147 Centenary Edition Special mention must be made of a few stand-out players. Our captain, Devahn van der Walt, who unceasingly motivated and inspired the team both on and off the field and was a constant thorn in the opposition’s side. His talent and hard work were rewarded with selection to the KZN U16 Grant Khomo side. Likhona Nunwana, Siso France, Salusiwe Mqobongo and Ben Livesey were selected for the U16 KZN B side. It was a privilege to work with this team of young men and watch them grow in ability and character. I thank my assistant coach Mr Ryan Horne for his expert knowledge and dedication and our biokineticist, Mr AJ Roos, for always being on hand to treat any injuries. Results: Played 2, Won 1, Lost 1 Mr Neil van Heerden and Mr Ryan Horne Coaches Under 16B Rugby Players: Luke Bartlett, Hayden Bishop, Jordan Boyd, Callam Currin, Siyen Gounden, Ethan Groom (Captain), Dominic Hislop, Matt Langeland-Hansen, Bonga Mbhele, Ross McClelland, Solethu Mdladla, Sim Mkhize (Captain), Callan Osborne, Rohan Paul, Kyle Pottinger, Jack Rankin, Guy Roberts, Jaryd Savic, Marcus Scheepers, Troye Schulz, Neo Scott, Zwelitsha Sibanyoni, Liam Theunissen The 2021 U16B rugby season consisted of only two games characterised by inconsistent intensity levels and a failure to convert field position and possession into points. Kearsney dominated the first quarter of the much-hyped season opener against Michaelhouse, but despite spending much time and winning penalties deep within the opponent’s half, the boys reached half-time two tries down and with only three points on the board. The team managed to play with more precision in the second half and scored two well-worked tries to bring themselves back into the game, but Michaelhouse were able to close the game out in the final moments. Despite a drastically different starting line-up, the second game against Northwood followed a similar script. A lacklustre first half marked by poor defensive play around the breakdown allowed Northwood to amass a lead of 20-0 by the break. However, a renewed second-half effort led by powerful runs by the eighth man Jack Rankin allowed Kearsney to dominate play with a real show of intent. The initial deficit proved too much to overcome, but the boys left the field with their heads held high. Sadly, shortly after the second match, the season ended abruptly. However, the players learned about taking opportunities when they arose and maintaining focus throughout all 60 minutes. Results: Played 2, Lost 2 Mr Jonathan Waldburger Coach Under 16C Rugby Players: Ross Williams, Kieran Pearton, Okuhle Khupe, Tom Larson, Tiaan Steyn, Levi Wilcox, Roderick Tayler, Jacque Nel, Luc Jonker, Adam Zeiler, Thando Sithole, Marcus Scheepers, Njabulo Ngcobo, Seth Abrahams, Dylan van Tonder, Thomas Hulse, Blessings Chiluba, Aiden Albrecht, Nicholas Butler, Asavela Mfazwe, Aaron Osborn The results certainly do not reflect the season accurately. The team kept changing due to injuries and other issues with the teams above us. However, the boys played with heart, and their commitment was commendable. They were getting into their stride when the season was, unfortunately, cut short due to the pandemic. Results: Played 2, Lost 2 Mr Senzo Mtshali Coach Under 16D Rugby Players: Aiden Albrecht, Riku Boshoff, Nicholas Butler, Blessings Chiluba, Tom Godwin, Thomas Hulse, Rocco Klomfass, Tom Larson, Ethan McCormick, Asavela Mfazwe, Harvey Millard (Captain), Njabulo Ngcobo, Aaron Osborne, Kieran Pearton, James Radford, Daniel Riceman, Samuel Schmitz, Neo Scott, Mihlali Sigonyela, Thando Sithole, Tiaan Steyn (Vicecaptain), Roderick Tayler, Ryan Taylor, Levi Wilcox, Phila Mayeza COVID-19 reared its unwanted head again this year and severely curtailed what promised to be an exciting rugby season. As a result, only two fixtures were completed. Practices were often affected by sick or isolating boys, so it was tough to achieve structure. Game plans were often hampered by fluidity in team selection, but the boys and I tried our best to cope in these challenging conditions. Our first game was against a welldrilled Michaelhouse side which was fortunate to have been in a lockdown phase at the school and could train unimpeded as a team. Although we played for each other and showed tenacity, we were outgunned and went down 5-57. We focused intently on team dynamics and skill levels. In our next game, we were infinitely better against a competent Northwood side, drawing 19-19. After the disappointment against Michaelhouse, we faced the season with renewed vigour and optimism. Sadly, that did not materialise as the virus had the last say. Hopefully, the pandemic will allow much more in 2022. I look forward to further growth and successes from this band of merry warriors as they enter the ranks of open rugby in 2022. Results: Played 2, Won 1, Drew 1 Mr André van Zyl Coach U16B’s Matt Langeland-Hansen U16A’s Lihle Maqhugula
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