Age 18 | 1st XV (1981-82) | 2nd XV (1981-82)
Sports Achievements: Represented Havering | Member of 1st XI Cricket Team.
Personal Interests: Most sports. Enjoys reading, travelling, contemporary music and driving
Proposed career - Medicine.

#20: Andrew Sharkey (Wing Forward / No.8)
Age 18 | 1st XV (1981 -82)
Sports Achievements: 1st Xl Cricket (1980-82) | Member of A.T.C. Rugby Team.
Personal Interests: Interested in A.T.C., Walking, Reading, Music, Camping, Wildlife, Flying
Proposed career - RAF Pilot.

#21: Robert Stevenson (Wing/Back Row)
Age 18 | 1st XV (1980-82)
Sports Achievements:  Captain of Diocesan 5-A-Side Team | School Swimming Captain | School Football Team
Personal Interests: Traveling, photography and all sports.
Proposed career - Retail Management.

#22: Chris Thomas (Centre/Full Back)
Age 19 | 1st XV (1979-82)
Sports Achievements: Represented Essex U19 | 1st XI Cricket (1979-82) | District in Athletics and Cricket.
Interests: Most Sports.
Proposed career - Police.

#23: Richard Tucker (Second Row)
Age 16
Sports Achievements: Member of U16 School Team | Represented Havering
Personal Interests: Athletics, Youth Groups, Voluntary Work.
Proposed career - Police Services.

#24: John Tynan (Prop/Wing)
Age 18 | 1st XV (1979-82)
Sports Achievements: Represented Essex and Eastern Counties (1980-82) | Havering District Javelin Champion (1978-81)
Personal Interests: Photography, Driving, most sports.
Proposed career - Chemical Engineering

#25: Christopher White (No.8 / Back Row)
Age 16
Sports Achievements: Represented Essex and Eastern Counties U16 | School and District Decathlon Champion (1980) | A.T.C. National High Jump Champion (1980).
Personal Interests: Interested in A.T.C. & Golf.
Proposed career - Marine Biologist

#26: Sean White (Full-Back)
Age 17 | 1st XV (1981-82)
Sports Achievements: Represented District U16 | National Sevens Semi-Finalist U19
Personal Interests:  All Sports, music, fishing and wine-making.
Proposed career - Medicine.

#27: Chris Williams (Scrum Half)

TOUR RESULTS

WIN %: 50% | CO-EFFICIENT: 1.43 | BONUS PTS: 11.46

PLAYED: 8 | WON: 4 | LOST: 4 | DRAWN: 0
PTS FOR: 98 | PTS AGAINST: 125 | PTS DIFF: -27

TOUR REPORT

day 1: Departure

A farewell amid 1st Years’ screaming

Tour No 4 was the first of our wider-world ventures, New Zealand - a great idea but an expensive way of playing home-and-away fixtures. We had played Palmerston North High School here, at Campion, when they were on their world tour and J.D. was keen to play the return match in Palmerston North itself.

The tour was on.

After a team photograph and last farewells from our families we left through the school gates with the driveway lined with screaming first years. We were on our way!

Doubts had arisen over the past two years, but now there was no turning back – or was there a gentle hint of what was to come on this tour, as the Lewington’s bus, under disguised name, hit another coach.

However, after 5 minutes of much amusement and amid the cheers to passers-by, we were safely on our way.

At the airport, we met Andrew Woolgar and Bob Stevenson’s parents (that was, after we found the right terminal – another sign!).

The flight was a good one and proved to be amusing. We went up to the cries of “Don’t panic Mr Mannering!”

It seemed there would be jokes every step of the way, especially when Andy Woolgar plastered a poor, young French girl’s backside with tour sponsor - “Lee Cooper” stickers.

In the final hours of the day, we boarded our 747 Jumbo which would take us to Noumea – midnight approached, but no-one was ready to sleep.

DAY 2: IN TRANSIT - THE LONGEST DAY

The day began and ended on the plane.

At the two in the morning we arrived at our first stop – Bahrain. We were shattered! We disembarked and went to sit in the airport lounge, surrounded by Arabs who were staring curiously at us bedraggled English schoolboys.

We lay flat out on the seats whilst some (John Tyan & Chris Williams) tried some gymnastics – to the amusement of all in the lounge. After an hour we departed. It was 3:00 GMT, but already 05:00 local time. Most of us hadn’t slept and it was beginning to get light. As we began to fly during the day no-one could even sleep as it too light.

After another 7 hours in the air – we arrived in Singapore – it was 11:00 GMT, 13:00 in Bahrain and now 17:00 local time. If you’re confused how do you think we felt!!

We had tea at lunchtime and breakfast at supper time!

At Singapore, the Duty-Free shop became host to 26 Campion Boys, and it was only a half hour stop.

Next up was a short hour flight to Jakarta where we weren’t even allowed to disembark. We were cordially invited to stay seated – for the entire 90m whist we were grounded.  We initially refused the invite but had to accept as we realised our situation – although we were allowed read or sleep if we wanted.

As the day came to a close, we began our 4th leg of the trip as we flew to Noumea – or first tour location.

Although technically the shortest day, as we flew towards the date line, it certainly felt the longest.

Day 3: Noumea, french new caledonians

SWEAT OUT JET LAG AND EARLY TO BED

By the time we arrived at the airport it was 08:40 (local time), some 11 hours ahead of England, and we still hadn’t really slept.

