Tenacity sets rugby talent apart at inter-district tourney

THREE days of superb rugby action at the SPAR KZN inter-district rugby tournament concluded on a gorgeous winter’s day at Woodburn Stadium on Saturday, 23 May, with three teams being announced to represent KZN.

The main game of the tournament was the finals in the U13A sides, the last game of the tournament between Durban Coastals and Southern KZN.

The surprise in the U13A category was the determined team from Southern KZN, their never-say-die attitude and relentless eagerness saw them win two games back to back, the first time in five years they have managed to win, and not only win but qualify for the finals.

An elated coach from Southern KZN, Warren Hitchings said: “I can’t explain how happy I am. The guys just clicked. The atmosphere in the team was fantastic; every single one of the guys backed each other on and off the field. It was an honour to be a part of.”

The coach, who hails from Pennington Primary, continued: “Each and every single one of them was, in my eyes a quality player, the best from our region and they did us proud. We only had three training sessions in the build-up to this tournament, guys travelled from Kokstad and Kuswag to Suid-Natal to come and train, their commitment evident from the very first session we had together.”

A delighted Durban Coastal’s coach, Brandon Hobbs from Glenwood Prep said after their team’s win: “We had good team spirit among our lads. They did really well, making it all the way. Some great talent. There were a few individuals who managed some game breakers in key plays. I was impressed how they all played well together as a team.”

KZN Midlands Primary Schools rugby chairman, Tiny Coetzee said: “I was delighted with how the tournament turned out. The weather was great, the games were hard and exciting and I believe every single one of the 330 boys enjoyed themselves.”

Talking about the selection process, Coetzee continued: “We have had a bit of a re-look at the selection structure. The guys who make the squads will have to go through another round to impress the selectors. Two U13 teams will travel to Bloemfontein to take part in the Bondedag, this will serve as their final trials as to who will be selected for the A or B side. The U13A team will head to the renowned Craven Week in Witrivier, Mpumalanga, while the U13B side will head to Sasolburg.”

“In the U12 division, we will come back to Pietermaritzburg for their final round of trials. The successful guys will then head onto Vryheid to represent KZN towards the end of July.”

“We are really pleased with the tremendous spirit and camaraderie evident in this tournament,” said Rob Philipson, MD of SPAR KZN. “From our point of view, SPAR encourages people to lead healthy lifestyles, and this tournament not only helps to develop strong and healthy bodies on the field, but also helps to grow and nurture healthy attitudes and team spirit. Well done to all those who participated, they are all winners to have got this far. We wish those who have been selected for the next level, the very best of luck, and we look forward to their future success.”

List of local teams: KZN U13A: Five C R De Bruyn (Southern KZN – Scottburgh Primary), 17 B Nortje (Southern KZN – Kuswag Skool).

KZN U13B: Six L Grobler (Southern KZN – Kuswag), 15 J Roets (Southern KZN – Amanzimtoti).