AMANZIMTOTI Rugby Club’s (ARC) Michael Gibbley won 1st Team Player of the Year and the Dennis Visser Players’ Player of the Year awards at the club’s year-end prize-giving.

The 27-year-old, who has been playing rugby for 20 years, said it was nice to get noticed for his hard work and dedication.

Also read: Amanzimtoti soccer players receive recognition, awards

Reflecting on his first year at the club, Gibbley said, “I think we started off the season a bit slow as a team, struggling to gel. But, with some improvement and our A-class coaches, we started gelling as a team and ended the year playing some outstanding rugby.”

His rugby journey, which began in primary school, showcases his love and dedication to the sport. “I love rugby because it’s a physical sport, and you make lifelong friends on and off the field,” said Gibbley.

Playing in various positions, but favouring eighth man, his experience includes stints with the U16 Pumas, Limpopo Blue Bulls at U20, and the Rhinos U23 South African league team, where he played two test matches against Australia.

After a four-year break due to a lack of rugby in Ladysmith, he was thrilled to be back on the field and is now looking forward to the upcoming season.

When Gibbley is not playing rugby, he enjoys quality time with family, hunting and fishing.

DID YOU KNOW?

Click on the words highlighted in red to read more on this and related topics. To receive news links via WhatsApp or Telegram, send an invite to 061 694 6047.

Do you have more information pertaining to this story? Feel free to let us know by commenting on our Facebook page or you can contact our newsroom at 031 903 2341 and speak to a journalist.

(Comments posted on this issue may be used for publication in the Sun)