The Ron Pierce Trophy was first presented in 1961 to the team displaying the best behaviour and sportsmanship both on and off the field. Over time it has morphed to be the trophy presented to the team and management that best up holds the integrity and values of the Ross Shield Tournament throughout the week. It is ranked the number two trophy of the Tournament holding huge prestigious value. The awarding of this trophy sits under the umbrella of the Hawke’s Bay Primary Schools’ Rugby committee, who have an in-depth scoring system to monitor and include all activities throughout the week.

Ron Pierce was a Senior Referee of the Hastings Rugby Referees’ Association in which he played a full and active part in all of its activities. He was an all-round sportsman and represented Hawke’s Bay at cricket. He was particularly interested in the younger players of any sport and gave freely of his time and expertise.

In 1959 he was refereeing the final game of the Ross Shield Tournament in Hastings which was between Napier and Hastings. During the game he collapsed and died.

His many achievements, and in particular, his sportsmanlike qualities will always be remembered.

Up until 1989, Taupō was a part of the Ross Shield Competition. They were eligible for the Ron Pierce Trophy. From 1989 onwards, Taupō moved to the King Country Rugby Union, and Hastings split into Hastings East and Hastings West.