Durban & Surrounds - June 2023

PIETERMARITZBURG GIRLS’ HIGH SCHOOL

KwaZulu-Natal Basketball Team Selection

NSC Examinations. A culmination of five years of ss rate, 95% (222/234) of our girls receiving a done yourselves, your families and GHS proud.

Pietermaritzburg Girls’ High School is very proud of our six learners, who have been selected for the KwaZulu-Natal Under 18 Basketball Team. They will represent their province in the National Under-18 Basketball Championships, set to take place in Bloemfontein from 2 to 7 July 2023. Congratulations to Grade 10 learners: Zanamhla Ndaba, Aluta Mkhize, Zemvelo Phewa, Bathandwa Mdhuli and Nanyiso Khoza (Grade 10) and Grade 11 learner: Amahle Cebekhulu. We wish them all the best for the Nationals tournament!

Athaliah Pillay, Simran Sheik Mahomed,

MICHAELHOUSE

Hockey

Congratulations to the following boys who have made various KZN Inland Hockey Teams:

U18B: Pikolomzi Nkompela, Mokilibi Makara, John Yeadon, Patrick Lambert, West Mitchell-Innes, NonTraveling Reserve: Sebastian Hofmeyr.

U16A: Sithsaba Simukonda.

U16B: Brunton Bigalke, Ben Heuer, Matthew Hunter, Non-Traveling Reserves: Luke Camerer,

Pietermaritzburg Girls’ High School Central Region Hockey Champions

Graydon Leslie.

U14A: Jason Joiner, Riley Muir, Solethu Ngxola, Matthew Southwood.

U14B: W Alyward,Daniel Pieterse, Non-Traveling Reserve: Thomas Perkins.

The following staff are also to be congratulated on their appointment to the following teams:

U14A Inland Coach –Lwando Saunders.

U16B Manager – Mlibo Tyala.

Rugby

Over the past weeks some of our rugby players attended various Sharks Schools rugby trials and the following boys were selected to represent their province:

Craven Week: Campbell Ridl, Wandile Mlaba.

Sharks U17: Ayabonga Mkhokeli, Luke Davidson, Aphiwe Shelembe, Tom Baguley, Carlyle Hawkins. Sharks Academy XV: Murray Baker, Luthando Buthelezi.

Grant Khomo (U16A): Stefan Moolman, William Ridl. U16B: Dan Aissing.

Sharks U15A: Jack Carmody, Oliver Guy, Nicola Salamousas. Sharks U15B: Victor North, Reece Cole.

Well done to the following staff for their involvement in the following teams:

• Mr James Fleming: New Zealand U20’s Assistant Coach and Physio for their Junior World Cup in Cape Town 24 June - 15 July

• Mr Ross Dubazana: Strength and Conditioning Coach - Sharks XV, Academy Week, Jeppe School, 3 - 6 July

Congratulations to Edwin Miller (A Block Ralfe), who has been selected to represent Zambia in the Region-5 International All Species Angling Tournament.

Jack Williamson (A Block Farfield) has been selected to represent the South African Junior Boys Polo Team. Jack will be joining his team in Zambia to participate in a Junior International against the Zambian Schools’ Team from 30 June to 2 July 2023 at Lubombo Polo Club, Mazabuka.

• Mr Luyanda Zondi: Sharks U15B Head Coach vs The Griffons and Pumas at Kings Park

• Mr Sibusiso Ncamani: Sharks U15A Assistant Coach - Rhino Week, van der Bijl Park, 4 - 8 July.

(Photo Credit: Rogan Ward)

Crawfordia

Crawford International La Lucia College embarked on an experience to Medieval times where peasants, Lords and Ladies, Duke’s, and Duchesses mesmerized audiences with spectacular outfits, delicious food stalls, loads of laughter, and a banquette befitting a King. The supper theatre experience engaged over fourteen subjects and created an interdisciplinary and cross-curricular adventure. Over 250 Grade 8 – 12 students braved the stage, showcasing their song, dance, and dramatic performances to the king in celebration of the “Crawfordia Kingdom”.

Performing Arts is an integral part of South Africa’s past, present and future. It is the heartbeat of this country and at Crawford La Lucia College we want to educate our students on the impact that covid had on the industry as well as how the industry adapted and changed after the pandemic. The lesson we all took away from the event can be summed up by the words of Benjamin Franklin: “Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn.”

Thank you to Mrs Van Den Berg and the “Crawford Team” for an outstanding show.

DURBAN AWSUM NEWS

Baie geluk aan Shirees Pretorius wat gekies is vir die KZN o.18 Netbalspan en Alondwe Cele wat gekies is vir die KZN o.18 Uitnodiging XV rugbyspan. Hierdie is ’n fantastiese prestasie deur beide leerders.

Congratulations to Shirees Pretorius who was selected for the KZN u.18 Netball team and Alondwe Cele who was selected for the KZN u.18 Invitational XV rugby team. This is fantastic achievement by both learners.

Download past exam papers, Per grade, Per subject on www.awsumnews.co.za

Download past exam papers Per grade Per subject

(Photo Credit: Matt Williams Photography)

Shirees Pretorius

Alondwe Cele

HIGH SCHOOL

Sport Achievements

MARITZBURG COLLEGE

Rugby

Maritzburg College is very proud to announce that we have six of our talented #RedBlackWhite rugby players selected for the Craven Week team, with Mr Tim Orchard appointed as Assistant Coach. Five #RedBlackWhite rugby players were selected for the Sharks u.17 Academy side, with Mr Kelvin Elder appointed as Assistant Coach. We also have a further seven boys in the Sharks u.16 teams, and 10 boys in the Sharks u.15 teams - a total of 28 boys selected.

