Caledon has a proud rugby heritage and even prouder fans. But Steven Sadien is perhaps the proudest of all. In fact, he takes his favourite rugby club so seriously, that he stays behind after every match to keep the field free of littler and in tip-top shape, proving that everyone has a part to play in this game. We want the Caledon RFC to inspire more people like Steven so DirectAxis has made a donation to the club so they can start sustainable fundraising.
Bongiwe Nhleko, who manages the Golden Lions Women’s Under 18 side, never intended to be so involved in women’s rugby. But after just one practice session she was hooked. Now she’s passing on her newfound love of the game to other young women and helping them experience its life-changing qualities. DirectAxis believes in Bongi and her girls, so we’ve made sure they can keep their league open with a donation to Golden Lion’s women’s rugby.
Looking at Bongamandla Khumalo, you would never guess he is a star rugby player. After all, he’s been wheelchair-bound since he was 9-years old. But his amazing spirit and confidence keeps him on track to achieve his dream of playing Quad Rugby overseas. Superheroes like Bongamandla need help sometimes. So DirectAxis will be covering his transport costs for the year.
Growing up in the Bo-Kaap often means that rugby runs through your veins. So when the SK Walmers Academy teamed up with schools in Samora Machel and Joe Slovo, they created a new family, each bringing their unique strengths to this legendary club. The three communities meet on the field on match days, facing the challenges of diversity head-on and giving these young players a real chance at succeeding at the game and as South Africans.
In many South African communities, sports coaches take on the role of mentor, teacher, superhero and, sometimes, father. Coach Mak of Vusa Academy is one such coach. This is why we at DirectAxis back Vusa Rugby Academy and its coaches, so they can back the boys of Langa; the Future of Rugby. Follow Mak on his day and you’ll see what a vital role he, and rugby, plays in the community and in the lives of these young children.
Breaking stereotypes of what it means to be female athletes, the girls of Busy Bees RFC in Langa are tackling life’s challenges and scoring victory upon victory for women’s empowerment, on and off the field. The female staff of DirectAxis decided the girls needed a break and some appreciation, just in time for Women’s Month.