GEORGE – The 2026 Ebrahim Patel Community Cup (EPCC) was officially launched at an inspiring evening that celebrated more than just rugby – it honoured the enduring legacy of unity, inclusivity, and community development in South African sport.
The launch, held at Fancourt in George on Thursday 26 February, began with Pastor Fernando Fredericks leading the gathering in prayer, setting a dignified tone as he reminded attendees that sport has the power to unite communities and inspire hope.
The opening reflection perfectly captured the spirit that the late Ebrahim Patel embodied throughout his life.
A powerful highlight came through a moving video message from Suhail Patel, grandson of the tournament’s namesake. Speaking on behalf of the Patel family, he encouraged players to compete with the passion, integrity and respect that defined his grandfather’s leadership in South African rugby during some of the country’s most challenging times.
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Dignitaries present
The evening showcased impressive rugby leadership support. SWD Rugby president Ben Brinkhuys expressed pride in the region’s involvement, acknowledging the collective effort that has built EPCC into a respected national platform.
Eastern Province Rugby Union president George Malgas pledged full support and called on SA Rugby to actively back such initiatives nationally.
SA Rugby executive committee member Hennie Baartman reflected on Patel’s unwavering commitment to fairness during rugby’s divided era, describing EPCC as a living reminder of those values.
The presence of former Springbok Ashwin Willemse and former national coach Stanley Reubenheimer added significant stature to the event, with both recently conducting rugby clinics at local high schools – embodying the development principles Patel championed.
Commercial backing continued to grow, with Score Energy Drink announced as a Tier 1 Sponsor. Halfway Hyundai Knysna was confirmed as the official vehicle sponsor, with dealer principal Jacques Fourie encouraging additional corporate partners to embrace the tournament’s vision of meaningful community impact alongside brand visibility.
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Growing beyond rugby
Beyond rugby, EPCC 2026 demonstrated its commitment to lasting community development. BMT Training and Development announced that unemployed youth will be trained as security officers and patrol personnel, receiving formal certification that enables future employment opportunities.
Swanns Bus Services offered reduced ticket prices for supporters, ensuring broader community access to the tournament experience.
Tournament director Romano Lekay reflected on the remarkable journey from the tournament’s humble beginnings: “The Ebrahim Patel Community Cup started with only two teams and a simple vision – to create a platform for community rugby excellence and to give honour where honour is due. Today, we welcome eight of the best community clubs in South Africa.”
Get your tickets
A key announcement highlighted the upcoming Ebrahim Patel Memorial Lecture, featuring SA Rugby president Mark Alexander, Golden Lions president Neville Jardine and rugby stalwart Makaya Jack. This platform reinforces EPCC’s commitment to preserving rugby history and celebrating leadership beyond the field.
The 2026 tournament will take place at Outeniqua Park in George from Thursday 2 to Monday 6 April. Weekend passes cost R120, with day passes at R50, available online at www.epccup.com.
As Lekay concluded: “As long as we stand together – the legacy of Ebrahim Patel will never fade.”
The EPCC 2026 promises to be more than a rugby tournament; it promises to be a celebration of community pride, shared values and the enduring power of sport to unite and inspire.
The tournament’s first round of fixtures for 2 April are: PE Harlequins vs Blanco (16:00); Robertson Town vs Kruisfontein (17:35); Safcol United vs Heidelberg (19:40); and Botrivier vs Bridgton (21:15).
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