Weekend Argus (Saturday Edition)
Rugby players in cash drive for trip of a lifetime
IN A RACE to raise funds to take more than 30 rugby members on tour in Malaysia next year, the Jointly Building Communities Foundation urged the public to support its Golf Day at the Royal Burgundy Mashie Golf Course in Richwood from 9am tomorrow.
Most players and staff members are from Bellville South and coach Russell Carelse said due to social challenges affecting many in the community they had decided to be proactive and start helping one another make the trip a reality.
Each participant needs R35 000, and the Golf Day is their first big event to raise funds. He said all proceeds would be split among members.
Some are playing in the Western Province team as well, and he pleaded with citizens to join the event or make a donation.
Funds would cover travelling costs, 12 days' accommodation, meals, and sport equipment.
“The 12 days travel experience will be turned into an educational and cultural involvement programme between youth (players) and officials (managers and coaches),” said Carelse.
“Besides playing we are also going to be involved in cultivating meaningful connections between communities of the two countries.
“The travelling group won't just see the sights in Malaysia, they will meet people, live the cultures and have a better understanding of Malaysia.
“This is one of the few big opportunities our children are getting since the Covid-19 and a great platform to explore and grow.
“Even what seemed to be a small contribution will make a huge difference to us,” said Carelse.
Assistant coach Beyonce Gordon, 20, said they entered a competition with the Cape Flats 7s earlier this year which saw them appointed to take part as the Starter Academy Dream Team.
“I've never travelled out of South Africa so this would be a good platform and exciting adventure to be on.
“And of course I'll be doing what I love the most.
“Rugby has taught me so many things on and off the field and it takes hard work, dedication most of all. It takes discipline to get where we at,” said Gordon.
Nineteen-year-old Alicia Solomons said although wearing the Springboks jersey in August remained her greatest source of pride, it was an opportunity she was eagerly looking forward to,” said Solomons.
“We plan on giving back to the community for supporting us,” Solomons said.
They will be taking along two junior teams of girls and boys.
For more information call Beyonce Gordon at 084 019 6531 or Russell Carelse at 078 609 4565.
“Even what seemed to be a small contribution will make a huge difference to us
RUSSELL CARELSE Head coach