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HomeCartoonsSports shorts...

Sports shorts…

Jon Rawlinson
By Jon Rawlinson
May 9, 2026
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
Head-knocked Nick. Original illustration by Roger Smith

Who likes sports shorts? For those who like their sports brief – to the point, that is, not unnecessarily revealing! – we have a few short shots to share. If you think we’re not playing fair, and other teams deserve a mention, email editor@franklintimes.co.nz and he’ll look into them… the teams that is, not their shorts.

Who is Head-knocked Nick?

After running the first Sports Shorts column in our previous issue, Franklin Times has been asked about the identity of its writer. Thanks to our adept cartoonist, Roger Smith, we have included a mug shot of the man himself. However, we know very little about this rugged front-rower other than that he probably shouldn’t play rugby or anything riskier than tiddlywinks.

Lofty goals

Franklin United’s seniors may not be setting the world on fire, but the future of local football looks sound. Thanks to the club’s youth programmes, players are set to compete in Europe, Australia and the USA. However, they could use a little support to help cover expenses – to lend a hand, contact the club online at www.franklinunited.nz.

Not that kind on Magic

The Waikato/BOP Magic were unable to pull a rabbit out of a hat to register their first win of the 2026 ANZ Premiership. Instead, the Northern Stars dished out a 56–39 drubbing at Pulman Arena. Another win against the Tactix (May 10) could be the perfect Mother’s Day gift for Stars fans.

Rays razed

The Franklin Bulls were roaring again recently during a road win (103–88) against the Tauranga Whai. The result sees them lift their horns above water slightly on the Sal’s NBL table. As this issue of the Times went to print, the Bulls were back in town and looking to take down the tall timber from the Nelson Giants (May 8).

Eagles dare

The Papakura Sea Eagles were off to a flying start in this year’s Fox Memorial Premiership taking down the Manukau Magpies 34–20. However, a round two loss to the Bay Roskill Vikings (32–10) brought them back to earth. Whether the Eagles soar or sink this season remains in the balance.

Phoenix rises

A local fundraiser will not leave us with ashes in our mouths. Phoenix BJJ (Brazilian jiu-jitsu) Pukekohe is selling veggie boxes full of locally grown produce to fund an upcoming trip to Japan. Search ‘Phoenix BBJ’ on Facebook to place an order and help these local kids experience new cultures, meet new people… and knock the heck out of them!

Stars v Magic. Photo Lucy Peterson, Times Media
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