An Auckland high school’s wrestling team has been left without their uniforms before an important tournament after the vehicle in which they were in was stolen.
The vehicle was stolen in New Lynn during the early hours of Monday morning. Inside was a box of 30 new wrestling uniforms and boots belonging to De La Salle College.
Inspector Kelly Farrant said the vehicle was found abandoned in Clendon Park on Monday afternoon, but there was no sign of the uniforms.
“We are working hard to identify and locate those responsible and are hoping someone in the community knows where these uniforms may be.”
De La Salle College wrestling coach Josh Silbery-Martin said it was the second time his vehicle had been stolen.
He said his main concern was retrieving the uniforms before his team competed at the New Zealand Secondary Schools National Wrestling Competition tomorrow.
“I was way more worried about the gear.
“It’s been pretty tough, my wife and I have worked really hard to bring this new sport to De La Salle and for this to happen — it’s gutting.”
Silbery-Martin said the school had been able to find some spare uniforms ahead of the competition but hoped the new uniforms and shoes would show up before then.
“It’s just a bummer, we’ve all worked so hard and had sponsorship for these uniforms,” he said.
“I’m really hopeful they might just turn up.”
Police are now seeking the public’s help to find the uniforms.
“Anyone with information can call police on 105 and quote file number 240902/4291.”
