Monday 19 October 2026
An exceptionally brave effort to qualify for the National Condors competition in December (by being in the top four schools) fell agonisingly short with a try in the final minute against De La Salle College (DLS) being the difference between fourth and fifth place.
The draw was tough on both sides of the pools with a number of teams fancying their chances of qualification for Nationals (Condors). King’s first challenge was local rivals, DLS. King’s College started very strong and a runaway by Robbie Tahi (Year 11, St John's) was followed by a well-taken touch down by Felix Spary (Year 13, Selwyn). With both tries converted (by Ruka Smythe (Year 13, Parnell) and Spary respectfully) the 14–0 halftime lead was a good reflection of King’s dominance.
This trend of dominance continued in the second half, with DLS scoring a lucky intercept before James Shaw (Year 13, School) scored a try from a close distance. The 19–7 scoreline with 3 minutes to go, and the majority of possession, seemed enough to get us through. But two converted tries, the last after the final hooter, would end up costing King’s College more than just this result.
With four round-robin games, there was no time for over-analysing and the boys bounced back very well with a 42–0 victory over Botany Downs Secondary College. Tries were scored by Robbie Tahi, Bassy Tupou (Year 13, Selwyn), Ricoh Wilson (Year 12, Greenbank), Naki Kea-Cameron (Year 11, Selwyn) and an incredible hat-trick by Leo Kirkland (Year 13, Selwyn)
The next game was against eventual winners, Kelston Boys' High School — unsurprisingly hot favourites for the title. King’s were up for the challenge, and Tupou scored a ripper down the sideline. Spary converted successfully, which led to the 7–12 halftime scoreline. To start the second half, Robbie Tahi ran the length of the field only to be scragged fifteen metres from the line and throw the ball inside — a certain try, and the lead unfortunately dropped while catching at full pace. Kelston scored two further tries to take the game 7–26.
Our final pool game against St Peter's College was a no-contest. While much bigger and very aggressive, King’s played their best game of the day, with ‘Superman’ Leo Kirkland scoring another hat-trick, supported by tries from Robbie Tahi and James Shaw. Successful conversions were kicked by Spary (3) and Wilson, and St Peter's were soundly beaten 33–10!
While disappointing not to qualify for Condors, the short campaign was well supported by parents and it was great to see some staff (Mr Baker, Mr Gale and Mrs Salt) able to get to the event and show their support. A huge thank you to coach Lucky Smythe, who donates his time to both sevens and touch at the college, his expertise was invaluable.
Awards
Most Improved: Bassy Tupou
MVP: Leo Kirkland