Barries seeks sponsorship for World Cup

Barend Vorster, also known as Barries from Alberton, has been given an incredible opportunity to represent his country at the Touch World Cup.

“I’m thrilled to announce that I’ve been chosen to compete in this thournemtn at the University of Nottingham Highfields Sports Complex in Nottingham, England, from July 15 to 21.”

He faces the obstacle of the financial obligations tied to participating in this prestigious event.

It all began with rugby

His passion for the sport ignited at a young age, starting with Welpie Rugby when in Grade R.

“My dad always used to train me and taught me a lot of the sport,“ Barries said.

Throughout his primary school years, he continued to play rugby, primarily as a fly-half. However, upon entering high school, he shifted towards long-distance running, finding success in athletics.

“Running made such a big impact on my life. It taught me determination and helped me get through difficult times in my life.”

Despite his focus on athletics, rugby remained in the back of his mind. In Grade 11, he returned to the sport and from there his course was set. Joining club rugby, he quickly made an impact, earning both player of the year and backline player of the year awards in his first season.

The world of touch rugby

Touch rugby is a simple game that does not need a lot of gear. It is like regular rugby but without heavy tackles and complicated rules like lineouts and scrums.

Barries discovered touch rugby in 2021 and joined the Touch Boks mixed team. He loves it because it is fast and needs good fitness. Instead of tackling, you touch your opponents. Barries said it is like playing chess on the field.

Playing touch rugby has made Barries more alert, helping him spot gaps between players. A game consists of two 20-minute halves with a short break in between. There are 12 players on the team, but only six play at a time.
“Besides being fun, touch rugby is a great way to stay fit without even realising it.”

Barries said he gives his everything every time, whether it is for a practice or a match.

“I don’t drive to practice. I either run or cycle,” he said.

He shares his journey on his YouTube channel, ‘The Golden Eagle’, inspired by his name which has the word ‘arend’ in and ‘arend’ in English means eagle.

“Just like an eagle soars above storms, Barend aims to rise above challenges in his career,” said Barries.
It is a big goal for him to give back to the community and he would love to one day help young upcoming players train.

A dream realised

In 2023 and 2024, three camps were held for touch rugby players. At these camps, players underwent fitness tests and assessments. Earlier this year, Barries received an email notifying him of his selection to participate in the Touch World Cup.

“When I received that email, I was ecstatic. It is a feeling I hope everyone gets to experience at least once in their lifetime. You know when someone expresses pride in you without even saying it,” he said.

How you can make a difference

As touch rugby requires players to cover their own expenses, Barries is faced with the responsibility of financing various aspects including flights, visa, kit, tournament fees, and support staff costs like coaches and physiotherapists. The total needed for his participation amounts to R70 000.

“While I managed to gather some funds, it is far from sufficient,” he explained.

Barries sees this as his moment, his opportunity to fulfil his dream. All he asks is that people support him in turning this dream into reality.

“I give my all, pouring every ounce of effort into each practice and match, fuelled by my passion for touch rugby,“ he shared.

He is reaching out to the community, seeking assistance or sponsorship to lighten the financial load.

“Every contribution, regardless of size, would mean the world to me,” he said.

“I eagerly anticipate the chance to represent our nation with pride and excellence,” Barries expressed.

Anyone interested in offering support can reach out to him via email at barries777.vorster@gmail.com or by phone at 082 812 2049.