The 14th annual Vaughan Kuka Memorial Rugby Tens hosted by the Te Puna Rugby Club today has attracted a record number of entries.

During the 60s, ten-a-side rugby abounded, however, the (now) more popular sevens game has overtaken it in popularity. With the Te Puna tournament flying the flag for the ten-a-side game – 21 teams have entered this years tournament.

Last year, after round robin play and semi-finals, hosts Te Puna and near neighbours Hangarau (Bethlehem) went to battle to decide the championship silverware.

The two sides had made the final in contrasting circumstances, with Te Puna streeting last season's new recruits Putaruru, 34-nil, and Hangarau winning a good tussle with Ngongotaha.

While the final was up for grabs through most of the 15 minutes each way, Hangarau grabbed the deciding points to post a 17-7 victory to win the tournament for the first time.

Hangarau is back to defend its title with plenty of contenders for the championship likely to be snapping at its heels.

Host Te Puna has entered two sides this year, with Rangiuru, Judea and Katikati also having two sides each, endeavouring to lift aloft the tournament trophy.

While a strong contingent of Western Bay clubs will be on hand – Whakarewarewa, Ngongotaha, Rotoiti and Waikite from the Rotorua region, will keep the other contenders honest.

Waikato sides Waharoa and Putaruru, who will journey over the hill, won't be coming just to make up the numbers.

Games in the tournament that kicks off at 10am are10 minutes each way with a two-minute break, with the championship decider being 15 minutes each way.

Historically the day is about fun and enjoyment, with plenty of food and refreshments on hand to satisfy the usual large crowd of spectators and loyal team fans.

The entrance fee is a very modest $3 with Kuia and Kaumatua along with kids of school age and under given free entry.

Te Puna Tens Entries

Whakarewarewa, Ngongotaha, Rotoiti, Rangiuru (2), Rangataua, Arataki, Te Puna (2), Judea (2), Matakana Island, Katikati (2), Hangarau (Bethlehem), Waikite, Eastern Districts, Paroa, Poroporo, Putaruru, Waharoa.