155 154 It was a privilege and an honour to coach the U16A team of 2023. They were a fine group of boys who worked deliberately at practice and tried very hard during the games. The win/loss statistics do not do justice to the team's valiant efforts. Fortunately, many lessons were learned during the season, and they improved as rugby players and young men. The pre-season programme focused on developing the players' general skills, creating a solid team culture, building more tactical awareness of open play and maintaining an effective defensive block. The boys were enthusiastic and worked efficiently in the sessions. A short tour to the Eastern Free State effectively developed the team, as the two workouts helped the coaches identify their strengths and weaknesses. The season opener against Clifton was a successful encounter, as the team won 29-5, playing some positive rugby and dominating in all aspects. The team then participated in the Skonk Nicholson U16 rugby festival at Maritzburg College during the Easter holidays. Although the team lost all three encounters, the determination and resilience were encouraging. Five straight defeats followed at the resumption of the season after the Easter break, but the players got better with each game and never gave up in those matches. Seeing the boys defend their try-line with conviction and confidently play some free-flowing rugby was heartwarming. The highlight of the season was the 45-14 win against St Charles on the Stott, which was just reward for the efforts put in during a difficult season. During the match the players applied what they had practised and overwhelmed the opposition with a high-tempo game. As a coach, I could not be more proud of these young men who represented the College with honour, dignity and resilience. When their character was tested, they stood up to the challenge and never shied away from the physicality of the game. They loved playing the game together and built bonds off the field with each other that will last forever. When one forgets about winning or losing but focuses on the educational components of the RUGBY UNDER 16A TEAM Back row (L-R): Joseph Roylance, Simo Mnqokoyi 3rd row: Ndabenhle Mkhize, Billy Keka, Luca Sandri, Ewald Booyens 2nd row: Awande Hadebe, Calum Skewis, Carl Jansen van Vuuren, Jamie van Wyk, Luke Patterson, Cole Young Front row: Milo Matikinca, James Pohl, Mr Mouton Badenhorst, Simanye Mlakalaka, Mr Dean Moodley, Bukho Hlwatika. Aya Jikwana Under 16A Rugby game, only then will one truly see the value of schoolboy rugby. Results: Played 8, Won 2, Lost 6 Dean Moodley Mouton Badenhorst Coaches Under 16B Rugby The 2023 rugby season has drawn to a close, and while the win-loss column may not reflect a string of victories, our team’s journey has been marked by determination, growth, and a relentless spirit. In a season where we secured only three wins, our commitment to rugby and each other has shone through, leaving a lasting impression on players and coaches. The game against Hilton was the highlight of our season. We did not start the game well and were down 5-17 at half time. The boys fought back in the second half with two unconverted tries, leaving the score 15-17. With time up, the boys managed to win a penalty in front of the poles, which they took quickly twice without success. Finally, we decided to go for poles to win the game, and Callum Skewis kicked the penalty for us to secure an 18-17 victory. The experiences gained from this season will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the player’s trajectory moving forward. It’s important to remember that success is not always measured solely by wins and losses, but by the progress made individually and collectively. I thank all my players for the amazing commitment and dedication shown this season. Watching you boys turn into fine young men has been an honour and a privilege. I thank Jordan du Preez for all the help this season. Regular players: Ewald Booyens, Siyamthanda Duma, Keaton Gaines, James Hastings-Brown, Awande Hadebe, Kgosana Hekandjo, Jac Hodge, Carl Jansen van Vuuren, Billy Keka, Awande Kheswa, Amu Khuzwayo, Kwande Majola, Kantse Masilo, Callum McGill, Luca Mindry, Tobs Mngomezulu, Simo Mnqokoyi, Thembelani Nzama, Ryan Osborn, Josh Painting, Luke Patterson, Kyle Pullock, Hlako Rachidi, Calum Skewis, Robert Smith, Jude Wilcox Results: Played 9, Won 3, Lost 6 Mr Terrence Boyce Mr Jordan du Preez Coaches Under 16C Rugby This season we faced many injuries, making it difficult to have consistency in team selections. Nevertheless, the team turned up each week excited to tackle the next opponents. They attacked each training session with energy and enthusiasm. They grew in maturity and confidence as the season progressed and I must commend them for their energy and heart, shown each time we gathered. The team had a goal to enjoy the season, and they enjoyed the opportunity to play together as an age group before going to the open age group. The boys never gave up and had pride in their maroon jerseys. I thoroughly enjoyed coaching this group of boys. They were serious when necessary, and knew how to put a smile on my face. While the results were not what we wanted, there was tremendous growth in both the players and myself. I want to thank the parents for their constant support,t and the players for always playing to the best of their abilities. The “C-stripe” will always be the team that reminded me never to give up. Regular players: Cullan Abrahams, Matthew Blair, Kai Cele, Qhayiya Dilinga, Keaton Gaines, James Hastings-Brown, Oliver Hind, Nhlakanipho Hlongwane, Tyler Jelliman, Kunashe Kamwendo, Tjama Keta, Lefa Kgomo, Mnikelo Madlala, Kwande Majola, Kwandile Majola, Sisanda Makhathini, Mabutho Makhaye, Kantse Masilo, Callum McGill, Seth Millican, Luke Minne, Bandile Mkhabela, Tendekayi Moto, Nkolo Mthembu, Riley Nadauld, Ryan Osborn, Thayuren Pillay, Travis Rae, Ariv Raidoo, James Sim, Robert Smith, William Smith, PJ Snyman, Gustav Swanepoel, Oliver Tubb, Connor van Heerden, Jude Wilcox Results: Played 8, Won 1, Lost 7 Mr Stephan Joubert Coach
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