PHALABORWA – Phalaborwa Rugby Club (PRC) is entering a new and exciting chapter following a strong 2025 season and confirmation that the club will officially compete under its own name in the 2026 season.

PRC enjoyed a successful campaign in 2025 while playing as Letaba’s second team in the second league, narrowly missing out on a place in the quarter finals. Following ongoing communication with the Blue Bulls Rugby Union, the club has received approval to compete independently as Phalaborwa Rugby Club from 2026.

“To mark this milestone, PRC will host a friendly match against Letaba’s first team on January 31 at Impala Park in Phalaborwa. The match is expected to draw strong local support and will serve as a symbolic return for the club under its original identity. The club has also elected a new committee, which it plans to formally introduce to the community in a separate article, as part of its efforts to strengthen both administrative and on-field structures,” said Ruben Coetzer of PRC.

Team shows competitive spirit in recent fixtures

On the field, PRC has shown it is capable of competing at a high level. In a challenging fixture against Northam Rhinos, PRC was forced to defend its try line for nearly 13 minutes before conceding the opening try. Trailing 21–7 at half-time, the team responded with determination in the second half, scoring two tries of their own. Despite the improved performance, Northam Rhinos secured a 35–19 victory.

Head coach Sello Sekhwela praised the team’s effort despite the result, noting the strength of the opposition and the progress made by his players. He said the match proved that PRC is ready to compete with the best teams in the league and that with sufficient support, the club can restore pride in Phalaborwa rugby.

PRC responded positively in the following match, recording a convincing 34–17 away victory over the University of Limpopo’s first team in Polokwane. Sekhwela said the performance reflected the team’s improved fitness levels and growing understanding of its game plan, adding that belief within the squad continues to grow.

On May 31 last year, PRC hosted Nkowankowa at Impala Park, where the team was buoyed by a larger-than-expected crowd. PRC delivered a dominant 34–10 win, with captain Tertius du Toit earning man of the match honours for his leadership and performance.

The following week, PRC travelled to Tzaneen to face Potties 2 at Letaba Park. The match ended in a 19–5 defeat, with all points scored in the first half. Despite the loss, the coaching staff highlighted the team’s strong second-half showing as further proof of its competitiveness in the league.

PRC has since secured another league victory and continues preparations for upcoming fixtures, including what the club believes will be its toughest challenge yet this season against Northam Rhinos’ second team on August 2.

Growing momentum with community support

With renewed momentum, growing community support and confirmation of its return under the Blue Bulls Rugby Union, Phalaborwa Rugby Club believes it is firmly on the path to reclaiming its place in competitive rugby and rebuilding a strong rugby culture in the town.

Practice is on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thurdays from 18:00-19:30.

Anybody is welcome to join and can contact PRC secretary Mojalefa Thuledi at 064 733 6254.