We had arrived in New Caledonia - a French colony, first discovered by James Cook and located in the Pacific Ocean some 750 miles off the East coast of Australia.

As we made our way to the Noumea Village Hotel it was ‘spot the local woman’ time. The total was 7 from the airport to the hotel – a distance of 20 miles.

Once at the hotel we ‘peeled’ out of our Lee Copper uniform and called our first team meeting. We were given £5 worth of Noumean Francs to buy lunch and tea. After grabbing a French roll and some ham, we too ka dip in the ‘not-so-Olympic-sized’ swimming pool. It was freezing!!

As we jumped in Andy and Rich M removed the water, as the bar maids looked in in bewildered amusement. We sat around until 5 o’clock when we trooped through the town in our tour tracksuits. Eyes turned and stared intriguingly.

The only place available to train was the local square, so we stretched and sprinted with cars passing around us on all sides whilst some very bemused local watched.

After ‘training’ we had a hot shower and made our own way to a restaurant. It was 8 o’clock. There were nine of us waiting for steak and chips on the other side of the world – heads in hands and on table as we struggled to stay awake.

After some fun with a local lizard, we finally got some sleep.

DAY 4: TRAINING ON THE BEACH AND A QUICK EVACUATION

We awoke at 7 o’clock and we were getting over the jet lag.

After a good breakfast a committee meeting was called, and it was agreed that we should spend the day at the beach……training, especially as there was a demonstration in the town with all the factories on strike and all shops closed.

It was decided, as the squad went to train on the beach, that the sick, lame and lazy (i.e. Fergus & Chris Thomas) were to stay in the hotel to enjoy a quiet afternoon – little did they know!

After a long run along the beach and some training we took a break for lunch. Then there was a phone call saying that we could not return to the hotel because it was opposite the Governor’s house and that riots had broken out. The very biblical warning instructed us to return via another route from our beach training to the bus station.

Meanwhile, at the hotel, as this began to unfold our boys (and their luggage) were bundled into a mini-bus by the hotel staff as they sneaked it,  and them, out of danger and down to the bus station to meet the rest of the squad.

Chris Thomas manged to capture some of the drama on camera - note the gas, the line-up of government forces.

We immediately left, meeting our baggage at the bus depo and departing swiftly and directly to the airport.  

By 7:30pm the plane took off leaving the chaos behind us. The flight took 2 hours and, with the added 1 hour, we landed 22:30 local time.

We had arrived in New Zealand.

At the baggage check we were asked if our boots were clean (not that they were interested in our rugby – more to do with foot and mouth transmission concerns).

We settled in at The Royal Polynesian Hotel – falling fast asleep at midnight after an eventful day.

DAY 5: Whangarei

YOU’RE PLAYING TOMORROW - ON WHAT?

The singing began badly and got progessively worse - we began with a rendition of “The Black Velvet Band” and althoujgh some began singing ‘matchstick men ‘ etc we continued to sing the former, although it did get better once we sang the correct words.

As we passed the local playing fields the young boys were playing rugby, lots of excitement, lots of commitment, but bare feet: the coach driver said it helped to harden their feet for kicking the 'Brits' when they were older.

It was 3:00pm when we arrived in Whangerei - with no time difference for a change!

After we were billetted we were told that we were playing the next day. The team was named and arrangements agreed. We, then left to meet our hosts.

In the evening some boys went to the cinema , others collasped and sought to find some much needed sleep.

DAY 6: MATCH 1 - Whangarei Boys High school

EXCUSES ASIDE - WE PLAYED WELL

We met at the school and prepared for an 11:00am kick-off. A fair few numbers came to watch the match including Mr Gyde’s parents.

After the match we gathered in their common room and sat smartly in our full dress to listen to welcoming speeches by their headmaster, coaches and captain.

Andy Woolgar, our captain, said a few words on our behalf. There was an exchange of presents and gifts, as well as a book commemorating their centenary which was given to us for our library.

A snack followed and then we were led to the visual aids room to see Father Nin’s film of the match. It was interesting to say the least, with room for improvement and not a bad effort for someone who had only just started his filming career.

We return to our hosts and in the evening a party was given in honour of our team. The party dwindled between 12:00 - 1:00am  and everyone returned home sober.

FINAL SCORE: CAMPION 6:8 Whangarei Boys High (L)

Scorers: Paul Nolan (Try), C. Williams (Conversion)

KICK OFF: 11:00AM

Conditions: Firm under foot, light frost, drying away

TEAM:

MATCH REPORT:

We got off to a good start and held our ground while we settled into the game. Our forwards were ready and after they worked their first few balls, we took all the rest against the head, as well as ours. The back took a while to get into the game and there were a few handling problems to begin.

Then from a maul from under our rugby posts they moved the ball out to their wings where they created an overlap and went over for a try. The conversion was missed and the game restarted.

Chris Williams missed a penalty, but any disappointed was lost when Paul Nolan received the ball just outside our own 22 from a good catch and pass by Greg Dunseath and the counter attack was on. Man after man was beaten and Paul went over for a try under the posts to be converted by Chris Williams.

Half Time score - winning 6-4

The second half was frustrating. Replacement followed replacement and numerous opportunities were missed then the opposition dived over from a line-out on our line to make it 8-6 in their favour.

The conversion was missed with 15 minutes remaining

Two more penalties were missed and as the whistle approached our backs came alive. Several good moves, including a burst in the centre from Sean White broke down and the final whistle blew.

