The Newcastle Highlanders again proved their dominance by claiming top spot in the rugby division at the Amajuba District iSukile Sports Programme this past Sunday.

Both the Highlanders’ boys and girls teams secured first place, while the Bears finished second and the Flying Eagles third.

Head coach Andrè ‘Swannie’ Swanepoel thanked the district for its continued efforts to uplift rugby as a sport ahead of the 2026 season.

Held at the Arbor Park Sports Field and hosted by the Newcastle Municipality, the event, themed ‘Building an Active and Healthy KZN’, aimed to promote holistic health, social unity, and community participation.

Newcastle Council Speaker, Cllr TM Zulu, District Mayor Cllr Thembelihle Mthembu, and MEC for Sport, Arts and Culture, Mntomuhle Khawula, jointly emphasised the need for collaboration in advancing the wellness agenda.

“The iSukile Programme is a demonstration of our steadfast dedication to improving the quality of life in our communities,” Zulu said. “Through initiatives such as this, we aim to inspire a culture of wellness, unity, and social cohesion, which are crucial to the development of our district.”

The programme featured a range of popular sporting and cultural activities, including rugby, football, netball, aerobics, indigenous games, and the colourful Rainbow Show, accompanied by a variety of local food stalls.

According to the municipality, these activities not only promoted physical well-being but also encouraged social interaction, community bonding, and cultural exchange.

“We are determined in our pursuit of creating an environment that encourages our communities to adopt healthy lifestyles,” said MEC Khawula. “The iSukile Programme is an exemplary model of how government, communities, and stakeholders can work together to promote wellness and social cohesion.”

The Amajuba District iSukile Programme has set a strong precedent for future collaborations, underscoring the power of collective action in promoting holistic wellness and positive community development.

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