• Craven Week: A Botha, S Kadira, P Kubheka, L Kunene, E Mouton and K Mthimkhulu

• Sharks u.17 Academy: J Jansen, B Maphisa, L Makhatini, S Mbatha and N Sithole

• Sharks u.16: C Cherayi, LR Sinkfontein and W Vyambwera

• Sharks u.16B: L Damons, I Mlotshwa, A Ngubane and S Stevens

• Sharks u.15: O Kosani, E Mpapa and R Stanton

• Sharks u.15B: T Boshoff, A Cahill, D Colenbrander, JP Jordaan, L Mabanga, C Mountfort and M Pretorius. Well done to our two staff members and all the boys - wishing you all the best for the fixtures ahead! Thirsti Water. SkoleRugby!

Hockey

Congratulations to the five talented #RedArmy hockey players selected for the Inland u.18A team. Well done to N Holmes, K Dobeyn, I Mosupye, B Dlamini and P Dlamini. A further eight #RedBlackWhite hockey players have been selected for the Inland u.18B side.

• Inland u.18B side: R McKean, A Khumalo, A Zuma, U Dlamini, A Sithembu, S Ndlovu, J Konigkramer and B Brokensha.

An outstanding NINE boys have been selected for the Inland u.16A team, and EIGHT for the Inland u.16B!

• Inland U16A: G Askew, C Francis, D Jackson, K Jenkins, A Mthalane, R Shirge, A Sithembu, M Smith and B Thornton-Dibb

• Inland u.16B: C de Billot, A Dlamini, E Fabre, H Hackland, A Lembethe, K Mngwengwe, V Ndlovu and L Sishi

Our younger boys are also showing their talent on the astro with three boys being selected for the Inland u.14A team and two boys for the Inland u.14B team.

• Inland u.14A: S Mchunu, L Seshemane and S Shirge

• Inland u.14B: G Hosking, J Wang

Well done boys - wishing you all the best for the fixtures ahead! Thirsti Water

Johnathan van Zyl

S. Khadira Cravenweek

P. Kubekha Cravenweek

I. Mosupye Inland u.18A

N. Holmes Inland u.18A

K. Dobeyn Inland u.18A

B. Dlamini Inland u.18A

P. Dlamini Inland u.18A

DURBAN GIRLS’ COLLEGE

KwaZulu-Natal selection 2023

The following learners were selected for their respective KwaZulu-Natal sports team. Congratulations to each learner.

SA Representatives

The following learners were selected for their respective South African sports team. Congratulations to each learner.

DURBAN GIRLS’ HIGH SCHOOL

Mini Prize Giving: Colours & Half Colours

Action Netball:

• Sybriel Munsamy was awarded Half Colours for representing KZN in the u15B KZN Action Netball Team.

• Khanya Mtyobile and Tamieka Wessels were selected to be in the u16A KZN Action Netball Team that represented the province in the national IPTs and for their achievement they were awarded Half Colours.

• Melo Mhkize and Kaitlyn Oakes were awarded Half Colours for being selected to be part of the u16B KZN Action Netball Team.

• Liyema Peter was selected as a member of the u17A KZN Action Netball team and was awarded Colours for her achievement.

• Isabella Stubbs played in the u21 KZN Action Netball team that represented the province in the national IPTs. She was awarded Colours.

• Lara Mulqueeny was awarded a Merit Certificate for her selection into the u13B KZN Action Netball team and we congratulated the following learners who represented KZN in Action Netball Tournaments. They received Junior Colours.

• Natily Claassen KZN u14B, Tyra Norris KZN u14A, Tshedimolo Ntuli KZN u14B, and Amber van Heerden, were awarded Junior Colours.

Swimming:

Tayla Bruce participated in the Level 3 National Age Group Championships held in Durban. She received Half Colours. The following swimmers received Merit Certificates for their selection into the Umlazi District Swimming Team. Payton Groger, Letokulhe Makhubu, Ayanda Ntaka, Roslyn Ramoholi and Kate Truter.

Touch Rugby: Junior Colours were awarded to the following players for representing KZN Touch Rugby sides: KZN u15A Jesse Ellis, Holly Moriarty, Asiphile Ndlangisa, Mbali Tshabalala and Akeelah Willemse. Full Colours were awarded to Samkelo Mbatha and Tahira Seethal for their selection into the KZN u19A side.

Champs - Golf

Shreeya Mahadeo South Africa u.14 Chess

Asiphile Ndlangisa, Jesse Ellis, Holly Moriarty, Mbali Tshabalala and Akeelah Willemse. Samkelo Mbatha and Tahira Seethal

Front: Isabella Stubbs, Kaitlyn Oakes, Tameika Wessels, Melo Mhkize.

Back: Sybriel Munsamy, Khanya Mtyobile, Liyema Peter

Tshedimolo Ntuli, Tyra Norris, Lara Mulqueeny, Amber van Heerden, Natily Claassen

Congratulations to our learners who achieved awards for the commitment they have shown and the excellence they have achieved in various spheres.

Kate Truter, Roslyn Ramoholi, Payton Groger, Ayanda Ntaka, Letokulhe Makhubu.

Tayla Bruce

SCAN ME! TO VIEW THE REST

Nienaber talks about School and World Cup Rugby

In preparation for the World Cup tournament, we had an exclusive conversation with Jacques Nienaber about his life journey, the Springboks’ preparations for the World Cup, as well as a bit of school rugby.

By Durandt van Zyl,

You were initially a physiotherapist. How did you get involved in rugby and how did your path lead you to become a Springbok coach?

“After studying physiotherapy in Bloemfontein, I started working at a physiotherapy practice in Bloem and was asked to be the physiotherapist for the Free State Under-19 and Under-21 rugby teams. A few years later, I was appointed as the physio for the Cats in the Super Rugby series. Rassie was still a player at the Cats and would often do video analysis in the physio room using his “black box” (an analysis program he bought from the WNNR). He would occasionally call me to show me what he had analysed, and that’s how my interest was sparked.”

