Highlanders gain the ascendancy

Things are looking up for Newcastle Highlanders Rugby Club.

The team finished its League matches on July 8, and compared to last season, has shown considerable improvement on and off the field.

With the knockout stage looming, it was a time for reflection.

Head coach, Andre Swanepoel explained the draw for this round of matches was scheduled for July 24 at Growthpoint Kings Park.

The team is ready to face all comers going forward.

“The first team won three games this season, compared to one last season. We also came close to beating Pietermaritzburg Impis, Richards Bay and Empangeni Rhinos.”

Highlanders II won nine games in total this season, ending with the same amount of log points as Durban Collegians.

The local second team was only three points behind top position, College Rovers.

“Highlanders II had an exceptional season, turning the season around after three massive victories against it. The team really excelled.”

Crowning the phenomenal season for Highlanders was the third team, which clinched a Third Division victory for the third consecutive year.

Highlanders III will face Hluhluwe on July 29 for the Findlay Cup.

The under-20 side is itching for the new season, after college strikes across the province saw the under-20 league called off.

“With many young players coming up the ranks, the future of the club looks bright.”

Swanepoel will also remember this season as being the first to have a local player selected for the junior Sharks team.

Ruan Fourie made his debut last Saturday against the EP Kings.

As a member of the under-19 Sharks Currie Cup squad, Ruan was part of a stellar 43-13 victory over the Kings.

Elsewhere in South Africa, locals are making as much of an impact.

Frikkie Hendricks and Shane van Rooyen were both loaned to Mpumalanga’s under-20 Pumas side, and made their Currie Cup under-20 debuts this season.

“Frikkie has played four games already while Shane played his first recently.”

With all the positivity however, Highlanders was also struck a cruel blow with news of the death of beloved coach and friend, Fanie du Plessis.

He passed away in July after a short illness.

Fanie represented ISCOR and Newcastle in younger years, before his appointment as Highlanders coach in 2002.

Under his guidance, the third team enjoyed several league victories.

In 2014, Fanie was advanced to the position of second team coach and spent a few successful years building up local players.

“Fanie, the club misses you dearly. Rest in peace.”

Aiming to put personal tragedy behind him and honour Fanie’s legacy, Swanepoel expressed his anticipation to the League knockout stages.

This could also include a few home matches.

“A huge thanks to all the loyal supporters who came out Saturday after Saturday to support Highlanders. Without you, we could never make it and we hope you enjoyed the rugby we played.”