Disappointment, anger and frustration written over 29 faces.

OPPOSITION COMMENTS ON THE GAME

After the match their two trainers gave their comments saying they thought we were a strong side and were impressed with our backs, especially when they went into detail.

They mentioned our rucking and mauling in particular. We realised that there was room for improvement and their coaching would be interesting anyway, so we asked if they would take us on Monday morning.

Quite honestly our forward didn’t think that their rucking was outstanding and were a bit apprehensive going into the session if their forwards didn’t put what they were taught into practice.

Later Saturday evening, their centre came up to me and told me that we hoped our backs wouldn’t be taught by their coaches. he said that we didn’t need coaching or not from them anyway and although they had trouble with Australian backs, ours were the best they’d seen.

DAY 7: TELL THEM ABOUT THE HAngi MUMMY!!

Father Nin said Mass in the library at 9:30am and as well as our side, there was a good turnout from our hosts. Father told us that this was because they had been promised a shorter mass than anywhere else.

After mass, a meeting was held and their school rugby coach, a Maori, kindly said that he’d put down a Hāngi for us that evening!    

A What?!!

The obvious phrase followed – “Tell them about the Hāngi mummy!”

The middle part of the day was spent with our hosts. Various events took place. Most people went to the local beaches, some went shooting or archery and guess where Fergus was? Sailing – would you believe. He told us afterwards that although there was drink aboard and in the Yacht club, he only  had 3 pints (but who was to say how much rum!).

At 7:15pm the Hangi was taken out. The Hāngi (pronounced Hungy with a silent g) is a Maori traditional way of cooking food. A pit is dug, about 3ft deep and rocks, which have been heated until they are red hot, are placed at the bottom. Individual meals of various meats and vegetables are wrapped in foil and placed in a basket above the rocks. A film of polythene is then placed over and the earth placed back over. It is then left for 2-3 hours. The principal behind the method is exactly the same as cooking with a pressure cooker.

Before the Hāngi is removed, the earth is steaming and feels warm. The food had a taste of its own and like all food, some boys liked it, some didn’t.  I learnt afterwards that my host had gone down to the fish and chip shop whilst we were eating!!

We left school about 9:30pm and an early night was had by most.

DAY 8 - LEAVE Whangarei AND ARRIVE aucklanD

A GOOD DEPARTURE AND AN UNEXPECTED ROOF FOR THE NIGHT

The boys began their school day at 8:30am and we were not far behind them beginning our training session.

As our forwards learnt how to scrummage the fact that the opposition only won three balls out of twelve on their own put in was forgotten. We trained beside them as their backs approached Mr Davies anxious to learn anything they could. They said that usually they’re forgotten in preference to their forwards.

After a shower we left from a good farewell by the school. Unfortunately we had to miss their assembly that we were warmly invited to attend.

As we drove, we passed what looked like a cow pasture with a most rudimentary set of rugby posts leaning at a very drunken angle.

Our host said with a beautiful dead-pan deliver - 'Oh!, that's where Sid Going plays his rugby'.

J.D. just could not believe it.

It was a four hour drive to Wesley College where we found a boy to welcome us with sorrow written all over his face. Our ‘little buddy’ told us that we were staying in the dorms and only the staff were being billeted. We sympathised with him, naturally!

After a meal with the boarders we had a meeting with our opposition at 8:30pm. The welcome was a good one, if 4 hours late.

DAY 9: TOUR OF AUCKLAND

SUN THEM UP and a tour of auckland

We woke at 7am and had breakfast at 7:30am. The meals are worse that school here (if it’s possible!). As our breakfast was quietly bring rejected by our stomaches we prepared for a training session at 9:15am. watched from the school we had a light session including touch rugby.

A tour into “Auckland followed lunch (two fish cakes ands a piece of bread!)

After making full use of his quiet approach JT put a Lee Cooper sticker on a traffic warden’s back.

in McDonalds, while we caught up on our lunch and prepared ourselves to miss tea, laugh followed laugh.

Leanne, the friendly green-eyed girl behind the counter, wrote messages to us on the backs of ashtrays (under much force and after lots of persuasion). Then there was the fancy for the Ronald McDonald pens. JT, with his charm and smile, was slipped two while Andy W had to resort to the story that his brother was on his death bed and for his last request he wanted a McDonalds pen. This was the less effective method but was eventually rewarded.

The, what walked in? A thin, medium height girl with blue hair - but that was not all. She was accompanied by Richard Parker.

No honestly (hair aside) she was a nice girl.

It was half three. Everyone was assembled…except Fergus, pat & Rich.

It doesn’t take too much imagination to guess where they’d been, but what a poor excuse as they said they had to carry Fergus back - when they returned, they were fined!

The evening meal was cold pie and mash, but luckily they couldn’t spoil the tinned peaches.

An early night followed.

DAY 10: MATCH 2 - WESLEY COLLEGE

A HARD BUILD UP - ALL WORTH WHILE

The lights were subtlety turned on at 7am and another of those breakfasts awaited us. At 8:45am some boys attended the school assembly which was followed by a meeting when the team was announced.

The morning was a quiet one. each person prepared individually for the game. In their common room most boys played pool or snooker and with the skill shown by some Mr Davies came out with the comment that “…it was the sign of an ill spent youth…”

After an early lunch we prepared for the game.

The camp was alive after the match and even the meals got better.

