This week marked a significant milestone for Western Province Rugby Football Union as we proudly hosted the Annual Awards Dinner at Kelvin Grove in Newlands, featuring a night of recognition, celebration and camaraderie.
With several dignitaries in attendance, including the SARU Vice President Mr Francois Davids, executive member Mr Patty Kuhn, the CEO Mr Rian Oberholzer, and convener of selectors Mr Peter Jooste. From Western Province we had Past Presidents Mr Tobie Titus and Mr Thelo Wakefield as well as former WP Rugby Chairman Mr Johan van der Merwe.
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The evening commenced with a structured program that honoured outstanding achievements in Western Province Rugby. Keynote speaker Mr Rian Oberholzer delivered an address highlighting the enduring value of WP Rugby and emphasizing the significant contributions of Western Province to the recent success of the Springbok Team.
A highlight for the attendees was the presence of the rugby world Cup trophy, offering participants a unique opportunity for memorable photo moments.
The awards ceremony recognized exceptional performances across various leagues and regions, including the reserve league, Sunday league, and metro league categories. Club members, delegates, and dignitaries received accolades, reflecting their dedication to the sport.
As has been the tradition for many years, the event saw the winners, including the U20, 3rd, 2nd, and 1st Teams receive the trophies, which in some cases are more than one hundred years old.
Among several highlights, we honoured individuals who have made significant contributions to WP Rugby. Marcus Ball, Shamila Sulayman, and Bokkie Carstens were presented with the prestigious council delegate blazers in recognition of their commitment and service to the rugby community.
Further recognition went to thirteen Western Province Rugby players as they received their official colors, with DHL Stormers Head coach John Dobson and team manager Chippie Solomons presenting the players their official colours blazers, with special mention made to the DHL Western Province U21 players who recently won the SA Rugby U21 Cup.
Notable awards went to Anja Le Roux as the DHL WP Junior Girls Player of the Year, JC Mars received the DHL WP School’s Player of the Year, with Ronaldo Daniels receiving the Club Rugby Sevens Player of the Year.
The women’s player of the year went to Azisa Mkiva, and the Club Rugby player of the year went to Gift Dlamini from Stellenbosch RFC, and Club Rugby Referee of the Year went to Dyllan Francke.
This weekend sees us host our World Rugby Level 2 coaching course at Newlands with our next course being the World Rugby Level 1 for fifteens rugby on 8 December 2023. Please click here to sign up.
