Rugby stories delve into history

The stories Philani Nongogo’s father told him sparked his desire to write about the history of black rugby in SA.

This culminated — 23 years later — in a book, titled Umbhoxo:

Making Rugby an Afrikan Game, which was launched on Thursday.

It was co-written by Nongogo, Buntu Siwisa, Hendrik Snyders and Mzukisi Twala.

“My dad was a rugby player who got injured.

“He was fascinated how the sport was played and organised.

“He used to narrate these stories,” Nongogo said.

There was always a lesson in each of his father’s stories, he said.

“After I finished my honours in sports science, I decided to honour him and the stories he used to tell.”

He spoke to many elderly people to fill in the gaps while doing his research.

“Readers can expect a book about the history of African people’s rugby experiences.

“From the 1800s up to 1992, it explains why we see the likes of Siya Kolisi, Lukhanyo Am, and all of the black players in the team.

“The ancestors of these guys paid the dues for them to be there.

“They have a history; they are standing on the shoulders of the giants who were in the game,” Nongogo said.

He said rugby was popular, with the sport played on weekends in townships.

“Municipalities and those in the different tiers of government have to build more facilities for these communities.”

He completed most of his research for the book between 2001 and 2003, while completing his studies at the University of Fort Hare.

“I had started reading, travelling, and talking to old people trying to verify all the information I gathered.”

“I also read old newspapers,” he said.

Nongogo said many people had been very helpful along the journey.

“I found some important documents on African rugby, Daily Dispatch supplements and the Izimvo Zabantsundu newspaper.”