We had fish and chips - a traditional NZ meal I was told.

At the end of the meal one elder boy stood up and said grace, “…may the Lord make us truly thankful…”

Crash, Bang, Wallop (a traditional school boy rush)

In the evening the Maori representatives from the school gave us a cultural evening, including some of their dances. It was an impressive display and we were glad they hadn’t done it before the match!!.

It’s all on video for those at home, together with today’s match. We watched it in their common room in between power cuts.

FINAL SCORE: CAMPION 30:14 WESLEY COLLEGE (W)

Trys: C White (2), K Leaver (1), C Duhig (1), D Brookes (1)
Drop Goal: J King
Penalties: C Williams (1)
Conversions: C Williams (3)

KICK OFF: 2:30pm

CONDITIONS: OVERCAST, WINDY BUT FIRM (SNOWY)

MATCH REPORT:

We got off to a good start and the pressure was on them immediately as we penetrated their line.

An early penalty form Chris Willy was shortly followed by a try from Kev Leaver out near the corner flag. It was naturally converted (we never doubted Chris wouldn’t get it!)

Then they began running the ball and their backs were meaty, believe me. Their legs were like tree trunks (not like, they were). They made a couple of crash runs in the centre and sometimes it took two or three to stop them. Led on by Barry the forwards were all round the park and won all the ball on their put in and sometimes pushing the opposition some feet.

Handling in the backs was good and soon Dom Brooks went over to make it 13-0.

Then, just before half time,, one of their crash balls in the centre from a second phase move led to a try under the posts - which was converted

The half time whistle blew - the half time score was 13-6 to Campion.

A change in the front five and a shuffle around in the backs brought us near their line again under the captaincy of Andy again. Chris Duhig scored and, after a successful conversion, the score had raised to 19-6.

Then they scored a try and the pressure was on us. A timely drop goal from John king boosted the score and our momentum. the opposition had a kick over try, but it was closely followed by a nice bit of support work down the middle putting Chris White over for a try under the posts. The conversion was missed!!

Then came the outstanding shock move of the day as Pat made a ten yard burst into their twenty two. Finally, in the closing minutes from five yards out from the line Chris White went over in the corner for his second try.

NB: On the side, we used a Mitre ball, which we’re more used to in handling and kicking (for Chris) mainly because Andy W told the ref that they were sponsoring us!!

OPPOSITION COMMENTS ON THE GAME

Firstly they were impressed with the deep alinement of our backs and the speed at which we moved the ball out.

However the most impressive part of our play, in their opinion, was the support our pack and back gave to any more that was started off.

The also confirmed that they too saw Pat’s run!!

their GAME

Their backs were well built and strong runners, keen on the crash ball. They were certainly better than those of the Whangerei Boys

In the pack they had a lot of weight in the front five with a 6’5” lock and well built. Their set pieces were better than the previous school and they were winning 90% of their ball in the scrummage, all of their line-out ball - as well as some of ours.

Their passing in the back was fairly good, but when they were looking for support, several passes were wild. The general feeling was that the level of skill was higher, but they lacked the aggression that Whangerei Boys possessed.

TEAM:

DAY 11: NEW PLYMOUTH

WHAT A DAY TO HAVE A BIRTHDAY

Wednesday ended as Thursday began when, under the illusion that everyone had forgotten his birthday, the whole party threw Andy S into a cold bath.

Following this ordeal he was then smothered from head to waist in showering cream!! This was amongst numerous jokes played on everyone.

That is all, except Rich M who slept through it all. There were signs of relief as everyone settled down to sleep but some felt more hard done by - namely Fergus and Pat.

Everyone rose again at 7am and were glad that it was the last day of this torment. As it happened everyday, people found themselves still in bed when matron came round at 7:15am. A mad rush then followed to make breakfast by 7:30am.

We left at 8:30am after saying our farewells to the boys. There were birthday greetings for Andy all round in the coach. Pat gave is all a map of New Zealand to follow and to eventually work out how far we had travelled.

Our first stop on our journey brought us to ‘Cooks Wines’ - the main wine producing company in NZ. A representative showed us around the factory and laboratories and it proved to be most interesting, enjoyable and amusing. After tasting two of their wines and being given a snack to eat, we continued our journey, stopping for lunch in a small town.

A heavy fining was given to some as we gathered after lunch, but they didn’t go down without protests (mentioning no names - Pat!!)

The glow worm grotto and the Waitomo caves were next on our itinerary. A slight detour enabled us to see some fantastic caves and give us all an experience that we may never get again. At the lowest depth of the cave the lights were turned off and we were able to see a mass of lights on the ceiling. A boat journey along an underground stream showed us these glow worms in a greater abundance. The river led to the outside and from there the coach continued its journey.

Just before we reached New Plymouth we took a break for tea at a cafe (owned by probably by another of Pat’s relations)

In New Plymouth it wasn’t long before we found the school and there was a little delay between arriving and being billeted.

The process of getting to know someone new again and to answer and ask the same questions began….again. Finally we were told the match was postponed until Saturday - which suited everyone

DAY 12: A WET TRAINING SESSION

WORK-OUT BEFORE THE PRESS

Most people began the day with a lie-in. It was a school holiday and there was no immediate rush. Arrangements had been made to train and a rugby ground ten miles away since it was nearer than the school for most people.

Everyone made their way to Inglefield Rugby Club, where we were to train, but it was ‘teaming’ down with rain.