Jacques was the conditioning coach of the Cheetahs from 2004 to 2007, defensive coach for various unions between 2008 and 2014, including the Stormers, as well as in 2011 for the Springboks. He was also Munster’s assistant and senior coach from 2016 to 2017 before returning to South Africa and continuing his journey with the Springboks.

Tell us more about your school days. Where did you go to school and what position did you play?

“I was at Laerskool Riebeeckstad in Welkom and then went to Grey College as a boarder until grade 11. My parents then moved to Bloem, and I returned home in grade 12. It was a pity to miss my senior year in the boarding house. Athletics (800m and 1500m) and cross country were my main sports, but I also played rugby for fun with my friends for the lower teams and didn’t take it too seriously. I mostly played as a flanker.”

How important are rugby statistics like the number of tackles, metres run, etc. for young players?

“I think for primary school players, it should just be about enjoying the game, and even in high school too. But if you’re a more serious rugby player, then statistics become more important and can indicate important things for you. However, it shouldn’t become so important that it takes the fun out of rugby. What is that fun? It’s the times with your friends in the locker room, the team spirit, the circle before and after the game, Monday’s talk about Saturday’s match. Those are the things you remember.”

What would you say is the role of parents in primary school and high school?

“Parents shouldn’t take the fun out of the sport for their children by being too serious about it. In my opinion, a parent’s most important role is to support their children. Let the coaching be left to the coaches, and if your child is serious about their sport, teach them that it takes hard work to excel. There’s nothing wrong with putting in extra time. Again, the most important thing is for them to enjoy rugby. The ones who succeed are the ones who enjoy rugby immensely because the sacrifices you have to make can’t be made if you don’t love rugby, and without that love for the game, you’ll never have enough drive. You haveto take ownership as a player. What is ownership? It’s not just the coach’s job to make sure you improve, it’s your job to make sure you improve every day as well. Coaches are simply there to help and facilitate. It’s not your parents’ job to make sure you go and practice and train, it’s YOUR job”.

Executive Head of TieMedia, owner of the AWSUM Schools News platform.

In my opinion, a parent’s most important role is to support their children.

PROPERTY P E O P L E

Players nowadays train with heavy weights from a young age. What is your opinion on that?

It’s an important topic. One must distinguish between weights and exercises using your own body weight and stretching. Any exercise that utilises your body weight is 100% effective and can contribute to your conditioning. However, when it comes to weights in the gym, you need to be careful as they can potentially damage your growth plates. If you’re training with weights, I recommend supervision and advice from a specialist or expert. Some young people’s growth plates close at an early age (around fourteen or fifteen), while others’ close at a later age (seventeen to eighteen). It’s very important to be cautious about starting weight training too early without proper supervision and advice from an expert.”

What do you think about the level of school rugby in South Africa compared to the rest of the world?

“I believe our school rugby is at a high and professional level. There are very few other countries’ school rugby programmes that can compete with ours. If you look at what some overseas schools invest in their rugby programmes, some of those schools spend more on rugby than some of our smaller local Currie Cup unions. Considering that, it’s incredible how good we are. Different countries have different development programmes for young players. Many of our successes at the senior level stem from the fact that our contact skills are developed at an early stage in school. In contrast, some overseas countries’ school programmes focus more on ball skills and individual abilities. It’s important to note that there is no right or wrong player development programme. Each country does what they believe works best for them”.

Is there an age at which young players should start establishing themselves in a position?

“There is no fixed recipe. You shouldn’t be nervous if you haven’t established yourself in a position yet – it will come to you. There are international players who played in different positions until they made it to their national team, even in their final year of school. In France, a player like Mathieu Bastareaud plays as a flanker for Toulon in some matches and as a centre in others. He represented France as a centre.”

What should primary and high school learners focus on in terms of game and technical development?

“Work on your skills as much as you can. You can never have too many skills. You can’t spend too much time on skill development. Players with vision are always noticed. Look at Lionel Messi, for example. He has crossed the field 676 times in the FIFA World Cup final, identifying the spaces and opportunities around him. From an early age, develop the habit of constantly observing what is.”

Scan QR code to watch a video of Lionel Messi scanning the field:

Contracting after school has changed a lot. What is a good route for young aspiring players to take for the best chance at success?

“There are several routes that can be followed, but three of the most common ones are as follows: The most common route is playing for your school’s first team, as well as participating in Craven Week (possibly also SA Schools). You get noticed by agents; you join a Union’s academy and play for their provincial junior U19 and U21 teams. Then you move up to the senior competitions (Currie Cup, URC, etc.) and eventually get selected for the Springboks.

The second route is playing for your school, continuing your studies, playing in the Varsity Cup, gaining exposure, and then being selected for a provincial junior U19 or U21 team, leading to a contract with a Union.

The third route is through club rugby, where you may be noticed for your good performances for your club and then invited to your Union’s training sessions, potentially earning a chance to play.”

Let’s talk Springbok rugby. It was recently mentioned that as a group, you were actually more focused on 2023 and that winning in 2019 was a bonus. What do you say?

“You are 100% correct. When our coaching team started in 2018, Springbok rugby was at a low point on the field (in terms of results) at that time. To turn things around and have a chance to win the 2019 Rugby World Cup, we had to come up with a plan that would give us a chance. We decided to play to the Springboks’ strengths, which included being physically dominant. Now, five years later, despite losing a lot of time during the Covid period, we’ve had a chance to increase the depth of players in all positions and work on individual skills. Many factors come into play, and success cannot be guaranteed, but we are in a good position. However, there is still hard work ahead to put the final pieces in place before the start of the World Cup.”

I believe our school rugby is at a high and professional level. There are very few other countries’ school rugby programmes that can compete with ours.

KLOOF MONTCLAIR

RWC 2023 - Venues

Opened in January 2016, the home of Olympique Lyonnais has since hosted a series of international events, including rugby. Will host five RWC 2023 pool matches.

STADE VÉLODROME

A historic stadium that has been renovated three times since it opened in 1937, Stade Vélodrome hosted two quarterfinals at RWC 2007. Hosting four RWC 2023 pool matches & two quarter-final matches.

