Craven Week, hosted at Hoërskool Monument in Krugersdorp saw a group of young rugby players from across the country showcase their talents, love and passion for the sport, including Boland’s captain, Luan Giliomee, and his team, the Sanlam Boland U18 rugby boys team.
The team got their Craven Week campaign off to a rip-roaring start with a 41–21 win over Leopards U18 on Monday, 24 June. Two days later they followed it up with a resounding 34 – 20 victory over Border. As they prepared to make it three out of three, it was impossible to miss the connection they had with their fans who travelled from Boland, Western Cape.
Cheered on by a vocal contingent of die-hard fans, their wins are a fitting tribute to the team’s ability to create lasting memories with and for their fans across the country. With all the love, support and hard work the team won 35 -27 against Eastern Province on Saturday, June 28.
“A few weeks back we got a hiding from South Western Districts (SWD) Eagles. To see the boys come back, react well to coaching and perform like they did at the Craven Week is incredibly encouraging. Not just for us and the boys but for everyone back home,” explained John Booysen, the team’s head coach.
Powerful partnerships built on driviving strong connections
According to Booysen, establishing powerful partnerships is crucial for ensuring this continued success and putting the entire community in the best position to win.
“Coming from such a vast region, we need reliable partners who can help us bring these boys together and support them. Keeping them connected to the latest training resources, family and their support system is an important part of developing the chemistry they need to perform well. That is where having some of these sponsorships plays a crucial role,” Booysen added.
Award-winning South African fibre provider Vuma, along with Samlam and Stadio Higher Education are an integral part of Boland’s Craven Week’s strong showing as some of the team’s sponsors. As a partner that prides itself on creating connected moments, the internet provider’s support of the team’s journey reflects its dedication to promoting goodwill.
“Having the opportunity to support this young skilful Boland team which might one day produce individuals who’ll represent the country on a global rugby stage has been an honour. We are incredibly pleased with what this crop of young men have managed to achieve during the Craven Week, and like everyone back home, we are proud of them” said Vuma’s marketing director Lianne Williams.
