The Northcliff Warriors Rugby Club kicked off their season in impressive form, propelled by a new partnership with IIE MSA in Ruimsig. This collaboration has already injected fresh talent and energy into the squad, with the Warriors sitting third in the league after just two rounds of competition.
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This past weekend, in the Golden Lions Senior Grand Challenge, marked a significant milestone for the club, as IIE players, and Warriors teammates, took to the field as a united front for the very first time. The results were nothing short of dominant, with the first team defeating the Scorpions first team 49–24, the second team crushing the Scorpions second team 77–5, and the U21 team edging a win against the Scorpions second team 7–5.
“We played well,” said club chairperson Johan Muller. “The integration of the IIE players into our squad was a huge step forward for us as a club. Despite this being the first time we played together, the boys performed great. There’s still a lot of hard work ahead this season, especially in developing mental toughness, since many of our players are students who will be up against more experienced, battle-hardened opponents.”
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Preparation for the match was intense, with an emphasis on team chemistry. The coaches made a concerted effort, during the week, to build cohesion within the newly formed group, with their efforts paying off on game day. “Our coaches did a great job, ensuring the players gelled as a unit. It was crucial to build a connection quickly, and the players responded well to the challenge.”
While currently occupying third place on the log, the Warriors remain focused on long-term goals, and are mindful of the tougher opposition still to come. “We want to compete with the best. As a club, we pride ourselves on excellence. Our goal is to work hard, stick to our standards, and grow stronger with each match.”
Beyond the pitch, the strategic alliance with IIE MSA forms part of a broader vision for the club’s future. Muller highlighted the importance of this relationship, particularly in providing educational pathways for senior players. “This is a key part of our future strategy. Education is important to us, and this partnership opens doors for our players beyond the game.”
Muller also acknowledged the crucial support of the club’s main sponsor for 2025, Parts-Mall Africa. “We’re appreciative of their financial backing,” he said.
With a promising mix of emerging talent, academic opportunity, and strong leadership, the Warriors are not only aiming for on-field success, but also setting a foundation for sustainable growth for the years to come.
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