Capacity: 67,847

STADE DE FRANCE

Built for the FIFA World Cup 1998, France’s national stadium has since also become home for the country’s rugby team. Hosting four RWC 2023 pool matches two semi-finals, the bronze final and the final.

Capacity: 80,023

Built as a home for Lille OSC, Stade Pierre-Mauroy was opened in August 2012 and 3 months later hosted its 1st rugby match as France beat Argentina 39-22. Will host five RWC 2023 pool matches.

Capacity: 50,096

Stade de Bordeaux opened its doors in May 2015, less than 2 weeks before it hosted the semi-finals of that year’s Top 14 play-offs. Will host five RWC 2023 pool matches

Capacity: 42,060

STADE DE LA BEAUJOIRE STADE DE NICE

Stade de la Beaujoire played host to one of RWC’s most iconic matches, as Fiji ran in 4 tries to beat Wales 38-34 and book their place in the quarter-finals. Hosting four RWC 2023 pool matches.

Capacity: 35,520

STADE GEOFFROY- GUICHARD

The oldest stadium selected as a host venue for RWC 2023, Stade Geoffroy-Guichard was opened on 13 September, 1931. Hosting four RWC 2023 pool matches.

Capacity: 42,152

Home to Ligue 1 club OGC Nice, Stade de Nice is another RWC 2023 host venue that also staged matches during FIFA Women’s World Cup 2019. Hosting four RWC 2023 pool matches.

Capacity: 35,983

STADE DE TOULOUSE

Built to be a FIFA World Cup 1938 host venue. Stadium de Toulouse has since undergone three renovations. Hosting five RWC 2023 pool matches.

Capacity: 33,103

RWC 2023 Team Profiles - Qualified Teams

World Ranking: 3RD

Highest RWC finish: WINNERS: 1987, 2011, 2015

World Ranking: 2ND

Highest RWC finish: RUNNER UP: 1987, 1999, 2011

World Ranking: 12TH

Highest RWC finish: POOLS: 1987, 1991, 1995, 1999, 2003, 2007, 2011, 2015, 2019

World Ranking: 17TH

Highest RWC finish: POOLS: 1999, 2003, 2015, 2019

World Ranking: 4TH

Highest RWC finish: WINNERS: 1995, 2007, 2019

World Ranking: 1ST

Highest RWC finish: QUARTER-FINALS: 1987, 1991, 1995, 2003, 2011, 2015, 2019

World Ranking: 5TH

Highest RWC finish: SEMI-FINALS: 1991

World Ranking: 15TH

Highest RWC finish: POOLS: 1987, 1995, 1999, 2003, 2007, 2011, 2015, 2019

World Ranking: 6TH

Highest RWC finish: WINNERS: 2003

World Ranking: 10TH

Highest RWC finish: QUARTER-FINALS: 2019

World Ranking: 8TH

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RWC 2023 - Pools & Teams

Rugby World Cup Pool A is home to two of the tournament’s favourites: New Zealand and France. These two powerhouses and potential winners will battle Italy, Uruguay and a Rugby World Cup qualifier from Africa.

Meanwhile, Rugby World Cup Pool B is considered to be the ‘pool of death’. Although reigning champions South Africa will be expected to top this particular Rugby World Cup group, Ireland and Scotland will both have their sights on finishing second in the pool and qualifying for the knockout stage.

Rugby World Cup Pool C contains Wales, two-time champions Australia and a resurgent Fiji side who will be looking to cause an upset. These sides will be joined by two Rugby World Cup qualifiers.The final group, Rugby World Cup Pool D, contains 2019 finalists England, Japan, Argentina, Samoa and a qualifier from the Americas.

If we suppose the top-ranked teams each win their pools and the second-ranked teams finish runners-up then the quarter-finals in 2023 could look something like this…

• Australia vs Argentina

• Ireland vs New Zealand

• England vs Wales

• France vs South Africa

• Wales vs Argentina

• Ireland vs France

• England vs Australia

• New Zealand vs South Africa or

Ireland currently top the world rankings, but with No 2 France and No 3 New Zealand placed in the same pool, a tough quarter-final awaits should the Irish top their own group.

It means the World Cup opener between France and New Zealand is all-important, with the loser likely to come up against the Irish or SA in the last eight. Ireland beat New Zealand on their own turf last year, an historic series victory that elevated them to the top of the world rankings.

Source: www.rugbypass.com, inews.co.uk

Nienaber talks about School and World Cup Rugby...continues from page 9

With the World Cup ahead, what has been your highlight so far as the Springbok coach?

“On the field, as head coach, it was definitely beating the British and Irish Lions. For twenty months, the players hadn’t seen each other, and being able to come together at short notice, along with the challenges posed by Covid, and winning the series was a significant highlight. Since we only play the Lions once every twelve years, few coaches get the chance to coach the Springboks against the Lions. So, as a coach, it was a great privilege. Also, considering that the Lions had triumphed over Australia and shared the series with the All Blacks, if we had lost, the Lions would have been undefeated against the three Southern Hemisphere nations, which made this victory even sweeter.

Off the field, my highlight has been seeing players develop and become comfortable within the team, watching their growth as individuals within the team environment, as adults dealing with the media, and seeing their increased sense of responsibility and profile development.”

Every player in the group is undoubtedly highly talented. What is your focus in terms of coaching each individual, as well as managing the players given their high profiles?

“I don’t believe it’s our coaching team’s role to manage the individual players’ profiles. They are grown men with their own families, and it’s their responsibility to take care of their profiles. Our role is to manage their roles within the team and to be open and honest with our players regarding their own performance, pointing out both the positive and negative aspects, identifying areas for improvement, and monitoring their progress together. We support them as individuals, but at the end of the day, no individual player’s profile is bigger than the Springboks’ profile.

