Hastings Boys' High School

Hastings Boys' High School is a very proud and strong school established in 1904. We have been fortunate to have the resources available to accommodate a rich and successful rugby programme.

Many of our coaching staff have played rugby at the international level and bring a depth of knowledge of the game from a playing perspective in addition to their coaching credentials.

Hastings Boys' has a long history of sporting success, including on the rugby field. We are consistently competitive at the national secondary schools level.

In 2025, we had 220 players managed by 15 dedicated staff members and 3 community volunteers. Hastings Boys' High School fielded 8 teams across all levels, with the following teams achieving notable success:

1st XV Hurricanes Region Finalists

3rd XV Division 1 Semifinalists

D Grade Division 4 Finalists

F Grade Division 7 Hawke's Bay Champions

We also acknowledge the contribution of our grounds and school support staff whose work ensures our facilities and logistics run smoothly.

First XV head coach, Jason Shoemark, takes a skills-based approach to managing the boys. Catch-pass, tackle, and clean-out are drilled and perfected during training sessions. Breaking down those skills helps the boys understand when they're throwing good passes and when they're not. Mr Shoemark also takes the boys through game analysis to understand the tactical side of rugby.

In addition to the physical aspects, we have outside providers to assist the boys with their mental state of mind and education about nutrition.

Rugby

Teacher in Charge: Hamish Jenkinson

Rugby at Hastings Boys' High School

The 2025 Season

"With more than a quarter of our entire student body involved in rugby, our programme relies on the incredible generosity of our community volunteers and sponsors.

This support makes a real difference, helping our players develop confidence, resilience, and teamwork both on and off the field."

Sponsors

The 6 Pillars of Rugby

Technical, Tactical, Physical, Mental Skills, Nutrition, Leadership

"My coaching philosophy in rugby is skills over structure.

There's no point having an elaborate game plan if they don't have the skills to get the ball to where they need to."

Roll of Honour

2025 Representative Honours