De Groot, Tangitau claim top awards at Highlanders
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
Highlanders co-Captain Ethan de Groot has been named the supreme winner at the southern franchises 2026 prizegiving as the prestigious, Highlander Man.
The 27-year-old All Blacks prop anchored a powerful scrum, provided leadership as co‑captain, and delivered some of his finest rugby in a Highlanders jersey while navigating becoming a first time parent.
LATEST HEADLINES:
Outstanding backline prospect CalebTangitau also picked up multiple awards after an outstanding season on the wing. A season that has been devastatingly curtailed by an Achilles injury picked up in the dying minutes of last Friday’s game against the Chiefs.
His season was cut short by an Achilles injury picked up in the dying minutes of last Friday’s game against the Chiefs.
Tangitau, 23 a player widely regarded as an All Black in waiting, delivered a season of consistent brilliance; highlighted by his explosive first half against the Waratahs that helped set up a commanding 28–5 halftime lead.
He has scored seven tries to date and is the joint leading try scorer for 2026. Tangitau received three awards: Back of the Year, SBS Bank Fan Player of Year and Speights Player’s Player acknowledging his importance to his fellow teammates and the fans as well.
A model of durability and consistency, Te Kamaka Howden claimed 2026 Forward of the Year and Defender of the Year after starting virtually every match and logging the most minutes of any Highlander’s player this season.
Young loose forward Lucas Casey claimed 2026 Rookie of the Year following a breakout NPC campaign for Otago. Initially part of the wider training group, Casey earned his debut in Round 1 against the Crusaders and has made a total of 10 appearances so far this season.
The Southern Inspiration Award, a relatively new accolade, honours the individual who best embodies the Highlanders Club purpose of Southern Inspiration.
This year’s recipient, Angus Ta’avao, made a profound impact in his first season with the Highlanders. His leadership, mentorship, and professionalism helped guide a young squad, while his courage and dignity in the face of personal tragedy earned deep admiration across the Club.
Rising Southland first five, Mika Muliaina, was recognised as the University of Otago Highlanders Region U20 MVP after a standout year that included selection for the New Zealand U20s, where he started all three matches on their recent tour.
At just 18, he debuted for Southland in the NPC and has already signed with the Highlanders from 2027.
The Community Champ was Andrew KnewstubDe Gr
