
High Performance Programme
The John Jones Steel High Performance Programme was established in 2020 with the goal to ensure we identify and keep our local-based talent in the region and also to attract talent from outside the region to help fast track their development to become Highlanders.
We have a three-step development pyramid of Learn, To Earn, The Opportunity. That we rely on to help develop good Highlanders on the field but also better Highlander Men off it.
Learn: The foundation of our performance PYRAMID is how well we learn to perform consistently - firstly as individuals, then as a team.
To Earn: On a day-to-day basis, on and off the field, perform to a level that earns the right to represent.
The Opportunity: Only a lucky few get to represent us each week.. They will have earned it.
John Jones Steel is one of the largest and most advanced structural steel fabricating enterprises in New Zealand. Frank and his team at John Jones Steel are proud to back the boys coming through the Highlanders High Performance Programme. Their support not only allows the Highlanders to identify the best local talent and attract players to our region, it also helps us create a world class programme to develop these young players.

Frank van Schaijik, John Jones Steel Managing Director, pictured with (left to right) Noah Hotham, Saula Mau, Fabian Holland and Sean Withy at the Highlanders High Performance launch.
Sean Withy
Position: Loose Forward
Born: 01.02.2001
Height: 189cm
Weight: 104kgs
School: Southland Boys
Club: University
Hobbies: Golf, Cards, Hunting/Fishing

Noah Hotham
Position: Halfback
Born: 23.05.2003
Height: 181cm
Weight: 90kgs
School: Hamilton BHS
Club: Alhambra Union RFC
Hobbies: Touch

Fabian Holland
Position: Lock
Born: 09.10.2002
Height: 204cm
Weight: 116kgs
School: Christchurch BHS
Club: Dunedin Sharks
Hobbies: Fishing, Surfing, Being in nature

Saula Ma'u
Position: Prop
Born: 29.04.2000
Height: 194cm
Weight: 139kgs
School: Auckland Grammer
Club: Harbour RFC
Hobbies: Gaming, Movies
