Eli scores sole scholarship to elite rugby programme

Year 13 rugby captain Eli Carter has been selected for the International Rugby Academy of New Zealand's Advanced Players Course —and was also named as the sole recipient of the programme’s scholarship.

Out of the more than 350 under 20 year olds from across the country, only 30 were offered placement into the course dedicated to coaching and high-performance athlete development. After reviewing his CV and an hour long interview, Eli was chosen for the sole scholarship will cover flights, accommodation, and tuition at an intensive one-and-a-half week training camp held in Upper Hutt, Wellington.

“I was just proud to be accepted,” says Eli. “To find out I was the only one awarded the scholarship—I was speechless.”

Eli, who is co-captain of Avondale's 1st XV Rugby team, has played across key backline positions including first five-eighth, halfback, and fullback. Known for his tactical playmaking, communication, and ability to create opportunities for teammates, he credits his composure and focus during goal-kicking to solo sessions at his childhood rugby club.

"I envision myself back at my old rugby club, training by myself, focussing on staying composed and not letting the crowd distract me."

His rugby aspirations reach beyond the playing field. Eli hopes to one day become a professional player and ultimately transition into coaching. He’s already begun laying the foundation for that dream, mentoring younger players on his team, coaching non-contact forms of the game, and completing a refereeing course to deepen his understanding of rugby’s rules and strategies. He's in talks to complete a year-long Pro Sport course after school ends.

Inspired by former All Blacks captain Richie McCaw, close friend and former All Black Michael Jones and his Under 15s Coach Tau Mauga, Eli draws from strong leadership examples both internationally and locally. At Avcol's recent Open Evening, he spoke to prospective students about the importance of foundational training and making the most of early development opportunities.

“I’m looking forward to training like a pro and learning from the best,” he said. “I’d encourage anyone who’s passionate about rugby to apply for this opportunity.”