Youngsters to play overseas
Being selected for this squad has given the local youngsters a reason to dream big.
Brakpan Rugby Club has a history of producing quality teams and looking at their u-12 side this is something that is likely to continue for many years to come. No less than 10 out of 24 players were selected to represent the national youth Rhino Squad, are from the local club.
The team selected to face Scotland, Wales and England, from November 25 to December 4, was picked after the recent Rhino Week in Vanderbijlpark.
“I want to play until I’m old, until I’m a Springbok,” said young Heinrich Pienaar, who is the team’s vice-captain.
The captain of the side, Cullem Nel, is also from Brakpan and he seems like a true team player.
“For me it’s all about playing as a team and learning new stuff,” says Cullem.
Local coach Jonny Mare will be leading the team in Scotland.
“It’s a great achievement for the children,” said Mare.
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“It’s always nice to see your players perform on a different level. So I’m very proud of them and I’m so excited to go on tour with them.”
Coaching the young players is something Mare clearly enjoys.
“You have to try to make it fun for them,” he said.
“They need to enjoy it. That’s what brings them back for the next practice session.”
He has high regards for his team of young superstars.
“It’s a nice group. It’s a good all-round performing side,” said the proud mentor.
“The hard work they put in shows on the field on Saturdays.”
Unfortunately for the team going to Scotland may not be as straight forward as it seems. It costs R32 500 per player to play in the tournament in the United Kingdom.
The club is hard at work trying to raise funds for the youngsters and they will hold a golf day at the Benoni Country Club on September 19 to try to raise the funds.
Those interested can contact 076 837 2306 or 084 440 0147.
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Contact the newsroom by emailing: Thelma Koorts (editor) brakpanherald@caxton.co.za
or Stacy Slatter (news editor) stacys@caxton.co.za
or Miné Fourie (journalist) minev@caxton.co.za
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