A talented Fijian teenager is gaining recognition in the Waikato school district for his impressive athletic abilities. Nathan Jeremiah Stephens, an 18-year-old who arrived in New Zealand earlier this year, has made a significant impact at Hamilton Boys High School, where he was awarded three notable honors at the school’s recent awards ceremony: Māori and Pasifika Sportsman of the Year, Argyle House Sportsman of the Year, and International Rugby Player of the Year.
Displaying his cultural pride, Stephens wore a traditional sulu paired with a dinner jacket as he accepted his awards during the chilly Waikato evening. His journey in rugby traces back to Queen Victoria School, where he played a pivotal role on the U-18 team that secured the Deans Trophy last year.
Cameron Moorby, the school’s director of High-Performance Sports and 15s coach, praised Stephens for his considerable impact at the school, highlighting that he has earned the respect and admiration of coaches, teachers, and staff. Moorby noted that Nathan not only excels on the field but also exemplifies qualities such as compassion and respect off it.
Stephens has established himself as one of the standout outside backs in New Zealand schoolboy rugby, earning selections for teams including the Hamilton Boys’ High School 1st XV, Waikato U18s, Chiefs U18s, and NZ Barbarians U18s. His talents extend beyond rugby; he has also excelled in athletics, winning the Waikato and Bay of Plenty 100m and 200m championships.
This year, he represented New Zealand at the Sanix World Youth Tournament in Japan, where he was honored as the Most Valuable Player for his performance across the two-week event. Currently, he is gearing up to play a significant role in Hamilton Boys’ Premier Sevens team as they prepare for the National Condors event later this month.
As he continues to impress and inspire those around him, both on and off the field, Stephens’s future holds great promise. His dedication and determination serve as a beacon of hope not just for himself but for all young athletes striving to make a mark in their respective sports.
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