We decided that it would be a short session, but a hard one. The conditions were extremely wet, but the press saw a good session.

A team photograph followed interviews with Mr Davies, Father Nin and Andy.

As we worked the opposition’s coach and a few other members from their school watched,

We returned to a hot shower and the team was announced in the changing room.

It was 3:15pm and our billets took us back to their homes.

Ironic fact of the day - Guess where Fergus was staying - yes, a pub!!

The rest of the day was left to us, but an early night was asked for from our coach.

DAY 13: MATCHDAY 3 - Francis Douglas College

It was a lazy morning and everyone made their way to Francis Douglas School by 12:30pm, with kick off set for 1:30pm.

As we met we discussed the article that had appeared in the morning paper.

After the match the school gave us some tea before we returned to our billets.

In the evening we all gathered at 7:00pm for a function laid on by their school

It was a very well organised evening with a hot meal prepared by some ladies who had been brought in specially. After the meal there were the speeches from Andy and their captain and coach.

Following the speeches table tennis tables were brought out and bowling mats, The evening continued in an excellent spirit but what Mr Davies said afterward was quite true

“I’ve been to thousands of receptions after games and it’s never quite the same unless you win!”

Everyone went home towards midnight

FINAL SCORE: CAMPION 9:10 Francis Douglas College (L)

Try: Paul Nolan (1) / Conversion: Chris Williams (1) / Penalty: Chris Williams (1)

KICK-OFF: 1:30PM

CONDITIONS: VERY GOOD, SOFT GROUND, RAIN TOWARDS THE END

TEAM:

MATCH REPORT:

We set off to a very good start. A kick through from a drop-out on their twenty two led to a try by Paul Nolan after the ball bounced luckily off the post. From then on the pressure was on us. They were in our half for most of the game. It was not long before they span it out and put their winger over for a try in the corner. After they missed the conversion we  narrowly led 6-4.

The rest of the first half was very frustrating, as Chris Williams missed two penalties. No blame attached, as they were either from the half way line or out by the touch line.

Just before half time they scored a penalty and we were down 

Half time score: Losing 7-6

The story in the second half was very much the same. The pressure was on us from the restart until Chris Williams scored a penalty to retake the lead 9-7 – game on!!

After that it was lucky that we didn’t lose by more, as they missed two penalties that would have given them the lead.

Then, as we went to take the resulting drop-out, a decision of time wasting was given against us, but thanks to their Second Row forward, who knocked over Chris Williams, as he went to retrieve the ball, the decision was reversed.  Controversial to say the least!

With their incentive raised they came back, but a high tackle by Campion gifted them a kickable penalty – which they took full advantage of, making the score 10-9 to them. 

Then the final whistle went – the general feeling in our camp was that we had played pretty badly.

THEIR GAME

They were a fairly strong side and tackled everything in sight. With this in their favour we weren’t given a chance to show our flare in the backs. Any move that was started was quickly stopped when one of our men was brought down.

Their rucking was quite good, but often they lost the ball in the mauls. They held their own in the scrums and won one against the head – however Barry Deane took three against the head.

When they ran the ball in the backs the handling let them down in the centre occasionally and a greater pressure was put on our players when they kicked over our line.

All in all they played very much our game

OUR GAME

As I mentioned our running play never really got going but the few times it did we looked quite dangerous. A couple of times a misunderstanding in the backs led to a breakdown,

The forwards won little ball in the line-outs in the first half but this improved in the second. Rain didn’t really affect our handling and Sean White had a very good game, catching practically everything in sight.

During the game Hawera looked on and they couldn’t have been impressed by our play although they were told that we had some very large fast looking forwards. We heard later that they were feeling confident about Tuesday’s game and they thought that they’d ‘lick us’.

 Francis Douglas beat them by one point recently and told us that we could beat them.

DAY 14: Hawera

A WELL ORGANISED WELCOME - MUCH APPRECIATED

Sunday morning.

We all made our own way to mass and a special welcome was given by the Monsignor at New Plymouth cathedral

As we gathered along the route and were in turn picked up, we made our way to Hawera 

It was a short journey only taking about an hour. On our arrival our billets were all waiting for us. It was extremely nice to be organised and the welcome, although they said the official welcome was until tomorrow. Have to say it was much improved on our arrival at Wesley College  

Typed sheets (see on right), with list of our billets were handed out and the itinerary for the next few days – a welcome relief on the next step of our journey

DAY 15: HANGI DINNER

A FOUL DAY ND NO MOUNTAIN ANYWHERE!

The day began when we assembled outside the hall. We were very soon to be welcomed by the whole school and some boys didn’t know what to expect. Then the time was upon us and we had to march to the front of the hall past the body of the senior school After giggle from the girls the head boy gave us a very good welcome.

The school orchestra had to follow this. This was a very interesting experience - apart from the leader breaking his A string and a rasp from the trombone (very nice, but in wrong place) – it was a good performance and something different to what we were used to.

After this tremendous welcome from the school the Maori club gave us their unique welcome.

Since the weather was foul and we were unable to visit the mountain the Maori welcome was extended to their full repertoire. Everyone thoroughly enjoyed this and many laughs were had all round when we tried to join in.

Then came the hard training in gusty, miserable conditions – it wasn’t meant to be this way! 