We also try to teach the players that it’s their choice to read comments on social media, but ultimately, if they want to believe the positive comments, they have to accept the negative ones as well. Therefore, we prefer that players don’t actively follow social media and instead believe our feedback and opinions as coaches. Social media is not reality.”

Naturally, your target is to win the World Cup. Are you satisfied with where you are at this stage in terms of your goals?

“I think we are. Considering that we lost a lot of time in 2020/2021 due to Covid, we have done well. Our plan after 2019 was to focus on team development and growth because there wasn’t much time for that before the 2019 World Cup (only 18 tests). When I talk about team development, I mean increasing the depth in each position and improving the individual players’ skills. This process sometimes affected the on-field results, but it also put us in a much better position by having improved team development and individual skills compared to 2019. Following this path, we saw many players emerge in 2022 who made Springbok rugby much stronger.”

How important is your win record, as it is regularly published alongside previous coaches’ records?

“Naturally, if the team doesn’t win or perform, you lose your job. The challenge is always to do enough player development so that you don’t only have a player depth of 15-22 players. If you can achieve team performance while also increasing player depth, improving skills, and having a broader range of match strategies, I think you are on the right path because the ultimate goal of potentially winning a World Cup remains the most important.”

Many people wonder what your role is and what Rassie’s role is?

“The Director of Rugby and the head coach of the Springboks have different duties and roles. The easiest way to describe it is that I am responsible for what happens on the field, and Rassie is responsible for what happens off the field. However, it’s more complex than that, but that’s the simplest way to describe the division of our roles and duties. Rassie and I have come a long way together. We have a good working relationship, and through mutual respect, we provide insights into each other’s roles. But at the end of the day, each of us stands accountable for our results in our respective areas.”

What is the week like from Saturday to Saturday before a test?

“On the Sunday after the Saturday match, we start the Sunday morning with medical checks. Sundays are usually our travel day to the next destination. It’s the players’ responsibility to analyse their own performance (which is sent to them on Saturday night) and then meet with our coaches individually on Sunday evening to discuss it if necessary. On Sunday evenings, the coaches gather to discuss the strategy for the upcoming Saturday. Monday mornings involve video sessions with the team, where the previous match is analysed. From Monday to Wednesday, we have training sessions. The players’ “weekend” starts on Wednesday afternoon until Thursday, during which they can relax and do their own thing. Fridays involve captain’s practice depending on when the field is available, led by the captain. It usually doesn’t take longer than 30 minutes. On a match day, we start our internal programmes six hours before kick-off.”

You were involved with Munster before Springbok rugby. What made you decide to join Leinster (their biggest rival)?

“Well, it’s like any job. There was an open position, and I was approached and got the job.”

Can we expect you back one day?

“Definitely. A rugby coach’s path can go through many teams and countries, but in the end, I am a South African and a proud Springbok supporter. If the opportunity arises, I will come back. Coaching overseas exposes you to different coaching styles and new techniques, which are beneficial for me as a coach, and hopefully, I can bring that knowledge back to my own country someday.”

From AWSUM Schools News’ side, we want to wish you and your team all the best. We want to thank you for the role you have played in Springbok rugby, the example you have set, your humility, and the way you carry yourself in this significant position. JUST ONE REQUEST, PLEASE: Bring the World Cup home! South Africa stands behind you. Good luck. We are proud of you.

Did you know? 10 Rugby World Cup Facts

1.

THE FAMOUS WHISTLE

The first game of every world cup to date has been started by the same whistle. The whistle is nearly 100 years old.

2. 1987 The first rugby world cup was hosted between New Zealand and Australia in 1987 - a championship in which New Zealand won.

3. 142 - 0

Australia holds the record for the largest winning margin, beating Namibia 142 - 0 in the 2003 championship.

4. YOUNGEST PLAYER

The youngest player to appear in a world cup final was Jonah Lomu in 1995 aged 20 years and 43 days.

5.

The youngest player to win the Rugby World Cup was Francois Steyn in 2007, aged 20 yers and 159 days.

6.

15 TRIES

7. With 15 tries to his name, Jonah Lomu holds the most world cup tries ever scored in a Rugby World Cup.

MEMORABLE WORLD

MOMENTS

History goes hand in hand with the Rugby World Cup and there have been many historic moments in both the men’s and women’s versions of the competition. What would your list be?

OLDEST PLAYER

The oldest player to appear in a Rugby World Cup match was Diego Ormaechea of Uruguay, aged 40 years and 26 days.

8.

MOST TRIES

The most tries scored in a single match was by Marc Ellis who scored six tries against Japan in 1995.

DROP GOALS

9.

The record for the most drop goals scored in one match is held by Jannie de Beer of South Arica who kicked 5 drop goals against England in 1999.

PENALTY GOALS

10.

The record for the most overall penalty goals kicked at the Rugby World Cup is held by Jonny Wilkinson with 58 penalties.

WATCH NOW FRESH EGGS NOURISH THE BODY

Girls Hockey Netball

The girls hockey team have shown true passion and commitment throughout the season with fantastic team performances.

The netball team have been pivotal in their matches and play with true determination in every match. A highly competitive season.

Middle:

Chess Rugby

“These young men have come a long way throughout the season and have grown as the season has gone by. All that they have achieved has come from their own hard work and dedication and I am very proud of how far they have come throughout the year”. Mr Llawdden Roux, 1st Team Rugby.

Our Chess team has had an unbeaten season so far this year winning 93 games out of a 100 thus far over 12 inter-school matches. Pictured in the photo are 5 senior members of the team, however I am tremendously proud of the entire team and reserves!. They are extremely dedicated and have been exemplary proponents of this sport!” Mrs Liz Gomes, Coach/ Manager.

PINETOWN BOYS’ HIGH SCHOOL

Rugby Sharks u.18 Rugby

Kwanda Mhlongo a grade 10 learner was chosen for the Sharks u.18 invitational side. Well done Kwanda!

