Easter Jumpers Rugby Club lived up to their name in every way by winning the Moko Sports Foundation’s 3rd Annual Easter Tournament of Orange Fridays at eZihlahleni outside Qonce (King William’s Town) on Monday, April 1.
In a recent statement by the Moko Sports Foundation, it was announced that the men from Mantaneni have emerged as the champions, securing the title and a R50,000 grand prize. The victory comes after four days of fiercely contested competition, which saw participation from 32 teams representing both the Eastern and Western Cape regions.
“The intention of the Third Annual Easter Tournament, played each year at the Moko Sports Complex in eZihlahleni, is to make inroads against players’ lack of exposure to high-level rugby leagues that limits their chances to showcase their skills and attract attention from talent scouts who can advance their careers in the sport.
“The Moko Sports Foundation was established five years ago by Eastern Cape philanthropist Siyabulela Moko to offer rural youth opportunities to participate in sport and break free of the social ills present in their communities,” the statement said.
Eastern Jumpers defeated Strong Wave Rugby Club in Monday afternoon’s final, after the sides saw off Sunrise and Homeboys in in the semi-finals.
“Strong Wave received R30 000 in prize money as the second-placed team while the remainder of the total R118 000 on offer was shared between the teams that placed third and fourth as well as individual category winners,” the statement added.
Teams were drawn from Cape Town, East London, Gqeberha, Qonce, Fort Beaufort, Keiskammahoek and communities surrounding Debe Nek.
Dignitaries, including Eastern Cape Premier Oscar Mabuyane, attended the event.
“His [Mabuyane] visit was an incredible opportunity for us, and we want to express our gratitude for the Premier’s time and engagement with us. We do not take this honour lightly and we are truly excited about the possibilities that lie ahead,” Moko said.
“We firmly believe in the power of collaboration, and we are eager to work hand in hand with the government in advancing sports in our beloved country. Together, we can make a significant impact and create positive change for our communities through sports.”
Moko was equally appreciative of the attendance of MECs and mayors as well as private sector representatives, whose presence “underscored the significance of our collective efforts to promote sports development and youth empowerment in our communities”.
Funds raised by an auction, he said, would further bolster the Foundation’s mission to provide opportunities for aspiring athletes and foster a culture of inclusivity and excellence in sports.
“Your support is instrumental in driving positive change and making a tangible difference in the lives of countless individuals.”
Through initiatives such as the Youth Empowerment through Sport (YES) programmes, Girl Power in Sports campaign, Community Sports Hubs and the Sports for Special Abilities Inclusion Project, youngsters falling under Moko Foundation programmes blossom as individuals in an environment that promotes gender equality and inclusivity.
Spectators at the Easter Tournament, who revelled in the fantastic atmosphere created by local musicians and local rugby legends in attendance, were also able to enjoy the final of the Ray Mali Foundation T20 cricket tournament as well as short- and long-distance horseracing.
