The 2012 Bay of Plenty Steamers has a second priority to accompany their mission of adding the ITM Cup to the Bay Union trophy cabinet this season.

Interaction with the wider Bay of Plenty community is another top priority for Steamers coach Kevin Schuler.

'The Steamers are making a big effort to get around the region this season to reward the huge local support that we receive throughout the Bay. While it is a busy season it is important to get to as many smaller communities as possible along with the big city fan bases.”

As the Steamers XV prepare to hit-out against Hawke's Bay at Rugby Park on Wednesday, groups of Steamers will disperse to visit Matata Public School, Te Kura o Te Paroa, Whakatane Intermediate, Apanui Primary and the Ohope Beach and Allandale Schools.

On Friday, the Steamers will hit the road to interact with the Reporoa community on the Bay Union border.

A coaching session at Reporoa College with the College first fifteen, will be followed with a junior rugby fun time that features drills and fun and games, before joining the wider Reporoa community at a focal meeting point in the district.

'Last Friday we took the Steamers to Edgecumbe, with the squad travelling to Reporoa this Friday. With both Sam Cane and Carl Axtens originating from Reporoa, we expect a big turnout on the Bay of Plenty border,” says Kevin.

New Steamers recruit Mafi Kefu, who has played Super 15 rugby for the Queensland Reds, will start in the 13 jersey in Whakatane.

Other new recruits selected for the Steamers XV include Simon Rolleston, Mike Kainga, Jack Wilson and Kendrick Lynn while Maru Henry from Paroa will sit on the bench.

Steamers XV v Hawke's Bay at Rugby Park Whakatane Wednesday– kick-off 2pm.

1 Greg Pleasants Tate 2 Dan Perrin 3 Mike Kainga 4 Culum Rettalick 5 Leon Power 6 Warren Smith 7 Luke Braid 8 Carl Axtens 9 Jamie Nutbrown 10 Chris Noakes 11 Lance MacDonald 12 Simon Rolleston 13 Mafi Kefu 14 Jack Wilson 15 Kendrick Lynn

Reserves: John Pareanga, Pingi Tala'apitaga, Keepa Mewett, Jesse Acton, Josh Hall, Lewis Hancock, Nick McCashin, Maru Henry.

Wednesday – Matata Public School, Te Kura o Te Paroa, Whakatane Intermediate, Apanui Primary, Ohope Beach & Allandale Schools.

Friday 10 August – Reporoa Collage & Reporoa Community.

Steamers Community Visits WE August 11.