Here is our match against St Henry’s that we won 28- 25. Our u.16 then played Glenwood and lost 10-5.

GELOFTE SKOOL

Die volgende leerders het KZN kleure verwerf: KZN kleure

Front: Nadia Singleton, Emma Blackbeard, Danica Moss, Erin McCartney.

Jordan Kidgell, Brooke Buckley, Madison Neville, Kylie Coetzee. Back: Tae Le Roux, Shannyn Olivier, Mr Windsor (Coach), Jenna Louw, Madison Bull.

Front: Nkosinathi Cele, Sanele Nzama, Antony Smith, Liam Payne, Jordan Pooley Row 2: Mrs Desai (Manager), Nicholas Strydom, Jordan Nell, Mr Steedman (Coach), Unamandla Khuzwayo Row 3: Cade Cascaes, Melusi Mkhize, Tanner Evans, Joshua Yuill

Back: Mr Roux (Coach), Keagan Gardiner, Kwandile Gumbi, Ziphezinhle Ngiba

Front: Ziyanda Mabhida, Maroelle Coertse, Aphile Mhlongo. Row 2: Lola Klijnstra, Unathi Fakude, Philasande Phewa. Row 3: Amile Mkhize, Lusanda Mbonambi.

Back: Mrs Chabant (Manager), Thandolwethu Sishi, Unam Mtsokoba, Amahle Vilakazi.

Alessandro Petronio, Clinton Courtis, Mfanelo Ndlovu, Robben Kippen and Ayabonga Khumalo

Coach Cele, Kwanda Mhlongo, Mr Madikizela.

Ryan Slade o.12 rugby

Marissa Prinsloo o.19 Ethekwinispan

Nadine Hefer o.18 netbal

Ryan Slade (o.12) & Derick Nel (o.10) Atletiek

Megan Murray o.17 netbal

CURRO HILLCREST

Play Rugby

Congratulations to Hudson Strydom who has been selected for the Sharks u.13 Craven Week Rugby team! Our Executive Head, Mr Guthrie, congratulating Hudson Strydom on his selection for the u.13 Kwazulu-Natal Craven Week Team. We wish him well at the interprovincial tournament to be held in the KZN Midlands in the holidays.

And that’s a wrap for this year’s magnificent school production. Grease was a wonderful success! Well done to our mesmerising learners and our very dedicated, Mrs Jacob, on pulling off this delightful performance. Your late nights, early mornings, weekend rehearsals with all the sweat and tears was all made worth it when the curtain rose on the Curro Hillcrest stage. Congratulations everyone!

WATERFALL SCHOOLS

Junior Rugby Netball

Waterfall College Junior Rugby Team in action, at their Winter Sports Festival on 27 May 2023. Waterfall College Netball Team in action.

KZN Hockey

Congratulations to our Curro HCA learners who have been selected for KZN Hockey: u.13 Boys KZN:

• Mason Wurdemann – u13 B Team.

• Ryan Freese – u13 B Team.

• Daniel Mckeown – u13 C Team.

u.13 Girls KZN:

• Kendra Kreinacke – u13 B Team.

• Freja Jonsson – u13 C Team.

• Colbie Kader – u13 C Team.

• Ryan and Daniel (absent as on AOT).

Senior Rugby Team

Waterfall College Senior Rugby

WESTVILLE SENIOR PRIMARY SCHOOL

Swimming

Congratulations to the following boys who have been selected to represent PADSSA for rugby at the KZN trials. We wish them all the best! Well done to Mr Adamson who is coaching the u.12A team.

u.12A: Bandile Mahaye, Andile Ndlovu & Buchule Chithi.

u.13A: Eliah Schonken, Matthew Thompson, Ayabukwa Mbanga, Ulrich Van Tonder, Siyanda Ntuli & Caleb Mokawem (unfortunately Caleb is unable to attend as he has picked up an injury).

u.13B: Keaton Fisher, Thomas Hutchinson, Kyle Symes & Kyle Israel.

Bandile Mahaye recently participated in the SA National Schools Championship Gala and came back with 2 silver medals and 1 bronze medal! Well done, Bandile! We are so proud of you

u.11 PADSSA Boys Cricket

Chess PADSA Rugby

Well done to Humzah Bayat, Devon Clark, Ronaldo Moodaly and Humzah Ally who participated in the KZN u.11 Cricket Festival last Term. Well done to Mr Hatch who has been selected as the PADSSA u.11 team head coach.

Our children really are just so talented! Waldo also took part in the SA National School Championship Gala at the end of April and he got 1 gold medal, 4 silver medals and 1 bronze medal! We are so proud of you, Waldo!

During the school holidays, Waldo Fritz represented KZN at the 46th SA Biathlon championships in Stellenbosch. He did exceptionally well and managed to achieve his personal best times for the 800m run, as well as the 50m swim!

Waldo received a gold medal for his performance and is now the u.13 boys SA title holder! Congratulations, Waldo! This is outstanding and we are so proud of you.

Humzah Bayat, Devon Clark, Ronaldo Moodaly and Humzah Ally

u.13 PADSSA Girls Cricket

Congratulations to Annastaica Pillay and Tarita Bodalia who were selected for the u.13 PADSSA Girls Cricket Team. They will be participating in the KZN Cricket Trials this Saturday - good luck, girls!

Michael Schwartz recently competed in the South African Junior Closed Chess Championship (by invitation) where he performed extremely well and was placed in top 2 players in U12 category in our country. He won 7 rounds out of 9, sharing the top position with another boy from Gauteng! Both boys were awarded SA Protea Colours for Classical Chess and were selected to represent SA in the World Chess Championships later this year! Michael also took part in the South African Closed Rapid and Blitz Championship (by invitation) where he was placed 2nd in the U12 category! He was awarded SA Protea Colours for Blitz & Rapid Chess and was chosen to represent South Africa in World Rapid & Blitz Youth and Cadets in Batumi, Georgia later this year! Well done, Michael. This is truly an incredible achievement and we cannot wait to see what the results are!

