Following a historic first-ever league title win last season, Hazyview Rugby Club (HRC) is gearing up for a high-stakes 2026 season to defend their title and claim dominance across the broader Regional League.

HRC’s backline coach, Manny Correia, said the team is focused on keeping the Ehlanzeni Mayor’s League title they fought so hard to secure last year.

However, the club’s ambitions extend beyond a single trophy. “As a team we are aiming to win the provincial rugby tournament and ensure our fans are kept happy. This season will feature a double-round format with teams playing home and away matches. This offers fans more opportunity to support their teams on home ground,” he explained.

ALSO READ: History made as Hazyview Rugby Club lift Mayor’s League tropy

According to Correia, the HRC squad enters the 2026 season with a blend of experience and fresh talent. Old stalwarts will provide leadership to talented new players.

The team’s preparation has already yielded results. HRC secured a nerve-wracking one-point victory over White River 2 during an annual rugby day.

Correia described the match as a tight game and expressed his pride in the team’s composure under pressure.

ALSO READ: Hazyview Rugby Club secures home final after thrilling victory

“We are looking forward to a really, really good season and are very positive at this point; humble, but very positive. We are also calling on local businesses to support the club to reach the next level,” he said.

Another HRC coach, Manie van Wyk, said he is expecting full commitment from each team player to ensure the club performs optimally to win all matches and be the best team in Mpumalanga.

HRC’s captain, Sandile Makhubela, said the team was not just playing for themselves, but to inspire the youth to join the club.

“We are really looking forward to this season and are ready to face our opponents and obtain good results. He also said that it is about more than just game technicalities; HRC is taking its role as community pillar seriously. Their mantra focuses on playing for everyone in Hazyview.

“We believe in supporting each other as teammates and brothers to foster a love for the game and inspire the local youth.”