Steve Hepburn

Jono Bredin is swiftly moving up the ranks but says refereeing rugby is a constant learning curve.

Talented sporting all-rounder Kate Heffernan has made the first of what may become several tough calls.

It will be tough work for the Otago and Southland men's teams at the regional qualifiers in Timaru tomorrow.

Exams come first - we all know that.

Former international netball umpire Jono Bredin has continued his climb up the refereeing ranks in the oval ball code.

Some young southern talent will join the Highlanders as the franchise looks to build local stocks for the future.

The march to the 2019 Highlanders season starts today and for some of the players the focus will be on getting bigger and stronger.

It's a venue that was first opened to provide cover from the extremes of the Dunedin winter, but the Edgar Centre is fast becoming more popular in the summer.

Otago lock Tom Rowe said it was simply a no-brainer when he was offered the chance to play Super Rugby.

The All Black season has come to an end. While not a vintage year, it was far from the disaster many are painting. Rugby writer Steve Hepburn hands out a few awards.

Otago Cricket is hoping for a big crowd and the players are eyeing up a big payday as the one-day competition final looms.

The Japanese connection continues with Otago players.

Inia Logan has spent the best part of the year across the Tasman but he is ready to do his best for the blue and gold next week.

The Broncos have arrived in the South but fear not — they want to spread the word not raid the talent.

Laura Hoskin is eyeing a professional career but is in no rush to play for cash.

Highlanders and All Black loose forward Liam Squire has missed more than half of the games he could have played in the past three seasons.

Supporters and members of the Pirates club are being urged to get along to its annual meeting early next month as its future comes into focus.