Hibernian A.F.C.

Womens Team at 2007 New Zealand Marist Tournament

Club History

Hibernian A.F.C. started life in the mid 70’s as an old boy’s team from St John’s College in Hastings, which explains the maroon colour of the strip. Originally we were called Hibernian-St John’s AFC and catered to the ex Catholic Boys from Napier and Hastings being based at the College. Early notable coaches included Bill Dick, who is still coaching in Taradale and Roger Walmsley who went onto coach at National League level in NZ. The Napier residents later started their own club – Napier Marist.

Changes in home grounds have been to Akina Park which we shared with Maycenvale and used the softball club rooms for after match celebrations. Further moves have been to Chatham Park, remember the old Polo Pavilion, and where we still own the floodlights; and now to beautiful Flaxmere Park. During this period we amalgamated with the Flaxmere Club gaining the junior section and the senior part of both clubs was strengthened. The women’s section has always been a strong part of the Club in recent years.

Life and founding members are John McCarthy (deceased), Dermot Kelly and Mike Carroll. Others to join the ranks are Russ Crosby (deceased), Allan Jack, Eileen Mills and Richard Mills. These last three are still actively involved in the Club.

A major attraction to being a member of Hibs is the NZ Marist Tournament. This competition is hosted annually in different parts of the North Island, in the last few years attracting about 40 teams. It is the equivalent of rugby’s Splain Cup and is a wonderful way of closing the season. The membership for this tournament is based around the missionary Marist Brothers and Fathers who started schools for educating young men in the Catholic traditions – hence the “Marist Tournament”

While the religious background is no longer emphasized, Hibernian A.F.C. offers its members a safe friendly environment, with a family atmosphere. Several of the players have been with the club for over 20 years and some of them are still playing.

If you are new to the Hastings area and looking for a club to join Hibernian A.F.C could be well worth a call.

Club Sponsors

Hibernian Club Inc.

Cape Physio

Morgan Financial Solutions Ltd

(Mortgage Brokers for the Everyday Kiwi)

Contact Information

Club Fax:

06 8786129

Club Postal Address:

P O Box 899

HASTINGS

E-mail address

rsmills@inhb.co.nz