Raiders Rugby Club which is based at the Bill Jardine Stadium in Industria West was just one of the many clubs who were faced with the challenges that came with the COVID-19 pandemic. The club’s Public Relations Officer (PRO) Thaakir Dawood indicated that their rugby season was affected when the Pirates Grand Challenge and Gold Cup was postponed.
“These were tournaments Raiders were looking to dominate on a provincial and national level, but most importantly give hope to a community in turmoil due to social issues, and unemployed being a major factor.”
“With no rugby activity, Raiders Executive’s was forced to stop providing players with transport and rugby-related stipends as well as a place to stay. Many of the players come from all corners of South Africa with the hope of one day playing for the Lions or the Springboks,” explained Dawood.
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The PR officer added that after contacting various organisations for assistance, Blue Ribbon bakery got back to them and supplied them with bread to feed the players and their families.
According to Dawood, many players got together and instead of taking the loaves for themselves, they decided to donate the loaves to those who are in need in the communities of Newclare, Westbury, Riverlea and an informal settlement across the road from the Bill Jardine Stadium called Zamimpilo.
“Raiders Rugby Club would like to thank Blue Ribbon for assisting the club and trying to at least provide the players with some hope during these tough times. We would also like to urge everyone who is by the means to assist us in helping us and our community in these testing times,” concluded Dawood.
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