Springboks star Nchè visits local school

Farrarmere Primary School learners spent time inside the ‘Ox Kraal’ with World Cup winner and popular Springboks and Sharks prop Retshegofaditswe ‘Ox’ Nchè during the launch of the school’s rugby programme on February 22.

Nchè, considered one of the best scrummagers in the world, played a crucial role when the Springboks successfully defended the William Web Ellis Cup last year in France, after beating New Zealand 11-12 in the final.

The 28-year old was welcomed in song and dance by the eager learners who also presented him with cake after he famously celebrated winning the World Cup with a cheesecake.

Nchè, who coined ‘salads don’t win scrums’, spent time taking photos with the learners and teachers, shared words of wisdom with them and signed their shirts and balls.

The front rower highlighted the importance of discipline and working hard to achieve one’s goals, adding that he wouldn’t be where he is if it wasn’t for hard work.

“The most important thing about rugby is discipline and hard work. You have a dream but what are you willing to do to achieve it? That’s the most important thing. Stay focused, believe in your dreams and believe in yourself,” said Nchè.

He told the learners to always strive for the best and keep believing despite the socio-economic situation facing every South African and our status as a third-world country.

“In whatever you do, be the best you can be. When it comes to the Springboks, we always strive to be the best in the world. We live in a third world country but we compete with first world countries and we still managed to win the World Cup. We are considered the best in the world.

“To every single person in South Africa, it doesn’t matter what you are doing, we are hardworking people who are full of love. We are good people. We are from a third world country but that shouldn’t stop you from believing,” he said.

Deputy headmaster Derick Steffens said it was important to have a world cup-winning Springbok to motivate the learners.

“To have someone who has made it is the biggest start we can get. It was vital to have him here,” said Steffens.

“We are excited to introduce rugby at the school. We started with tag rugby about two years ago. We are going to roll over into an U9 league. We are going to teach the children how to play by introducing coaching clinics and playing in leagues and friendly matches.”

Grade Four learner Joshua Fink expressed his excitement after meeting his hero.

“I feel excited to see Ox. Watching him in the scrum dominating England and New Zealand in the World Cup was the best,” he said.

“I love rugby. I have a passion and talent for it. I play hooker because it’s one of the best positions and hope to play for the Springboks and play next to Ox.”

Nchè gave the school two signed Springboks shirts and a rugby ball. He was also presented with the school’s shirt.

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