Three Rutherford College students have earned back-to-back selection

Three Rutherford College students have earned back-to-back selection to represent New Zealand at the Junior International Flag Football Cup in Los Angeles. 

Thomas Hollier, Jakob Hollier, and Jett Felix-Croft will pull on the black jersey again this year.

Over the past year, all three have grown considerably as players. 

In 2025, they were central figures in the Metro Lions Junior program, contributing to multiple title wins across both the U15 and U18 divisions. The team finished 2nd at the 2026 National Tournament in the U17 grade. 

Both Jett and Jakob were competing up a grade throughout that campaign, which makes a 2nd place finish a significant result. 

The 3 boys were also part of the 2026 American Football Junior Championship-winning team. That squad scored 144 points across the tournament and conceded only 16. 

Thomas, Jakob, and Jett: Rutherford College is proud of you all.

Good Luck and  Enjoy Los Angeles

by Gill Bloxham