Toti teen to tour Ireland
The Kuswag Skool learner needs to raise about R25 000 more in order to make his dream of travelling to Ireland for rugby a reality.
KUSWAG Skool’s Jordan Oosthuizen has been selected for the Uhuru U16 Invitational Rugby Team that will be touring Ireland from December 6 to 15.
The first-team rugby player, who is in grade eight, was selected out of all the schools that participated in a recent rugby festival based on his performance during the tournament.
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This tour will afford players exposure to international competition as well as the culture and essence of the country. Jordan will be playing three matches for the U16 team, with two self-led training sessions.
His mother, Tristy van der Merwe, said she and his father are incredibly proud that he has been chosen to represent not only his school, but South Africa, too. “He has had a love for this game since the age of seven. He is passionate, disciplined and dedicated,” she said.
Jordan said he has been waiting for this opportunity for years. “It feels exciting and also a bit scary. My goal is to become a professional rugby player and play for the Sharks. My role model is Eben Etzebeth,” he said.
His journey up to this point has not been an easy one. On May 31 last year, he sustained a bad injury to his knee during a match and couldn’t play for six months. “This hasn’t stopped him. He is a machine, and his love for the game will never stop,” added his mother.
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However, for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to become a reality, he needs to raise R50 000. The funds will cover flights, travel, insurance, accommodation, meals, transport, training and his kit. So far, about half the amount has been paid.
Jordan and his mother also thanked the community and all those who have been helping him raise funds. “With the continued help of family, friends, rugby lovers and businesses, I’m hopeful we can get him to Ireland. No amount is too small,” she said.
To help make his dream come true, donations can be made directly into Travel and Sport’s bank account: Freeworld Travel, ABSA cheque account number: 4070845967, Bank code: 632005, Reference: 23WM11 J Oosthuizen. Forward proof of payment to bsmit@travelandsport.com
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