Former Hautapu Sports’ forward James Thompson has capped an impressive NPC season with the Counties Manukau Steelers, winning their top awards for an individual player.
Thompson (25) has carried off the Steelers’ Player of the Year award, as well as the Players’ Player of the Year accolade.
Main photo: James Thompson at the Steelers’ awards function. Photo credit: Counties Manukau Rugby.
A 6′ 5″ forward who can play either as a loose forward or as a lock, Thompson began his rugby career at St Peter’s Cambridge and Hautapu, before entering professional rugby with the Waikato Chiefs, Blues and the Steelers.
He earned selection to the New Zealand U-20 squad in 2019.