Four former New Zealand Warriors players and two ex-coaches have been inducted into the New Zealand Rugby League’s Legends of League.
This group includes prominent players Simon Mannering and Matthew Ridge, both of whom captained the Warriors and the Kiwis during their careers, as well as 1995 foundation player Sean Hoppe and center Nigel Vagana.
Additionally, Frank Endacott, who coached the Warriors in the NRL during the late 1990s, and Nathan Cayless, former Kiwis captain and ex-Warriors New South Wales Cup coach,
have also been honored. These individuals are among 12 new inductees recognized for their contributions to rugby league in New Zealand.
Other inductees include ex-Kiwis Fred Ah Kuoi, Graeme West, and Dane Sorensen, each of whom played a pivotal role in the Kiwis’ successes in the 1980s. The Legends of League
also welcomed three former Kiwi Ferns: Zavana Aranga, Tasha Davie, and Rachel White.
Selection criteria for the Legends of League honor include sustained excellence, leadership, achievements at the international level, and contributions to New Zealand rugby
league. All inductees have been retired for at least five years, a requirement of the Legends of League since its establishment in 1995.