Graham Seth Rooza (17), currently in Grade 11 at the Ben Viljoen High School in Groblersdal, made the Atlantis community proud after he was recently selected to represent the Limpopo Blue Bulls in the 2026 SA Schools youth u-18 Craven week.
Rooza started playing rugby when he was 11 years old while at Karria Primary School in Grade 5. From the first time he stepped onto the rugby field and developed a passion for the game and began representing Karria at primary school level.
In 2024, while at Robinvale Secondary School in Grade 9, he was selected to represent Western Province Under-16 at the Iqhawe Week tournament in Johannesburg. Being chosen to compete at that level was a proud moment and motivated him to continue working hard,
In 2026, he reached another important milestone when he was selected to represent the Limpopo Blue Bulls Under-18 team at the Craven Week tournament in Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth). Playing at Craven Week was a dream come true and one of the greatest achievements of hisrugby career so far. It was an incredible experience that helped him grow both as a player and as a person.
“Moving to Groblersdal to attend Ben Viljoen High School was not easy in the beginning,” he said.
Being far away from my family was challenging, but over time he adapted to his new environment. He made many good friends, and the school and community welcomed him with open arms. Today, he feels at home there and is grateful to have two families who love, support, and encourage him.
“I always listen carefully to others, treat people with respect, and enjoy helping those around me. I believe that discipline, humility, teamwork, and dedication are important values both on and off the rugby field. I work hard to improve every day and strive to be a positive role model for my teammates, my school, and my community,” he said
Rooza received an award for outstanding performance and achievements in rugby on Saturday 19 September at the Atlantis 50th Champions Awards.
His goal is to continue developing as a rugby player, represent his province and his country at the highest level, and make his family, coaches, community, and everyone who has supported him proud.
