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| Sport | Rugby union |
|---|---|
| Jurisdiction | Manawatū-Whanganui |
| Abbreviation | MRU |
| Founded | 1886 |
| Affiliation | New Zealand Rugby |
| Headquarters | Palmerston North |
| President | Bruce Hemara |
| Chairman | Tyn Myers |
| Director | Barry Roche |
| Official website | |
| www | |
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The Manawatu Rugby Football Union (MRU) serves as the governing body of the sport of rugby union in the Manawatū-Whanganui region of New Zealand.
Founded in 1886, Manawatu is one of New Zealand's oldest rugby unions. In 1892, the MRU, amongst other unions, played a pivotal role in establishing the New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRU). During 1997–1998, Manawatu entered into an amalgamation with Hawke's Bay, as the "Central Vikings", wearing orange and blue attire.
The union is based in the city of Palmerston North though its catchment area includes players and clubs from nearby towns in the province, including Ashhurst, Feilding, Rongotea, Linton, Bulls, Pahiatua, Woodville and Dannevirke. It has over 5,000 players, making it the tenth largest union in New Zealand in terms of player numbers.[1] In 2011, the union celebrated its 125th jubilee.
Manawatu have traditionally played in a distinctive green and white tramline jersey, which is thought to have been established in 1909.[2] In 1996, a jersey including red was worn, and colours worn have varied since the union was formed.
The union's home ground is Central Energy Trust Arena.
- ^ "Manawatu Rugby Shirts". Retrieved 16 February 2008.
- ^ Chester, Rod; McMillan, Neville; Palenski, Ron (1987). The Encyclopedia of New Zealand Rugby. Auckland, New Zealand: Moa Publications. p. 239. ISBN 0-908570-16-3.