Another unifying Barbarian RFC festival of rugby
Underpinning the Barbarian RFC’s vision is the desire to bring players from all walks of life and genders onto the field to learn the real art of rugby – sportsmanship of the highest order under pressure.
The Barbarians, who sponsor our under-9 rugby league, would have been so proud of the standard of play and the diverse nature of the teams at Reddam House on 2 August:
Three teams from townships: Vusa Club from Langa, Ukhanyo Primary from Masi, and Westlake Primary from Westlake
One private school: Reddam
One formerly English Model C School: Sun Valley
Two formerly Afrikaans model C schools: Paul Greyling and Zwaanswyk
A Muslim team: Primrose Club
The level of fair yet hard play, and the vocal enthusiastic support, created an atmosphere of a united nation. And indeed, a rainbow nation can be built from the grassroots up with integrated activities like these.
The traditional Barbarian under-9 rugby league finale – with players sitting in circles dotted around the field having lunch together and chatting – was a fitting end to a remarkable day. Young children do not see differences and divisions, they merely see another child and start chatting. Social cohesion and gender equality naturally blended. What a recipe for a successful South Africa.
We, the older generation, need to learn from them.