Players from the Golden Lions Rugby Union traded line-outs and conditioning training for the greens of the Benoni Country Club on November 13.

Armed with putters, irons and woods, 140 players teed off in the union’s annual Players’ Golf Day.

Leading pack, loose forward and team captain Francke Horn led the ruck onto the course, edging a try to the goal posts, during this fundraising initiative.

“The day is aimed at raising funds for the union’s players fund, and who better to rope in and get the ball rolling than Benoni’s do-gooder and vocal Lions supporter, Gregg Mitchley of the Gregg Mitchley Foundation (GMF),” said Horn.

“Through the fund, we contribute to upgrades at the Emirates Airline Park, which add to player morale and development, as well as assisting players in various aspects.”

Horn said the decision to host this year’s event on the East Rand was due to Mitchley’s strong-arming the team to better their handicaps in his hometown.

“We have built a solid relationship with the GMF, and he ultimately won the toss on where we should host this year’s event. Who knows? We might become regulars here,” he said.

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“Other than raising funds and enjoying a day away from the pitch, this was a golden opportunity to network with sponsors and mingle with fans.”

While enjoying a breather from the whistle, Horn said that although the team’s Vodacom United Rugby Championship campaign got off to a rocky start, they are confident about the forthcoming clash against the Vodacom Bulls at Loftus Versfeld on November 29.

“We have put in the work and are excited about what we will bring to the game,” he said.

Noting the deep-rooted rugby culture among the city’s youth, Horn said that young players need to enjoy their time on the field.

“Rugby is about passion, but I urge aspiring cubs to always have fun. Try different sports, participate in whatever makes your heart happy. There is a time and place to take things to the next level.

“Do not feel pressured to always be the best; there are valuable lessons to be learnt in losses, too.”

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