Heartland Championship Rugby kicks off today in Waihi, with a rematch of last year’s Meads Cup Final – Thames Valley clashing with Mid Canterbury. 

Thames Valley CEO Scott Penney joined the show ahead of kick-off to chat with Piney about the impact of winning last year’s competition on the province, and their plans to defend the title.  

“We've done a lot in our community to boost numbers and grow rugby within the valleys, but to have the icing on the cake and bring the Meads Cup home was fantastic for everybody involved." 

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