Six of the Helderberg’s rugby clubs are set to start the season “early” with a friendly warm-up league set to kick-off this Friday (18 February) until 26 March – in anticipation of a busy and tough club rugby season that officially begins early in April.
Out of action and mostly out of funds for the better part of the past two years, the local clubs have banded together with a common goal of improving finances, attracting youngsters to the sport, building character and bringing the community back to the stadiums.
The clubs include Strand United, Strand RFC, Sir Lowrians, Macassar, St George’s and All Saints.
“It’s really exciting,” says Oesman Wentzel, chairperson of Strand United. “Each game will effectively be a derby.” He explained the club chairpersons came together to investigate how youth structures can be rebuilt following an exodus of players who “have found a life outside of rugby.
“The friendly matches will also serve as important warm-up fixtures ahead of the season, where teams can focus on fitness and strategy, and give the boys some playing time before the season begins.”
Riedhwaan Vermeulen, secretary of Strand RFC, added that the hosting of these clashes will give each team the opportunity to assess logistics on home ground, as each team will have a turn to host, taking rugby to communities at Gustrouw, Abattoir, Sir Lowry’s Pass, Macassar and Helderzicht sports ground.
“There are also no transport costs, which makes a massive difference in our communities,” he said.
“Many teams are also struggling with funds and this is a chance to help clubs start the season on a positive note.”
The friendly league will take place under the auspices of Western Province Rugby Football Union, and a “league team” will be selected to play the overall winners as a means of entertainment for the final.
“We really want to invite our community back to the grounds and create that rugby energy that has become synonymous with our communities,” Wentzel said.
“We also want to enrich our youth and give them opportunities to build confidence, and in the long term build on this friendly league as an annual event that just gets bigger and better.”This Saturday (19 February), All Saints will host Macassar at Helderzicht, Sir Lowrians will host Strand United in SLP, and Strand RFC play host to St George’s at Gustrouw.
Strict Covid-19 regulations will be in place, with a “no mask, no entry” applicable at all venues.
Alcohol is not allowed at games and entrance is set at R20 per person and R10 per car.
