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The Pirongia junior rugby prizegiving displayed the third largest junior club in the Waikato. Photo: Andrew Smith

Beginning under the name Alexandra in 1876, Pirongia is now among the 10 oldest in the country and continues to be a sporting stronghold in the Waipā community.

Members now travel from many areas including Hamilton, Kāwhia, Ngāhinapōuri, Ōtorohanga, Te Awamutu and Te Kawa.

The rural club was shortlisted for the award alongside Suburbs Community Sports Club and Hamilton Marist Rugby Football Club.

Following on from a successful year on the field, being named club of the year is another boost in the right direction as they prepare to celebrate 150 years in 2026.

Life member, colt’s manager and former club captain Ross Denize said it was a fantastic achievement and a real reflection of how far our club has come.

“The club is in great shape as we head towards our 150th anniversary next year,” Denize said.

“We now have five senior teams and over 200 juniors – an amazing result for a small country club. Just a few years ago, we had only two senior teams.”

Denize said what makes the club special is the hardworking committees and the strong sense of unity throughout.

“No player or team is above another – we all work together for the good of the club,” Denize said.

“There’s a great sense of camaraderie here and that’s what makes our club such a great place to be.”

It’s been a big year for Pirongia. Their senior B team went through the season unbeaten, taking home the silverware.

Their junior playing base of 220 players made them the third largest junior club in the Waikato and more girls pulled on the Pirongia jersey than ever before.

Senior playing numbers have increased dramatically over the past two years with the introduction of a presidents and women’s team – an increase of 65 per cent.

Their five senior teams – senior A, senior B, colts, presidents and women’s – have helped the playing membership grow from 98 men in 2023 to 117 men and 45 women.

Several representative players also came out of the club this year.

Daniel Belk and Jayden Johnson were in the Waikato Divisional XV.

Belk was a standout for the red, yellow and black side. The winger scored three tries in four starts and took home the best back award.

The sevens team also won the division 1 Suburbs Sevens tournament in early October.

As the Pirongia club looks to the future, they hope to add more avenues to involve everyone.

The original nomination sent into the judges stated they pride themselves on being the hub of their community.

“Our facilities are more than just a rugby ground – they are a gathering place for the Pirongia district, where people connect, celebrate, and support one another,” the nomination said.

“Beyond our weekly rugby commitments, the club is heavily involved in local events and initiatives that strengthen community ties.

“This year, we hosted the Waikato Women’s Barbarians team in a provincial match and were proud to stage the Waikato Divisional v Counties Divisional game, which brought hundreds of people into our community.

“We also successfully hosted the Waipā 7s pre-season tournament, which was extremely well received and provided an excellent showcase of sevens rugby while generating strong community involvement.”