Sportreach rugby team unstoppable and undefeated
The Sportsreach rugby team have started strong, setting high expectations for their future in rugby.
Penreach’s Sportreach rugby team made an extraordinary debut at the Penryn Bezant Festival, winning all six of the matches they played from May 22 to 24. Despite having only seven hours of training, the young athletes showcased raw talent and potential, demonstrating exceptional skill and teamwork.
The team consisted of 23 boys selected from 10 under-resourced primary schools in the province. The trial process aimed at identifying potential skills among Grade Five to Seven learners from these schools, which included Horizon Academy, Enzane, Benjamin, Ekucathuzeni, Sikhutsele, Ecathulani, Buhlebuyeta, Boshrand, Zamani, Bambanani and Kwetse Primary Schools.
According to the Sportreach co-ordinator, Xolani Grootboom, the boys’ outstanding results proved that talent lives everywhere. “This is about more than sport. It is about creating moments of belief; moments that say you belong and you are capable,” said Grootboom.
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The Sportreach programme uses sport as a tool for development, discipline and dignity. Grootboom said the initiative provides regular coaching clinics, teacher-development and access to essential equipment.
“The programme has received support from local partners, including Kiaat Private Hospital, eBundu Lodge & Spa and the KMI Airport. Their investment highlights the importance of community backing in rewriting futures,” he added.
The expanded programme includes other sports disciplines such as hockey and cricket, supported by experienced mentors and coaches. The director of Penreach STEAM, Given Mashabane, said that when a community believes, change happens.
“This is how change begins; one team, one match and one community that chooses to believe,” he said. Penreach’s successful Sportreach launch comes after an intensive information drive which included school visits by tennis legend Roger Federer and rugby icon Siya Kolisi.
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The results of the Penryn Bezant Festival are:
• Sportreach 25-0 St Dunstans College A
• Sportreach 10-7 St Stithians A
• Sportreach 19-15 Penryn Combined A & B
• Sportreach 53-5 UFS International
• Sportreach 41-7 Heron Bridge Prep
• Sportreach 28-12 Penryn U13A.
