The BIS Heritage U19 School Rugby Tournament brought together talent, passion, and resilience from township schools across the Border region, culminating in an unforgettable day of rugby despite the adverse weather conditions at the weekend.
Held at the Mdantsane NU 1 rugby fields, the event marked a milestone in the revitalisation of schools rugby in previously disadvantaged communities, thanks to the dedicated efforts of Border Icons in Sport (BIS) and its regional partners.
Centre of Excellence High School clinched the title in a thrilling final, defeating Newtown High 13-5. Both teams displayed extraordinary sportsmanship and skill, with Centre of Excellence’s defence proving impenetrable in the second half, ensuring their victory.
Leading up to the final, Newtown had narrowly edged out Phandulwazi Secondary School 11-10, while Centre of Excellence delivered a 12-0 result over Breidbach Secondary. The tournament saw fierce competition from 10 schools across five regions — Mdantsane (Berlin High, Philemon Ngcelwane Secondary), Komani (Hexagon High, Kwa-Komani Comprehensive), Qonce (Bisho High, Breidbach Secondary), East London (Centre of Excellence, Ebenezer Majombozi), Dikeni and Fort Beaufort (Phandulwazi Secondary and Newtown High).
The knockout stages provided some of the most intense matches, with Hexagon overcoming Philemon Ngcelwane in extra time, while Phandulwazi secured a hard-fought 14-5 win over Kwa-Komani. Centre of Excellence’s 18-3 victory over Bisho High solidified their path to the final.
Reflecting on the success of the tournament, Deon Muller, of the local organising committee, praised the commitment of all involved.
“This tournament has shown the spirit and determination of our young athletes,” he said. “Despite financial constraints and weather challenges, the players displayed remarkable grit and we are proud to see rugby thriving in our communities.
“Special recognition must go to the regional coordinators, especially Phumelele Hlati and David Ruiters, who worked tirelessly to ensure the schools were well-prepared and equipped.
“There were also significant contributions from the BIS executive committee, who provided strategic guidance, and the following donors: Open Mind Technologies, Kat Leisure Hotel Group, the department of sport, recreation, arts & culture’s Amathole district office, judge John Smith and Kickboxing SA president Aslam Mohammed.
“Today’s tournament is just the beginning,” Muller said. “We have shown that despite challenges, we can build something incredible together. The future of township rugby is bright, and we look forward to seeing these young players grow into champions both on and off the field.