Following this we were shown round a very interesting museum. It was a one-man effort by the art master depicting scenes from the history of the surrounding region

On returning to the school we saw the video of Saturday’s game. (I’m glad I wasn’t playing – nasty comments were flying about everyone – although I think we needed it)

In the evening we were the guests at the coach’s home where he was preparing a Hangi. There were fifty of us and boys being boys we had a great time. Party games included the spoon game, the three man lift and the aeroplane flight.

However the Headmaster’s daughter was the centre of any conversation (I can’t say anymore because I’m billeted with her and she’ll read all of this). I can say that over the two days many things were said to her that were interesting. I’d like to quote them all but it would be stepping into risky territory. One boy said, when she asked him for a dance – “I only dance the smoochy ones!” (Sound familiar Andy W?

DAY 16: MATCH 4 - HAWERA HIGH SCHOOL

A WIN BOOSTS EVERYTHING

Everyone gathered at the school by 9:00am and some opted to watch some coaching videos.

Others, including myself I confess, stayed in bed and joined the others later.

At 11:00am Liz and some of her friends prepared a meal for us and the staff. It was a filling meal, the main course being soup with an entrée of a roll.

 Attractions once again included our host Liz and some confusion arose between the girls and Andy W over the difference between a fork and a spoon. We finished our soup and spent the remaining half hour watching the staff eat their four course meal or playing the girls up.

The match began at 1pm and the whole school came out to watch the first half. Graeme Mourie was supposed to have made an appearance, but he couldn’t make it. The second half was left to the players to supply the noise after the crowd left. The press from The Daily News and The Taranaki Herald  made their appearance and the Francis Douglas team boosted out support.

After the match a fine tea was laid on by the parents and girls with the speeches following. Andy stood up and began…..

“When William Web Ellis….” - everyone thought ‘Hello new speech?’ We didn’t think so somehow and the normal speech was soon resumed. 

Following the tea everyone returned to their billets to prepared themselves for the social.

Boy, was it a social – heaving music, nice and loud with lots of drink.

However the music was heavy, heavy metal and the drink was coke!!

As boys met girls, centres of conversation varied from the bad music to flying!! (the later conversations getting more results). Despite the music though a lot of work went into decorating the hall and hiring the band and our appreciation had to be shown.  

At 11pm the hall cleared and some of us went on to a party held by their hooker, Justin Brown. That was a completely different kettle of fish!. Women and drink were readily available until 12:20am when we crept home.

It was just my luck though to have to return to the Headmaster’s House where I discovered JD Davies and Father Ninan having a party of their own. Do you think I could creep in? No such luck!!

FINAL SCORE: CAMPION 18:6 Hawera Boys High School (W)

Try: Dominic Brooks (2) / Conversions: Chris Williams (2) / Penalty: Chris Williams (1) / Drop Goal: Paul Nolan (1)

kick-off: 1:00pm

CONDITIONS: VERY GOOD, FIRM: FAIRLY WARM

TEAM:

MATCH REPORT

The game got underway with a couple of hundred eyes watering. It must have been this that held us back. Although they were small they came at us hard and put as much pressure on us as they could.

They scored an early try from a high kick in front of the posts, and duly added to that with the conversation. A penalty kick from Chris Williams brought the score back to 6-3 – which was how it finished after the first half.

HALF TIME SCORE: LOSING 6-3 

In the second half they were missing their flanker (their captain) and hooker. A later, further loss restricted them to 14 players. However, with the reduced crowd and large cheers from the Francis Douglas boys we began to put on the points.  

Firstly a Number * pick up from Dom Brooks gave us our first try, which was converted.

Dom Brooks was at it again, as he scored when the forwards went over with ten minutes to go. The score was now 15-6 in our favour. Then in the last few minutes Paul Nolan scored a drop goal from the twenty-two which made his game total 3 and put his touring points up to 11 

THEIR GAME

These boys must have taught us that sized didn’t matter. With an average age of 17 and weight less than ours they played their hardest. At times they looked dangerous, their strongest point being their loose play.

After the match, in their speeches, their reason for our win was strongly put down to the fact we were larger. 

OUR GAME

Generally it was a better performance than we put up against Francis Douglas. Our backs were given more chances to run the ball and they admitted that we looked dangerous.

Several people said that Chris Thomas looked dangerous on the crash ball. 

The forwards,  with their extra weight (but minus Andy W), got it together better, but it still didn’t seem tight enough in the loose play.

John captained well and gave us our second tour victory.

IN THE PRESS

Visiting English School rugby team Campion beat Hawera High School’s first XV 18-6 at Hicks Park Hawera yesterday.

This was the second win for Campion during its North Island tour. It beat Auckland’s Wesley High School 30-14, but lost to Whangerei Boys’ High School 8-6 and New Plymouth’s Francis Douglas Memorial College 10-9.

The visitors play Palmerston North on Saturday, which it regards as the highlight of the tour in New Zealand, and then will play in Gisborne, Napier and Wellington.

Our London visitors, The Campion School, had a good win over Hawera High

The big pack had too much power, but Hawera was faster to the loose ball.

Hawera scored first, Dean Remihana crossing and then converting. Campion came back with a penalty and No. 8 Dominic Brooks scored from a pushover and later got another try.

Paul Nolan added a dropped goal. Chris Thomas and Nolan were the best backs.

day 17: Palmerston

IN TRANSIT BY ROAD AND SEA

We gathered outside Hawera High School at 8:30am and were given a good send-off. Parents, school boys and girls who we met the night before all waved as we departed for Palmerston North

After an hour or so we reached Wanganui and the river we were to travel on. One after another we climbed into the Jet boats with our life jackets on,. It was a nippy day and cold enough to freeze what wasn’t covered.

