A sevens rugby tournament will be hosted at Gustrouw Sports Grounds next Saturday (5 October) in a bid to raise funds to cover the tour expenses of talented Strand rugby player Ashley Grootboom.
The 17-year-old speedster has been selected for the Paul Roos Gymnasium rugby team that will tour to Abu Dhabi in the UAE next month.
The Grade 11 learner plays inside centre for the Stellenbosch school’s under-19 team. He was selected for the tour based on his past performances and is revelling in the opportunity of a lifetime.
“I think it’s a great opportunity for me to experience different conditions and measure up against some of the top schools from around the world,” he said.
Players have to raise their own funds for the trip, amounting to R25 000 and Ashley said his father, Lesley, who is also the team manager of Strand Rugby Club, pitched the idea for a sevens rugby tournament.
“My three brothers and I decided a sevens tournament will work well in the Helderberg area,” said Grootboom senior. “This region has some of the best sevens players and sevens teams, as well as social clubs and, seeing the sevens season starts now, we thought this will be a great idea. It is also a game Ashley loves. We urge the greater community to come out and show their full support for their teams and for the fundraiser.
“We also urge individuals and businesses to sponsor anything they can. I hope Ashley can reach his goals. His first goal is to be selected to the Paul Roos Gymnasium’s first team in 2025. He is a hardworking boy and wants to excel in everything he does. The tour to Abu Dhabi will be a great experience for him,” Grootboom added.
A total of R14 000 in prize money will be handed to the winners of this week’s sevens tournament, including R10 000 to the cup winners.
Registration for the tournament is R1 000 per team and there are still slots available. Food stalls will also be available on the day and lots of family entertainment is guaranteed.
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For more information or to support Ashley, phone Grootboom on 079 032 4294.
