The tradition of the Otago whalers is back, but conservationists do not need to worry.
The Otago rugby league side gunning for the South Island representative title this year has taken the name the Whalers.
Coach David Reedy said his board chose the name to reflect the proud history of whaling in the province, and the similarities between life as a whaler and the life of a southern league representative.
Whalers were strong, hardy men, just like the players of today.
His team has many tertiary students who, like the whalers, came to Otago for a short while before leaving to seek new opportunities.
He was "incredibly proud" to coach the Whalers and was excited Otago had a team in the competition after a five-year hiatus.
Reedy was confident the Whalers would put in a good showing and be competitive.
Lock Manassah Kutia and prop Koben Katipa have been named co-captains.
Kutia was pleased with the Whalers name and the proud history it represents.
He was honoured to captain the side with Katipa, who he will "let do most of the talking" on game day.
"I will add some support and lead from the front," Kutia said.
Katipa was humbled and "extremely proud" to be named co-captain. He was confident of a good season and said the Whalers had a good mix of youth and experience in its side.
The Whalers play the Southland Rams at Tahuna Park on Saturday at 2.45pm. They also play Canterbury A in Dunedin before taking on Tasman, West Coast and the Canterbury under-20 side, away from home.
South Pacific Raiders player Jonnie Hughes was picked for the South Island squad after a successful trial in Christchurch earlier this month.
Hughes said he was thrilled with the call-up and it was great to get the recognition and be acknowledged as a good player.
