Ballito Dolphins’ young lion Simba Funguro leads from scrumhalf
The up-and-coming star is ready for his run in the first XV.
Simba Funguro is charging up the ranks at Ballito Dolphins Rugby Club, turning resilience and raw talent into standout performances on the rugby field.
The 21-year-old’s journey has been defined by hard work and passion. “I haven’t played rugby for long,” said Simba. “I started in Grade 5 in 2016 at Curro Salt Rock. It wasn’t easy at first, but I learned quickly. By Grade 6, I was among the best in the primary school.”
Financial challenges later forced him to change schools. “That is when I went five years without playing rugby,” he recalled.
In 2022, Simba returned to the sport with the Ballito Dolphins, playing in the juniors for a year before joining the senior squad in 2023. “It was tough as I was small in size, but I had the heart. That year, I won Most Improved Player,” he said.
His determination paid off. Entering 2025, he was more confident and experienced, though the Dolphins endured a forgettable campaign. Despite this, Simba was awarded Best Backline Player of the Year for the 2nd XV and also received the Players’ Player of the Season accolade.
“I want to build on that in 2026 and help my team,” he said.
Simba, who is completing an engineering internship in Ballito, says his teammates might describe him as “fearless” – a team player who always wants to win.
A natural scrumhalf, Simba lists his strengths as passing from both sides – something even some professionals struggle with – quick footwork and excellent vision, which also sees him occasionally selected to play on the wing.
READ MORE: Ballito Dolphins juniors cap excellent year at season-ending prizegiving | North Coast Courier
His proudest moment came in 2024, when he scored a try against league powerhouse Hillcrest Villagers in the Junior Murray Cup. Simba draws inspiration from Springbok scrumhalf Grant Williams. “I like his style of play, as we play the same position, and how quick he is. I look up to him.”
For Simba, rugby is more than a game.
“The Ballito Dolphins bring people from different backgrounds to share one ball and one field. Dolphins are our family.”
His advice to young players?
“Don’t give up, work hard and keep striving for success.”
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