South Auckland’s clean sweep: Leopards, Sea Eagles and Scorpions claim Auckland Rugby League glory
On Sunday 17th at The Trusts Arena, three grand finals were fought and three trophies returned home to South Auckland.
The Ōtāhuhu Leopards, Papakura Sea Eagles and Ōtara Scorpions all rose to the occasion, pulling off a clean sweep that underlined what the south has long known: its players, its clubs, and its communities are the heart of Auckland rugby league.
Leopards end 15-year wait
The Fox Memorial Premiership final was a battle of inches. Ōtāhuhu edged Mt Albert 8–4, a low-scoring grind that felt like it was being played on history itself. Fifteen years had passed since the Leopards last held the shield aloft, but on Sunday, the drought finally broke.
For captain Jamel Hunt, the victory wasn’t just a trophy, it was the culmination of a lifetime in league boots.
“Most of our 2025 team is made up of Otahuhu juniors who dreamed of one day bringing a chip back to our club,” Hunt said. “From looking forward to halftime oranges at Murphy Park, to lifting the Fox shield with my brothers. That’s a core memory that I’ll never forget.”
What made the win sweeter was who delivered it. A group of locals, many of them returning home after stints elsewhere, united in loyalty to the club and the south.
“We all connect on a deeper level knowing that we’re from the braver parts of Auckland… Couldn’t be more proud of the lads who just wanted to bring one back for our hood.”
Sea Eagles rise in the women’s game
If the men’s Fox Memorial final was defined by grit, the women’s Steele Shanks Premiership was lit up by attack. Papakura outscored the Mt Albert Lionesses 32–24, running in tries that reflected both preparation and flair.
Head coach and former Black Fern Krystal Rota said the success wasn’t built on fitness alone, though that was crucial.
“It’s a highly physical and long game being 80 minutes that also requires a lot of thinking to execute game plan and plays,” she said.
But Rota believes the foundation of their premiership was something deeper: trust, connection, and joy.
“I place a lot of emphasis on the team culture and connection, providing a safe space and fun environment for the players to thrive in. Those who feel safe, valued and have fun will play their best footy.”
For her, South Auckland talent has always been special because it grows out of resilience.
“Others come from rough circumstances, facing challenges that could easily hold them back. But instead, they use sport as their outlet, their escape, and their drive forward. That’s why South Auckland continues to raise some of the most gifted and inspiring athletes you’ll ever see.”
Scorpions sting late in Sharman Cup thriller
The day began with the Sharman Cup final: Ōtara Scorpions versus Hibiscus Coast Raiders. It ended in drama, the Scorpions hanging on 22–20 in a game that seemed to teeter on every set of six.
For team manager Shaun Paeu, it was about more than just two points.
“This season’s win is definitely something we are proud of. It is the fulfilment of all the hard work that has gone into our season which started last year in November,” he said.
Behind the scoreboard were months of sacrifice: fathers giving up family time, young men stepping into leadership, endless trainings and late-night packdowns.
“This win is a reminder that every training session, every trip to and from games, every early morning and late night… have all been worth it to see them be great and do great.”
But Paeu also wanted to stress what sets South Auckland apart: the heartbeat of its communities.
“Our communities show up, rain or shine, win or lose, they are there. The talent in South Auckland is made special by the people that surround it… We may not always have plenty in terms of resources or finance, but we definitely have plenty of talent and people in our clubs, teams, staff and communities that get behind and back players to be their greatest.”
South Auckland’s legacy
From morning to evening, South Auckland claimed every trophy on offer. But the story of August 17 was more than silverware, it was about people, culture, sacrifice and pride. It was about a region that continues to produce talent with heart.