Hlalefang Kunene, who is a Grade 11 learner at Vryheid Landbou, is ready to start his career on the rugby field. Kunene has been selected to play in Italy and needs all the assistance he can get to fulfil his dream. He started playing rugby in Grade 8, having played cricket, hockey and soccer at Risen Son Academy, where he did his primary school grades.
“The love of playing rugby came to me when I started high school and it grew bigger when I was selected to play for the first team,” enthuses Kunene. He occupies the position of fly-half, which he says is a position that requires vision, footwork and great leadership skills.
Kunene says he played his life-changing game in Port Shepstone last term, where he was crowned ‘man of the match’. Following that achievement, he was selected to play for Sportweni U/19 in Italy. “I had a wonderful and successful season!”
The Grade 11 learner says he is still working on his nerves whenever he has a game to play.
“I get very scared at times when I have a game. When I played at the Eshowe Sports Festival.
I made a lot of mistakes and unfortunately, we did not win the game, but I am thankful to my coaches who get me up whenever I feel down or I’m losing hope, because that prepares me for my next games and I excel,” he said smiling.
Mrs Berry, who is the principal at Risen Son Academy, shared that Kunene has always been a good sportsman and also does well in his academics. “I have known him since he was just a boy; now he is growing into this little young man. When his dad told me he can no longer pay his fees, I had to stand in and help them because I have always believed in his potential. I took him in and we arranged for him to get sponsorship so he could further his studies. And one thing people should know is that Hlalefang is a good kicker; he is very good at what he does.’’
After matric, Kunene aspires to go to the University of Pretoria to study something associated with Agriculture, as well as play for the Tuks. He says he looks up to New Zealand rugby player Daniel Carter. Kunene is in need of funds to cover his travel expenses to Italy in December for a 10-day session where he will be playing and attending workshops. If you are willing to lend a helping hand, please contact
082 441 2616.
ALSO READ: Melusi Hlongwane is on a mission to become the next best UK footballer
The news provided to you in this link comes to you from the editorial staff of the Vryheid Herald, a sold newspaper distributed in the Vryheid area.
