Sharks XV dine in Newcastle
The KwaZulu-Natal Rugby Union (KZNRU) has taken a new look at grassroots rugby.
VULINTABA – The KwaZulu-Natal Rugby Union (KZNRU) has taken a new look at grassroots rugby.
Speaking at a dinner function at Vulintaba Country Hotel last Friday, KZNRU President, Graham Mackenzie explained the decision to grow the sport at sub union level was long overdue.
“We get so caught up with having everything in Durban; we put ourself in their [sub union] shoes.”
Mr Mackenzie said the need arose to consider Newcastle a serious long-term venue for development of rugby.
Thus, more was envisioned in terms of future sporting events.
“We will possibly host a Super Rugby pre-season friendly in coming years.”
Casting his view ahead, Mr Mackenzie said growing rugby from school level up was important, as it was the future of the sport.
KZNRU has already identified rugby teams of Ferrum High School among the top rugby teams in this area.
Speaking on broader matters affecting the union and rugby as a whole, Mr Mackenzie elaborated on the resignation of John Smit.
“People criticise him, but don’t realise the money and effort he put in. He was a great servant of the union and we’ll miss him.”
Moving onto the contention surrounding Moses Mabhida Stadium, Mr Mackenzie touched on the settling of past acrimony and negotiations leading to ‘agreement in principle’.
However, he cautioned more consultation had to be done first.
As the leader of the KZNRU, Mr Mackenzie said numerous factors had to be considered, including developing clubs who frequently play curtain-raisers at Growthpoint Kings Park.
Financial and maintenance models were also critical.
“It’s a good move in some ways but we need to hash out the details first. No final decision has been made.”
His speech was preceded by Northern KZN Rugby Sub Union President, Peet van der Merwe.
Saturday, he explained, was only the second time a Sharks Currie Cup match was played outside of Durban.
“Thank you to Nico, Vulintaba and all sponsors.”
After the formal part of the evening concluded, two autographed rugby balls and two signed team jerseys were auctioned off.
The proceeds will benefit rugby development in Newcastle.
While the rugby balls fetched a seemingly modest R1 600 and R3 000 respectively, that amount was almost doubled with a R6 000 bid on the Super Rugby team of the Sharks.
Half of that bid on the Sharks XV signed jersey brought the total to R13 600.
