This picture shows the 1907 Strathmore Dean Cup side, which defeated Whangamomona to become the first holder of the Dean Cup. A copy of the original photograph was presented to the TRFU by Mr Rex Coulton a stalwart of the Strathmore RFC, whose family have a long association with Dean Cup Rugby.

This match was mirrored in 2003 when Whangamomona challenged Strathmore. The game was played at Yarrow Stadium on April 19 as a curtain raiser to the Hurricanes Vs Highlanders Super 12 match. On this occasion Strathmore held on and defended the cup winning 17-16 in front of a capacity crowd.

This is the first time that the Dean Cup has been played for outside of the Eastern Districts. There are 3 clubs which vie for this trophy namely; Strathmore, Whangamomona and Toko. The cup was originally presented by Mrs Athalinda Dean in 1906 for a cricket match, however due to poor playing conditions this was cancelled and a rugby match began the tradition in 1907.

The Dean Cup is believed to be the oldest competition trophy still being played for in the sport of Rugby Union.