Annastaica Pillay and Tarita Bodalia

Bandile Mahaye

Waldo Fritz

Michael Schwartz

Mr Guthrie and Hudson Strydom

Kendra Kreinacke, Freja Jonsson, Colbie Kader and Mason Wurdemann.

Front: Amahle Ncube, Akhile Malunga and Tye Smith.

Back: Hayden Wilson, Luyanda Makhoba, Ziyanda Ngidi, Jonnah Von Brughan, Chiniso Ibeh, Ayabonga Shongwe and Kelechi Ibeh.

Team.

Kayleen Moodley KZN u.18 Shadow Squad (Volleyball)

Catherine Young Great Britain u.17 National Softball team

Sarusha Govender KZN u.18 Shadow Squad (Volleyball)

Jada Blair KZN u.16B Hockey Team Slindile Msibi KZN u.15 Netball Team

Eve Walden

u.18 Shadow Squad (Volleyball) Asive Mwrebi KZN u.18 Sharks Netball Team

Bronwyn Kerr

u.18 Shadow Squad (Volleyball) Jenna Dunk

u.18 Shadow Squad (Volleyball)

CLIFTON SCHOOL - DURBAN

Surf & Lifesaving

Congratulations to Luc O’Brien and Damien Angel on being awarded their South African colours at the recent Interprovincial Champs. Lifesaving South African also recently announced both their selection to the National Teams for the 2023 International Surf Rescue Challenge taking place from 20 - 23 September 2023 at South Padre Island, Texas, USA. This is a huge achievement! We look forward to watching your progress in September - Good luck gents!

Congratulations to our Clifton Prep School rugby players on their selection into the relevant Durban Coastals rugby teams! Good luck at the upcoming festival this weekend which will play its role as trials for the provincial teams.

u.13A:

13 - Sphesihle Nxumalo, 15 - Mitchel Rodgers.

u.13B:

1 - Mothepu Dumisa (absent),

5 - Chayse Linley, 10 - Oliver Rey (VC), 14 - Kyan Valjee,

Rugby Prep Rugby

Congratulations to the following boys and staff who have been selected to represent the Sharks teams that will participate at the upcoming tournaments: The Clifton community is so proud of you and can’t wait to watch you in action!

Sharks Primary Schools U12A Team: Matt Swan

Sharks Primary Schools U12B Team: Max de Charmoy Mason Allan

Sharks Primary Schools U13A Team: Sphesihle Nxumalo

19 - Mholi Phili.

u.13 INV:

7 - Caleb Goosen (absent), 9 - Hayden Ravenscroft.

u.12A:

4 - Mason Allan,

7 - Matt Swan (C), 12 - Max de Charmoy.

DURBAN HIGH SCHOOL

33 DHS Hockey players selected for KwaZulu-Natal!

The achievements of the ‘Typhoon Factory’, as it is known around the Hockey community, speak for themselves. Building on what has been an incredible season of growth, the announcement of the KZN Hockey Teams brings with it a sensational list of 33 DHS representatives, 18 of which will be representing either the u.14A, u.16A or u.18A team! The hard work put in during the off season and throughout what has been a very busy Term 2 is starting to pay dividends and we are sure that you will represent your School to the best of your ability! We couldn’t be more proud of each and every single one of you!

Tom Brown - Manager

Sharks Primary Schools u.13B Team: Mitchell Rodgers Chayse Linley

u.16 Grant Khomo Week: Asabonga Jiyane

KZN u.14 Representatives

KZN u.16 Representatives

KZN Hockey Representatives

Tom Brown Asabonga Jiyane

Mitchell Rodgers, Sphesihle Nxumalo, Chayse Linley.

Matt Swan, Max de Charmoy, Mason Allan.

Luc O’Brien

Damien Angel

LADDSWORTH

PRIMARY

• KZN Inland Girls U12 B - Emlyn May

• KZN Inland Boys U12 A - Anesu Mukono

• KZN Inland Boys U12 B - Melo Xaba

• KZN Inland Girls U13 A - Paige Williams, Amile Nxumalo

• KZN Inland Girls U13 B - Deborah Lock, Lily Strydom

• KZN Inland Girls U13 C - Payton Nero, Abusiswa Mnguni

• KZN Inland Boys U13 B - Nsika Msimang, Samuel Wessels, William Johnson

• KZN Inland Boys U13 C - Richard Porritt

• KZN Inland Boys U14 A Regional TeamLuthando Shelembe

GLENWOOD HIGH SCHOOL

Cricket

Glenwood boys recently played for the Hollywoodbets Dolphins Cricket Squad vs. Oman in preparation for their World Cup qualifiers. Three Proteas - Janneman Malan, Imaad Fortuin, and Andile Phehlukwayo (Class of 2014) were in the starting lineup. Six Glenwood boys, old and current, were in the squad. They are Andile Phehlukwayo, Banele Cele, Sanele Mnqayi, Chad Laycock, Ntando Soni, and Bandile Mbatha. The coaching team included former Proteas JP Duminy and Rory Kleinveldt, as well as Wandile Gwavu, the current Proteas fielding coach. This was an incredible opportunity for the Glenwood cricketers to learn from some of the best cricket minds in the game. What makes it even more special is that the six Glenwood boys had the opportunity to share the field and carry on their brotherhood.

Rugby 7’s

Congratulations Mnelisi Gamede (Grade 12) that has been selected to form part of the SA u.18 Sevens Training Camp from 16 - 18 June 2023 whereafter a team will be selected to participate in the Trinbago 2023 Commonwealth Youth Games from 4 -11 August 2023.

KZN Schools Swimming KZN Midlands u.12 Rugby

We are proud to announce that the following boys were selected to represent KZN at the annual Craven Week.