We travelled up the river at 30 knots taking in the scenery and the cold air. The ride was fun itself.

Our lunch break was at a Maori settlement. After a few sandwiches and some scenic photographs we climbed back into the jet boats for the return journey.  With the current now behind us, the return was much quicker. 

Once back in Wanganui we visited the local museum which housed the finest canoe of the Maori tribes. The historian there even opened some cases taking out a heads which had been smoked so that the skin and hair were still intact!!

Following this we visited a tower which was 100ft high and rose 375ft above sea level. Although, after the many stairs, we did begin to wonder whether it was worth it! 

In the coach, en-route to Palmerston North, we read the local newspaper cuttings. It was decided that we have to pay to speak with Chris W.

We finally arrived at Palmerston North at 6pm to play our return fixture.

We were met at the gate by the captain of their 1st XV – a 6’ 4” / 17 stone boy with a face which looked like it had been rucked over in many a game – dressed in a school blazer and shorts!

Although it looked odd, it seemed (if anything) to make him look even bigger and more menacing - No-one dared laugh.

Following a short wait, while the doctor kindly got some cough medicine for the sick, we went home with our billets.

DAY 18

GRAB A PARTNER BY THE HAND

This must have been one of the most memorable days on the tour.

We left the boys school at 9:15am for St Peters. It was here we had to find a partner for the ball.  

Over morning tea (or rather foul coffee) we were swarmed by girls. Subtlety we were made to get to know them as they showed us round the school. However the general feeling on leaving was that, bar one (maybe two) they weren’t ……..!

After this amusing event we were taken around a scenic route by bus. We travelled through ‘The Gorge’ and over the regional hills.

At 2pm, after a stroll in town (including a visit to the D.I.C. Store), we commenced on a hard two hour training session.

Ill-fortune struck when Andy W, recovering from a shoulder injury, dislocated his knee 

That evening, we returned to our billets after a most amusing, interesting and tiring day.

Evening activities included Possum shooting and ‘Who can get the most thrills out of driving at 110m/h on the back of a truck’

DAY 19

PATRICIA’S BIRTHDAY

The day began with birthday wishes for Pat, as we gathered outside the hall. Suddenly someone said “JD’s on the radio”. We all rushed into the nearest newsagents asking for a radio. When all we could find on it was music we settled for that and started a disco on the shop floor!!

The coach arrived and we were soon at Paraorangi, the Catholic Maori school. They gave us a very good welcome and after their Haka we sang ‘Jerusalem. we were shown around the school then we had a short training session before they gave us lunch.

A trip to the rugby museum was at 2pm and this proved to be extremely interesting. We bought a book on New Zealand rugby for Pat and gave him a ‘This is Your Life’ presentation.

At 5pm we saw a film of the greatest tries, they were good, but almost everyone was by an All Black!! Ww had to miss the last hour and a half of the film when we were rushed off to a social at the local R.F.C. Parents and boys were there from the EWorld Tour in 1979 together with their present 1st XV and ours.

While Ian Colqushon tried to overfeed and drink us we limited ourselves and enjoyed the evening. The speeches and presentation were made and Andy had a new speech!

DAY 20: MATCH 5 - Palmerston North Boys High School

You do that and you’re out!

The day began when the team met up at the school. It was one and there was some time to have a meeting. The match was at two thirty and quite a crowd came to the game.

After the match we were left with our billets until the ball. We could tell from the start it was going to be good because the rugby team weren’t going! As we assembled in the staff room and quickly rushed to ask a girl since the worse were yet to come.

Then came the rules

1. No smooching (as Mr Davies put it)

2. No girls on laps

3. No holding hands

If any rules were broken then the person would be sent home immediately and be caned the following day. After all this you can imagine it was a fantastic evening, although the best came when the ball finished at midnight and the late night parties (you can ask Andy about that!)

FINAL SCORE: CAMPION 0:42 Palmerston North Boys High School (L)

FOR: A little less than none | AGAINST: More than numerous

KICK-0FF: 2:30PM

CONDITIONS: GOOD TO START; SHOWERY AND OVERCAST BY END

TEAM:

MATCH REPORT:

An easy drop goal by the opposition started their domination. This was followed by another before they scored the first of many tries. At half time they were 17-0 up.

HALF TIME SCORE: LOSING 17-0 

This continued, but our forwards didn’t give up. Once again we held our own in the scrum with a couple against the head and vice-versa

IN THE PRESS:

Palmerston North proved far too strong for an injury weakened Campion side, winning 42-0.

The big home pack dominated and eight tries, two dropped goals and tow conversions made up the tally.

This was the second meeting of the two schools, the first being on the 1976 world tour by PNBHS when it also beat Campion.

Coach Ian Colquhoun suggested Campion come out on tour and it has taken two years to plan the trip.

THEIR GAME

They came at us hard putting down every first tackle from any move. They physiologically beat us in the way they were at all the breakdowns, line-outs and scrums first. When someone tackles you hard, you don’t feel like jumping up and supporting a move and this is exactly what they did.

When they came up from a scrum or maul they knew which way the ball was going out just by calls. We however, got up looked around and then ran, This way they were quicker covering across and supporting. Mr Davies said that he’s never learnt so much from one game. When he said, “They didn’t beat us, they walked all over us” - we all knew it was true,

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?

