After securing the Lochore Cup last season, the Old Golds are setting their sights on the Meads Cup this year. Their Heartland season kicks off in August, coinciding with the 20th anniversary of the provincial league’s current format.
Under the guidance of coach Luke Herden, the Old Golds will return to Whitestone Contracting Stadium, having played at the A&P Showgrounds last year during the construction of the Waitaki Event Centre, which recently opened at Centennial Park.
North Otago is set to face Otago in a preseason match for the Ranfurly Shield in Dunedin on June 16.
The team will begin their Heartland campaign at home against Mid Canterbury on August 15.
They will also host King Country on August 29, Whanganui on September 12, and West Coast on October 3.
Their away fixtures include matches against Buller on August 22, Poverty Bay on September 5, South Canterbury on September 19, and Horowhenua-Kapiti on September 26.
Semifinals are planned for October 10, with the finals following on October 17.
Carl Moon, the interim general manager community for New Zealand Rugby, emphasized that the competition offers significant opportunities for regional rugby players, referees, and support staff.
“The dedication of the players is what truly sets the Heartland Championship apart,” Moon commented.
“Many players juggle full-time jobs, family commitments, and extensive travel each week, often journeying to areas far from their home regions, purely out of love for rugby and a desire to represent their province with pride.”
