Eighth Kearsney Easter Rugby Festival launched

The eighth Kearsney Easter Rugby Festival launch was held at the President’s Suite, Growthpoint Kings Park Stadium, Durban in anticipation of the exciting level of rugby that will take place over the Easter weekend.

The participation of many of South Africa’s top-ranked rugby-playing schools serves to highlight its prestigious status amongst players, coaches and supporters.

This year’s line-up features teams from Grey College in Bloemfontein, Affies and Menlo Park from Pretoria, EG Jansen from Boksburg, HTS Middelburg from Mpumalanga, Selborne, Dale College and Framesby from the Eastern Cape, South African College Schools from Cape Town, as well as Glenwood, Westville Boys’ High and hosts Kearsney College representing KwaZulu-Natal.

In endorsing the festival, John Smit, CEO of The Sharks and former Springbok coach, said schoolboy rugby plays an invaluable role in the development of South Africa’s rugby culture.

“Rugby at schools is a platform where the values of sportsmanship, teamwork, hard work, perseverance, respect and honour can be taught and embraced,” he said.

Some of the country’s finest rugby talent will be on display at the festival, and the event provides opportunities for players to be noticed and advance their rugby careers at provincial and national level. Talent scouts and selectors from The Sharks and Sharks Academy will again watch all three play days – Thursday, 2 April, Saturday, 4 April and Monday, 6 April.

The Sharks Academy will offer full bursaries for 2016 to three selected players. Backed by The Sharks, the bursaries will include a contract with The Sharks Academy, accommodation and a tuition bursary with one of its reputable education partners. Each bursary is valued at R100 000. The recipients will be announced immediately after the final game of the festival.

Speaking at the launch, Kearsney headmaster, Elwyn van den Aardweg, noted that the Kearsney festival had grown significantly since its inception in 2008 and was certain to again attract capacity crowds this year. They were excited to be welcoming Menlo Park and SACS for the first time.

Three primary school teams – from Highbury, Pelham and Umhlali Preparatory – have also been invited to showcase their skills against the KZNRU Ibutho/Mark Godefroy U13 team. Kicking off play each day, this fixture offers youngsters the opportunity to play in front of large crowds and experience the festival atmosphere.

This will be followed by six premier high school fixtures on each of the three play days.

Van den Aardweg acknowledged the festival sponsors, whose support has assisted the event to grow over the years. Headline sponsor, Standard Bank, was thanked for its invaluable support, together with The Sharks, Sharks Academy and KZN Rugby Union which have been involved in the Kearsney festival since its inception. Illovo Sugar South Africa Limited remained a valued sponsor, together with Nashua and several other partners and companies.

Festival director, Taff Green, announced that a new outreach initiative was being introduced. “This year we are excited to introduce an outreach aspect at the festival, together with the KZNRU Development Programme, to help equip players from less privileged backgrounds with kit and equipment.

“We invite the public and festival rugby players to ‘touch, pause and engage with rugby development’ by bringing new or good condition second-hand rugby kit and to leave it in designated collection bins next to the main field. By this simple gesture people can make a meaningful and effective contribution to rugby development,” Green said.

All sizes of rugby shorts, jerseys, socks, boots, rugby balls, kit bags and any equipment would be appreciated. Contributions will be handed over during the closing ceremony after the final game.

Numerous food outlets and a refreshment tent will ensure spectators can fully enjoy the special family atmosphere. No alcohol will be permitted to be brought onto the campus. Entry is R20 for pedestrians and R50 per vehicle, with ample parking available. Entry includes a glossy festival brochure providing team information and player statistics.

Visit www.kearsney.com for the fixtures list and festival information.