Carter Bloxham and Aphelele Mhlongo

SA Action Netball KZN Coastals Hockey

Congratulations to the following boys who have been selected for KZN Coastals Hockey.

• Under 13: KZN Coastals 13A - Unakhokonke Dladla and KZN Coastals 13C - Hayden Deysel.

• Under 12: 1. KZN Coastals 12A - Luay Khan and 2. KZN Coastals 12B - Alondwe Luthuli.

Riley Girodo

Top ten Grade 7 Maths problem solvers

Our top ten Grade 7 Maths problem solvers have been part of a programme run by JIMCOBSA. Besides their usual Extension Maths lessons, as well as doing round 1 of SAMC and HMC, they have written round 1 of SAMO (for high school pupils), taken part in an online Russian Maths

u.18 Craven Week Jaco Williams, Liam Terblanche (Head Prefect), and Lithemba Mfupi (1st XV Captain and Deputy Head Prefect). Absent: Bongani Dlamini (U17)

Caleb Reeding (U16B), Kuhle Hadebe (U16B), Lizwe Mtetwa (Grant Khomo U16A), Juan Viljoen (U16B), Mr JP Jamieson (U16B Coach).

u.15B Lwandle Bulose, Bonga Cibane, and Loyiso Mvubu.

Mnelisi Gamede

Caleb Tyler

Front: Mr G Lambooy (Headmaster), Payton Nero, Samuel Wessels, Melo Xaba, Anesu Mukono, Emlyn May, Paige Williams, Luthando Shelembe, Williams Johnson. Back: Lily Strydom, Amile Nxumalo, Deborah Lock, Abusiswa Mnguni, Jodie Gardner, Nsika Msimang, Richard Porritt, Mr K Nero (coach).

• KZN Inland Girls U12 A - Jodie Gardner

Congratulations to Riley Girodo! Riley has been selected for SA Action Netball u.13 as a non traveler, the team will travel to New Zealand for the World Cup in 2024.

KEARSNEY COLLEGE

Kearsney Provincial Selections

Kearsney College is delighted with the number of boys and staff selected recently to various KZN rugby and hockey teams.

Rugby: In rugby, 14 boys and 7 staff have been selected. They are:

• Sharks U18 Craven Week: Siso France, Devahn van der Walt

• Sharks U17 Academy Week: Anele Cele, Roydan Madatt, Cameron Veenstra

• Sharks Academy XV: Heinrich Fourie, Connor McIntyre

• Sharks U16B: Aya Jikwana

• Sharks U15 Rhino Week: Lwazi Mbebe, Lwandle Mkhize, Nhlanhla Ndlovu

• Sharks U15B: Luke Faure, Oliver Ludwig, Keanu Williamson

Coaching staff: Dean Moodley (manager Sharks U18 Craven Week), Neil van Heerden (assistant coach Sharks U17 Academy Week), AJ Roos (strength and conditioning coach Sharks U17 Academy Week), Grant Daniels (physio Sharks U17 Academy Week), Divesh Sookdeo (manager Sharks U16 Grant Khomo), Luke van As (coach Sharks U16B), Kwanele Ngema (head coach Sharks U15 Rhino Week)

Hockey:

In hockey, 23 boys and 3 coaches have been selected for the KZN Coastal Boys’ hockey teams, to participate in various tournaments across South Africa during the mid-year holidays.

Boys selected are:

• U18A: Zipho Cele, Matthew Mendes De Oliviera, Thomas McKenzie

• U18B: Lithabe Shweni, Dylan Wiggett, Sandiswa Yeni, Fritz Rheeder

• U18C: Liam Johnson

• U16B: Keegan de Jager, Simnene Kubheka, Joel Steyn

• U16C: Jonty Wiggett, Matthew Terblanche, Bonga Maphanga, Sipho Majiza

• U14A: Aaron Blackburn, Tom du Plessis, Dylan Forbes

• U14B: Luke Mendes de Oliviera, Soyama Plaatjie, Luke Treleavan (absent from photo)

• U14C: Poloko Lethola, Ngwazi Sithole

Coaching staff selected are: Ashley Kemp (KZN U14A head coach), Adin Bennett (KZN U16B assistant coach), Daniella Cairns (KZN U16 strength and conditioning coach).

CHELSEA PREPARATORY SCHOOL

KZN Netball: U13 Netball Team

Chelsea is proud of their U13 netball team who played in the KZN U13 Age Group Championship. The team played various teams who had won their respective district tournaments and were promoted through to the final round, the KZN Championship.

The team won the Championship and will now tour to Johannesburg to represent KwaZulu Natal at

KZN Rugby

Chelsea is proud of the pupils and coaches who have been selected to represent KwaZulu Natal at the inter-provincial tournaments.

KZN Hockey

Chelsea is proud of the pupils and coaches who have been selected to represent KwaZulu Natal at the inter-provincial tournaments.

U13A

Girls: Mary Aylward, Mikaela Russell

Boys: Cameron White, Ryan Mbamba

U13B

Girls: Becca Short

Boys: Mr Bowles – Coach

U13C

Girls: Emily Schroder, Miss Morris – Coach

Boys: Kaleb McNally, Tenzin Naicker, Ziyanda Xala, Mr Bauer – Coach

U12A

Girls: Chloe Reeves, Sophia da Costa

Boys: Benji Wimble

U12B

Girls: Lily Nichol, Miss Maccullum – Manager Boys: Zac Green

Kearsney’s KZN hockey selections

Front: Zachary Green, Ryan Mbamba, Kaleb McNally, Tenzin Naicker.

Back: Benji Wimble, Cameron White, Ziyanda Xala.

U12

Mr Mkize, Luke Peschl, Benjamin Wimble, Mr Bratos

U13 Mr Mkize, Lincoln Burger, Mr Bratos.

Front: Emily Schroder, Becca Short, Mikaela Russell, Mika Gouws, Meg Graham Back: Anri Human, Madison Fenske, Mary Aylward, Mikayla Morrison