Rugby spirit wins the day with a single try
MBOMBELA - Penryn and Uplands, two rival schools in the Lowveld, demonstrated on Saturday April 20 that rugby can unite even the fiercest rivalries for the greater good.
This unity lead to Cameron Meyer, a learner with cerebral palsy, scoring a try.
Meyer was supported and celebrated by his friends and Penryn teammates and by the Uplands players.
“It’s a poignant reminder of the unifying power of sport,” said Keagan du Preez, coach of the U14 and U16 rugby teams and a teacher at Penryn.
‘He’s incredibly committed, attending every rugby practice and simply wanting to be involved’
He describes Cameron, a Grade 10 learner of Penryn College, as an extraordinary individual, despite the challenges posed by cerebral palsy. “He’s incredibly committed, attending every rugby practice and simply wanting to be involved,” Du Preez added.
Du Preez, understanding the cultural and unifying aspects of sports, arranged for Cameron to participate in the game, with enthusiastic support from Uplands. Inspired by Cameron’s dedication, he orchestrated a special opportunity for him to score a try alongside his teammates in the 2024 PenrynUplands Derby on April 20.
Cameron, carried by his teammates, scored this try.
Cameron’s mother, Nicole, echoed Du Preez’s sentiments, emphasising the privilege of participating in sports and its
Ordinary people doing extraordinary things
impact on the community. She recalled Penryn’s inclusive ethos, in which all children are encouraged to participate in sports from an early age. Despite being told it was too risky for him to play rugby in high school, Cameron remained undeterred. Instead, he contributed in various capacities.
Nicole refers to him as a young Rassie Erasmus.
Expressing gratitude to the Uplands boys for the opportunity, Nicole praised their co-operation and willingness, without which Cameron’s moment wouldn’t have been possible.
This display of strength and compassion by the 16-year-old boys left a lasting impression on Nicole.
For Du Preez, witnessing the Uplands boys’ celebration with Cameron was truly special.