Reece gears up to represent SA in touch rugby

Kingsway grade 10 pupil, Reece Randall (16) has been selected for the SA men’s U18 touch rugby team.

Reece made the cut after excelling at an inter-provincial tournament at Harlequins Rugby Club on the Bluff in October while playing for the KZN U17 side. This is the first time he has made a provincial and national team.

“I have played for KZN for two years now. I only started playing touch in 2016, so I was shocked and overwhelmed to make the SA side,” he said.

Reece plays scrumhalf for his school’s first team and mid-field for touch. “The first time I switched from normal rugby to touch was a big adjustment. I found the biggest adjustment was fitness, as there is more running in touch.”

The young sports star also tried his hand at playing sevens last year for his school’s third team and helped them win a few tournaments. “I liked it so much I think I will keep on playing. Out of the three, however normal rugby remains my favourite.” He also participates in cricket and hockey at school.

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Reece and his Kingsway first team teammates will be in action for the first time this season when they take on old foes Amanzimtoti High School in the opening game of the night series on Friday, 9 February at Hutchison Park. “I’m very excited for our first game, especially since it’s against Toti High. We have been training hard, so we hope to do well.”

Reece will represent South Africa in Malaysia in August. However, he first has to raise R50,000. A fundraiser potjie kos competition will be held for him at Cammy’s in Warner Beach on 3 March. If you would like to sponsor him, call his mother Debbie on 071-362-3238. Banking details: Reece Randall, Standard Bank, account number:034459685.