Rugby development gets the SPAR treatment

When business meets community, something amazing is born.

The SPAR KwaZulu-Natal Inter-District Rugby Tournament, hosted from May 21 to 23, served as proof of this concept.

At the culmination of superb rugby action, three KZN teams were announced.

Among the cream of the crop were two players hailing from Newcastle, and a host from across the Northern KZN region.

Out of 330 boys, this is an achievement of note.

Commenting on the tournament, KZN Midlands Primary Schools Rugby Chairman, Tiny Coetzee said he was delighted with how the tourney had turned out.

“The weather was great, the games were hard and exciting, and I believe every single one of the boys enjoyed themselves.

This year, he added, the selection process had been re-considered.

Mr Coetzee said those selected for the squads would be required to undergo another round during which to impress the selectors.

This means two under-13 teams will take part in Bloemfontein’s Bondedag later this year.

“This will serve as the final trials as to who will be selected for the A or B side. The u-13A team will head to Craven Week in Witrivier, Mpumalanga; meanwhile, the u-13B side will head to Sasolburg.”

The u-12 division players will return to Pietermaritzburg for their final round of trials, with the top selections heading to Vryheid to represent KZN at the end of July.

Beyond these accolades, the tournament also promoted overall wellness.

Rob Philipson, Managing Director of SPAR KZN said the brand encouraged people to lead healthy lifestyles, and felt the tournament developed strong bodies on the field, as well as nurturing healthy attitudes and team spirit.

“We are really pleased with the tremendous spirit and camaraderie that is evident. Well done to all those who participated; they are all winners to have got this far. We wish those who have been selected for the next level, the very best of luck. We look forward to their future success.”