Chronicle-2023

165 164 SEVENS RUGBY JUNIOR TEAM Back row (L-R): Tunga Griffiths, Hluma Mnqokoyi, Robert Gelderman, Njabulo Sigasa, James Whatmore, Lethu Mhlaba 3rd row: Lukholo Mvuyana, Kai McCormick, Clement Makelele, Mothapo Kekana, Matthew Wilson, Ethan Badish 2nd row: Mcebisi Zulu, Daniel Hunwick, Thabiso Khanyile, Aston Metzler, Troy Bizzell, Mofenyi Mampuru, Sebastian Hunwick, Dylan Watkins Front row: Oliver Ludwig, Luke Fauré, Mr Neil van Heerden, Lwazi Mbebe, Mr Luke van As, Keanu Williamson, Levi Edwards Absent: Mr Keegan Daniel, Hayden Swart and Lwandle Mkhize Junior Sevens Rugby The boys were fresh off their long three-week July holiday and were eager to begin the season. We carefully designed a fitness block to test the team, as there was very little time to prepare for the first tournament, which was played at Hilton. I applaud the boys’ efforts, as playing sevens tournaments week in and week out is challenging. The team showed determination and achieved some unbelievable results against tough opposition. On two occasions, we were knocked out in the semi-finals, and it was fair to say that we had what it took to get all the way, but unfortunately, due to the nature of the game, we were beaten by the better team on the day. I thank the players for their commitment over the course of the season, the parents for their continuous support. To my fellow coaches Mr Neil van Heerden and Mr Keegan Daniels, I thank you for your significant contributions. I wish the boys well for next season and I have no doubt that they will bring the same competitive spirit next year as they did this year. Regular players: Ethan Badish, Troy Bizzell, Levi Edwards, Luke Faure, Robert Gelderman, Tunga Griffiths, Daniel Hunwick, Sebastian Hunwick, Mothapo Kekana, Thabiso Khanyile, Oliver Ludwig, Bayanda Madide, Clement Makelele, Mofenyi Mampuru, Lwazi Mbebe, Kai McCormick, Aston Metzler, Lethu Mhlaba, Lwandle Mkhize, Hluma Mnqokoyi, Lukholo Mvuyana, Sabelo Sigasa, Hayden Swart, Dylan Watkins, James Whatmore, Keanu Williamson, Matthew Wilson, Mcebisi Zulu Mr Luke van As Coach the top points scorer and best defender, recognising the outstanding efforts of our players. At the end of the season, we celebrated the overall top points scorer and best defenders. Valentino Lenge secured the top points scorer title for the Open A team, and Evan Powers claimed the same honour for the Open B team. In the category of best defenders, Heinrich Fourie stood out for the Open A team, and Ndabs Mkhize displayed exceptional defensive prowess for the B team. In the spirit of camaraderie and good-natured humour, we also introduced a special award this season, the "Wooden Spoon Award." This award recognises Simanye Mlakalaka for his extraordinary feat of earning 24 caps and not scoring a point. It is a testament to Simanye's dedication and commitment to the team. In summary, the 2023 Rugby Sevens season at Kearsney College was enjoyable and rewarding. Our teams’ hard work, commitment to excellence, and unwavering determination were outstanding. We have improved our performance, developed crucial skills, savoured every moment of the rugby sevens experience, and fostered a strong team culture. We extend our gratitude to the players, coaches, parents, and supporters who have driven our success. We look forward to building on this foundation in the future. Mr Mike de Kock Mr Tera Mtembu Coaches

RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTc3MDU5Nw==