YMP Hockey

THE HISTORY OF Y.M.P. & THE CLUB

Historically, this club has had an affiliation with the Tairawhiti region since the 1900’s, but its inception was part of the political history of Aotearoa / New Zealand. At a time when Sir Apirana Ngata, Maui Pomare, Dr Peter Buck and Frederick Bennett, pursued political careers as representatives for Maori in 1909, originating at the Theological College at Waerenga-A-Hika, hence the strong connection to Manutuke. Together these gentlemen, would influence decision making for improvement of how Maori would be treated. This political party took the name of , “The Young Maori Party”, Y.M.P.

The purpose of the Y.M.P. party was to reinstate self esteem among Maori. To have such leaders as Ngata, Pomare, Bennett and Buck would set the foundation for improved relationships between Maori and Pakeha. Now, no longer a political party, the Name Y.M.P. has become synonymous with sport in the Tairawhiti district. The Y.M.P. club is represented in Hockey, Netball and Rugby, and members of the club, are of various cultures, NOT just Maori.

The Y.M.P. Club as a Sports Club, began with the rugby club starting in 1910, hockey began in approximately 1919, with netball following soon after.

The Y.M.P. Hockey Club, is one of the 3 Original founding Hockey clubs the other two being Kia Toa and Caledonia, which, like Y.M.P. still field teams today.

The Y.M.P. Club has recently been able to field 2 Senior Men’s teams and a Women’s team.

Both Men’s and Women’s teams have had an illustrious career spanning generations, and this comment is not recorded lightly, for there have been whanau who have seen generations of their family members, play for this club in any chosen sport.

The survival of any Club is due in essence to the strength and support of it’s ‘whanau’ and the Political Party, that was formed so many years ago, has led to families having an affiliation to the club, especially those from Manutuke.

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