Young boys had a sparkle in their eyes on July 23 as Nelspruit Rugby Club welcomed the new junior rugby club, Kudu Kids. The club aims to provide a bright future for young players aged nine to 18.

Pumas coach outlines vision

Pumas U21 head coach Jacques Momberg welcomed parents and their children. With many years of professional rugby experience, he highlighted common problems with players. He explained that players do not always get the required conditioning and opportunities at school.

During his presentation, he outlined the club’s goals and plans to inspire young players to reach their goal of playing for national teams or club rugby in the future. “We want to bring junior club rugby back to the Lowveld and help players reach their full potential,” he added.

He explained that there will be one coach for every 15 players, depending on how many children join the club. He also introduced the new ‘Kudu Kit’ and jerseys that each club player will wear. “At our club, we believe players should all look the same to form unity,” Momberg said.

Community backs new initiative

Mpumalanga finalist Tania Kapp followed with her encouraging campaign, ‘Scrum for Success’, in which she showed her support for the new club and its mission. “Together, we’re committed to developing not only better rugby players, but confident leaders, respectful teammates, and resilient young people,” she added.

Each boy who signed up received a free Kudu Kids hat and was eager to start his first training session.

Parents can contact Nelspruit Rugby Club for more information on how to join the junior club.