Naturally we try to learn the lessons and put into practice what we’ve seen.

It cant all be done for the next game. However Mr Davies told us that he can’t wait for next season and that everyone returning for next season will train like they’ve never done before.

DAY 21: WELLINGTON

FORGET THE ‘LOVED ONES’ - THINK ABOUT THE GAME

At ten thirty Father McNamara said mass at the cathedral . Apart from referring to Palmerston North as a town everything went well. He presented to a full church including the boarders from the school.

After mass there was a long wait at the bus garage for our driver. At 1:15pm we finally departed, waving to our ‘loved ones’. It was a 21/2hour drive to Wellington where we were billeted with the day boys at the school.

It was another of those days in transit (something that’s more than mechanical now)

The highlight of the day was Mr Davies radio interview - the subject of the interview went from rugby compared to football (soccer) at the school and our tour in general

DAY 22: COLLEGE TOUR WITH FARMING DEMONSTRATION

ANDY - SHEEP SHEARER EXTRAORDINAIRE!!

Wellington, Silverstream and Andy Woolgar's efforts to shear a sheep.

At the end, the shepherd took one look at all the gashes, quietly oozing blood on the sheep's hide and said 'Just too much damage: no good now: just have to butcher it'. Having said this he picked the sheep up, walked outside with it and cut it's throat.

We never let Andy Woolgar forget that he had the death of that sheep on his conscience. 

DAY 23: MATCH 6 - St. Pats’ Memorial College

FINAL SCORE: CAMPION 3:23 st pats memorial college (L)

Penalty: Chris Williams

KICK-OFF: 2:30PM

CONDITIONS: VERY GOOD, FAIR WITH A STRONG WIND

TEAM:

MATCH REPORT:

IN THE PRESS:

St Pat’s (Silverstream) had too much pace in the backs and its tackling cut off any attempts at breaks by Campion.

Playing several reserves because of injury, Campion was never in the game, but showed it could scrummage well in the set play.

Captain Andrew Woolgar is a splendid prop and an England trialist and there were others who will develop well for the tour experience

For Silverstream: Tries by Graham Diedrichs (2), Dermot Ryan, Kurt Finnigan and Dennis Tockers with Tocker adding three conversions and a penalty.

WellingtoN

EDEN PARK

Eden Park is New Zealand's largest sports stadium.

Located in central Auckland, New Zealand's largest city, it is three kilometres southwest of the CBD, on the boundary between the suburbs of Mount Eden and Kingsland.

Although used primarily for rugby union in winter and cricket in summer, it has hosted rugby league and football matches.

Although we were invited to visit, we were not allowed to train on the actual pitch - that is reserved for the All Blacks - so we took to the dead ball area for a little light bit of fun.

ROTURUA

GisboUrne

Andy Woolgar's efforts to shear a sheep.

At the end, the shepherd took one look at all the gashes, quietly oozing blood on the sheep's hide and said 'Just too much damage: no good now: just have to butcher it'. Having said this he picked the sheep up, walked outside with it and cut it's throat.

We never let Andy Woolgar forget that he had the death of that sheep on his conscience. 

Campion School

FINAL SCORE: CAMPION (UK) 12:9 Campion (NZ) (w)

MATCH REPORT

AUCKLAND

“Yes, it was a great experience even if we did not have too many wins,” said Campion coach John Davies before the party left for three days in Los Angeles and Honolulu on their way home.

HOMEWARD BOUND

in the press

RUGger boys see the world!

Romford Recorder - Published 3rd Sept 1982

riots…an earthquake…and a stabbing

A party of Hornchurch school boys returned from a six-week rugby tour last week with more than a few stories to tell their parents.

Campion School’s New Zealand rugby tour turned into an action packed thriller with an attempted coup taking place at a village they stayed on the New French Caledonian Island, an earthquake in Napier, New Zealand and a stabbing near their Los Angeles hotel.

Sixth former Chris Thomas, 18, was in the hotel when the coup attempt was staged.

He said, “There was a big meeting in the town square and then riots broke out all around our hotel. Bricks were thrown and tear gas used by riot squads to stop people trying to get into the Government offices. The other boys were on the beach training, but I had a torn hamstring. I saw some men running around with armfuls of pick-axes giving them out to people. I was taken from the hotel by troops armed with tear gas to the bus depot, where I met the rest of the party and our luggage, and we were taken to the airport and flown straight out.”

EXCITEMENT

A few weeks later in the middle of their rugby programme of eight games, against tough New Zealand opposition, there was an earthquake that measured 4.9 on the Richter scale.

But the boys carried on with the tour like true sportsmen and emerged victors of 4 games.

Then came the chance for them to relax with a holiday in Los Angeles on the way home. But even that was not without its excitement - for some of the boys witnessed a stabbing at a nearby motel used by local prostitutes.

Paul Nolan, 17, said: “There was a man arguing outside with some of the hookers about money.. He threw a knife at a woman and more women came out of the hotel with knives and stiletto shoes and tried to wreck his car. He got back in, tried to run them all down and finally left, so we went back to our refreshments.”

CREDITS

Special thanks to those that have provided their memories and photos to compile this record of the tour, especially

• #01: Father Ninian McNamara (via subsequent tour brochures)

• #28: Andy Woolgar

• #10: Andrew Headon

• #22: Chris Thomas