The Wanderers takes a look at how sport has evolved over the years
The Wanderers Club’s 134-year history has been an ongoing evolution of the value of this sporting and social venue, which has continuously diversified in its sporting code offerings to include rugby, cricket, athletics, badminton, basketball, tennis, squash, etc.
Director of Wanderers’ Club Rugby Team, Gareth Shackleford reflects on how the club embraced a culture of change.
Shackleford said since the club’s establishment in 1888, it has provided a place for people in Johannesburg to come together to play sports, share meals and celebrate life.
“An iconic venue, it is still largely revered as the centre and heart of sport, recreation, and conference activities in Gauteng. The Wanderers Club’s 134-year history has been an ongoing evolution of the value of this sporting and social venue, which has continuously diversified in its sporting code offerings to include rugby, cricket, padel and etc.”
The director added that Wanderers Rugby Club has been at the forefront of transformation in the union.
Shackleford noted that the club had the first player of colour to play the Pirates Grand Challenge.
“The club also had the first female chairperson and elected vice president of the Golden Lions Rugby Union, Margie Shackleford. Our present chairperson is Petra Anderson.”
He concluded that in 1993 Wanderers looked to assist with the development of rugby in the rural areas and townships and approached the then Transvaal Union.
“We bussed players to The Wanderers Club for a year, coaching them and keeping the Soweto Club open so when the political issues were over, they could be reintegrated into their club.”
Related Article:
SA Rugby reveals ‘big sponsor announcement’ for Springbok Women
