Following him successfully leading of the Junior Springboks to glory at the recent World Rugby Under-20 Championships in Italy at the weekend, Stellenbosch local Riley Norton paid a special visit to the office of Stellenbosch executive mayor, Jeremy Fasser, earlier today (Thursday 24 July).
The visit allowed Fasser to personally congratulate the Paul Roos Gymnasium old boy on his incredible achievement.
VICTORY AFTER DROUGHT
Norton and the rest of the under-20 South African rugby squad arrived back on home soil with the coveted silverware on Tuesday (22 July). Their 23-15 victory over the Junior All Blacks in the final in Rovigo on Saturday evening, saw them break a 13-year drought for South Africa, who last won the age-group tournament on home soil in 2012.
“Riley is an inspiration to so many young sportspeople across our municipality – young boys and girls who look up to him and dare to dream, knowing that success is possible. Riley, you’ve made Stellenbosch and South Africa proud,” Fasser said.
BORN AND BRED IN STELLIES
A true son of the City of Oaks, Norton’s journey began at Rhenish Primary School, continued through Paul Roos Gimnasium and now sees him studying at Stellenbosch University. “He has not only represented South Africa with pride, but has carried the Stellenbosch name onto the international stage,” a statement from Stellenbosch Municipality reads.
But Norton’s talents don’t stop at rugby; this multitalented sportsman also represented South Africa at the Under-19 Cricket World Cup last year (“Riley makes his mark on the pitch“, Eikestadnuus, 1 February 2024).
CONVERSATIONS APLENTY
During the visit, Fasser was joined by Ward 22 councillor Esther Groenewald, along with Riley’s proud parents, Chris and Andi, residents of Ward 22. Also in attendance were Municipal manager Geraldine Mettler, incoming Mayoral Committee member for Youth, Sport and Culture, Ndipiwe Olayi (a fellow PRG old boy), and outgoing Mayoral Committee member Tammy Kumm.
During the visit, the company chatted to Riley about his journey throughout the tournament, the training and nerves, the joy of lifting the trophy and his future sporting ambitions.
“A hearty congratulations on your remarkable achievements, Riley! On behalf of the Stellenbosch Municipal Council and every rugby fan in our region, we wish you well in your future endeavours. Stellenbosch is behind you all the way!” Fasser said.
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