Drawing inspiration from his Springbok rugby hero, Eben Etzebeth, 16-year-old Chinonso Christain Odidika has been selected to play rugby in England and Wales in December.
Chinonso, currently in Grade 9 at Glencoe’s Sarel Cilliers High School, is appealing to Herald readers to help raise funds to make his dream come true.
He has been playing rugby since he was ten and attending Nardini Convent School. The tour, will not only expose young players from South Africa to the sporting culture of England and Wales but will also offer future playing opportunities in the UK.
“There have been times when I wanted to quit rugby as I felt I was not good enough. But my mother kept pushing me.
“My mother has held my hand and has always believed in me; now I believe in myself … I can make a career out of rugby but my other plan is to become an architect.
“I have participated in various tournaments and also played 7’s; I believe I have the strength and speed needed in rugby.”
Odidika received a scholarship to Sarel Cilliers High School with the assistance of one of his rugby coaches, Mr Joubert.
“I am very thankful to him. The scholarship requires me to pass my studies which can be a challenge because I need to also play.
“I am playing first team under 15 and second team under 17 and I am trying my best to balance the two.’’
Odidika says he sees himself one day playing for the Springboks and shares the same position as Etzebeth – number 4 and 5, tighthead lock. He needs to raise the funds needed for the trip before August. Anyone wishing to assist this young man realise his dream can call Werner Muller on 083 645 4824 or werner@travelandsport.com for the confirmation of the trip and for fundraising they can call Odidika on 071 053 8064.

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The news provided to you in this link comes to you from the editorial staff of the Vryheid Herald, a sold newspaper distributed in the Vryheid area.