Front-foot ball for Highlanders

A rugby club woven into the fabric of Newcastle.

This is Andre Swanepoel’s vision of Boschpick Highlanders for 2016 and beyond, rekindling the massive rugby presence of old.

Historically, this town has bred many big names on the field.

“Guys like Anton Pitout and Bakkies Botha are born here. Joe Pietersen and Jaco Kriel’s father schooled here. Jannie Boshoff played for the Lions. In the ’80s, JJ van der Walt played 60-odd games for the Bulls, and he was a local boy.”

Add to this, numerous young players who competed at franchise level, and the foundation of a club fully integrated with the Newcastle name doesn’t seem so strange.

With Highlanders moving up to Premier Division next year, support will be crucial.

“The idea is to host a League final here, although this might take some time. Our immediate goal is to be in the top six for the season, and launch our under-20 side.”

Thanks to a fine coaching combination and the peak fitness levels of players, Mr Swanepoel now awaits the challenge of 16 matches and no off weekends.

He believes condition and depth should see the team through.

“Injuries are inevitable but we need replacements ready to take their place.”

The string of pre-season friendlies for Highlanders begins each weekend as of January 27, and the team urges the public to join in.

One of the attractions of 2016 will definitely be Sharks players in action.

“Other clubs have top calibre players who will compete, so locals can get to see them. Another commitment from the Sharks is that two contracted players are allocated to us – there could be a top player coming to Newcastle.”

The advancement of Highlanders to the next level marks a personal goal for Mr Swanepoel, made possible by the team bringing home the Dewar Shield.

“We have earned our right to be here, and to move forward,” he concluded proudly.