161 160 Results: Played 12, Won 9, Lost 2, Drew 1 Mr Keegan Daniel Coach and Author Mr Luke van As Coach Mr Waylon Murray Coach Under 14B Rugby The season began with a bunch of nervous grade 8s who were still figuring out their place in a new school. However, they shared a common goal: to represent the badge and to make a name for themselves. I applaud the boys’ effort during the preseason, as it was not easy. This is where this group of gentlemen put up their hands and I soon realised that we would be a force to be reckoned with. Our theme of the year was ‘White Knuckles’, which meant fighting until the bitter end and having a never-say-die attitude. I can honestly say that the boys bought into this theme and played every game with this attitude. The highlight of the season would be our famous win against Glenwood. Due to St Charles not having enough teams, we had to play Glenwood a second time on our Founders Day, away from home. We had a disappointing result when we played them the first time round, and there was uncertainty in the camp as we were prepared for another titanic battle. The boys showed some of the most incredible resilience and determination I have seen on a rugby pitch. We emerged with a 22-20 victory against a well-balanced and talented Glenwood side. The boys represented the College in a manner that cannot be described, and I will cherish that moment forever. I encourage them to tackle every difficult situation the way they approached this game. I want to take this opportunity to mention Captain Courageous, Wandile Sibisi, who led from the front all season long and was an unbelievable mentor to the team. I want to thank the parents for their continuous support throughout the season. Thank you to the boys who made this season memorable. You have been a privilege to coach and I look forward to watching you in the future. Results: Played 9, Won 5, Lost 4 Under 14C/D Rugby The teams consisted of many enthusiastic and determined Grade 8 learners who either had previous rugby experience from primary school, or who were new to the sport and eager to participate. The focus was on developing fundamental rugby skills, such as passing, positioning, scrummaging, and teamwork. While the results were not the primary focus, they were not completely disregarded. Encouragement and camaraderie among teammates were emphasised, particularly during Saturday fixtures against formidable opponents. The learners maintained a positive attitude and showed consistent improvement each week. The final fixture was a well-deserved grand finale, during which the boys effectively distributed the ball from one side of the field to the other, leaving the opposition confused and disorganised. It was a remarkable demonstration of rugby skills and finesse. The young men’s eagerness to learn and openness to novel ideas and experiences allowed them to achieve a level of on-field excellence that many could only dream of. At the start of the season, there were two separate teams; however, due to various illnesses and ailments, the decision was made to combine the teams into a single squad. One of the key highlights of the season was the impressive 51-0 victory over Hilton College in the final fixture. This victory showcased the culmination of the skills practised and executed effectively on game day. Several of our regular players found themselves moving up to the B team, either as starters or substitutes, as a direct result of their determination to progress and improve. It was a typical season characterised by triumphs and setbacks and the inevitable injuries that come with the game. Regardless of the outcome, the squad deserves credit for consistently showing up and giving their best effort. The team culture, work ethic, and coach-player relationship consistently improved, reaching its peak towards the end of the season with some outstanding rugby being played. A special thank you is owed to all the parents for their unwavering support and understanding, recognising that the result of the game is not the be-all and end-all, but rather that the boys should have fun and develop themselves according to their abilities and personal growth. Regular players: Leo Brown, Njabulo Dlamini, Xolo Dlungwana, Aston Grace, James Hollins, James Hughes, Ayanda Khanye, Itumeleng Kubheka, Bayanda Madide, Tebogo Malatsi, Bryce Marchand, Craig McKenzie, Bayanda Mdluli, Taun Mitchell, Siphesihle Mncibi, Melokuhle Mthethwa, Zizo Nodada, Okuhle Phungula, Keegan Simpson, Zoya Sindane, Monde Sithole, Nkuleko Sithole, Connor Skewis, Luphawu Socikwa, Luke Tedder, Dylan Watkins, Tyler Wright Results: Played 14, Won 4, Lost 10 Mr Divesh Sookdeo Mr Sanele Ngema Mr Samuel Pietersen U14C and U14D Coaches
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