Local rugby stars are chosen to represent Spifsport invitational team

Two of Komatipoort’s star first team rugby players have been chosen for the Spifsport invitational team to participate in a sevens tournament in Mauritius from September 23 to 29. Spif International Institute of Sport specialises in coaching clinics for schools.

The captain, Dirk de Bruyn, who recently finished second in the Beeld Trophy final, and Tiaan Nel, scrum half, form part of the team comprising 14 pupils of the Lowveld.

The competition is organised by the Mauritius Rugby Union and teams from around the world will participate.

Travel & Sport is the official travel-and-accommodation company used by Spifsport to sponsor the players.

Both boys are in their matric year, and apart from the Beeld Trophy final, this is also a great highlight with which to finish their school career.

For Tiaan it is an even greater privilege and honour to live his passion – to play rugby for his team.

In 2012, he couldn’t attend school for six months, as he had to undergo chemotherapy for lymph-gland cancer.

However, he is now in remission and his family is overjoyed.

According to his father, Quinten, Tiaan has an excellent doctor, for which they are very grateful .

He added, “Of course, all the prayers assisted in his journey to health. Last year, although he was battling the disease head-on, he faithfully attend every game, supporting his mates.

“Many spectators were touched each time the entire first team, after every game, walked over to him to give him a handshake.”