A good start to the tour – all boys and staff present and correct and on time. Check-in was smooth (apart from Jacob's after shave setting off the explosive scanners as we came through security) and all the boys enjoyed a hearty breakfast in the departure lounge.
The boys enjoyed the in-flight movies and seat-back games, or just caught up on missed Zzzzzzzz's after our early start. Staff received praise from other travellers on our flight re the appearance, conduct and manners of both our netballers and rugby boys.
Disembarking proved as problem free as embarking, with the boys doing a great job of getting themselves, their kit and the team kit through immigration, customs and onto the buses smoothly. We then hit peak hour traffic through Auckland and extensive roadworks through Manakau, which slowed our trip, but allowed the boys extra time to savour the musical selection Mr Wallis had arranged for the trip.
It was then straight to Hamilton Old Boys Rugby Club, where ex- All Black and Waikato centre Scott McLeod gave some great words of advice to both the Grammar and St Peter's boys on rugby and life in general. The messages he gave on working to overcome barriers, celebrating your talents and working on your shortcomings, and building trusting relationships in your team mates were very timely. Past 1st XV coach Murray East MC-ed the evening, and past players Jeff and Richie East were there to catch up with the team.
We finished the day with a great team meeting, with Ethan, Ray and Dylan telling the boys what it meant to them to play rugby and particularly 1st XV for Grammar, and what they wanted for themselves and for the team this season. The boys then headed off to bed and / or the end of the Brumbies / Chiefs game on TV.
Team leaders met with Mr Wallis to clarify roles and focus for tomorrow and beyond. They are keen to help build a positive culture within the team.
A sleep in for tomorrow, followed by the Captain's run, before the 30 minute journey to St Peters College for our game Saturday afternoon.
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