Iqhawe Week to give aspiring rugby players a stepping stone

Picture: Rugby Legend Khayalethu Molotana together with Hollywoodbets Brand and Communications Manager Devin Manager Devin Heffer at the launch of Iqhawe week. Picture: Provided.

The Hollywood Foundation has partnered with Cell C SA Rugby Legends Association to improve rugby development creaating

"Iqhawe Week". Iqhawe Week is South Africa’s premier rugby development tournament for U15 boys’ teams. During this week, aspiring rugby players from different areas in the country are given an opportunity to showcase their talent. They have a chance of being scouted or even getting a scholarship to traditional rugby schools. The eighth edition of Iqhawe Week, began on Monday, October 3 and will run until Friday at the Johannesburg stadium.

This year, the week will be composed of 14 boys teams and four girls teams taking to the field. Some of the players come from underprivileged areas where there are no resources, but their love for the sport keep them going. The Foundation Iqhawe Week was launched last week at Ellies Park in Johannesburg with the rugby legends like Kayalethu Molotana in attendance. The launch was also attended by rugby coaches, media organisations and officials from the City of Joburg.

“Really the drive is behind growing the future of rugby in South Africa. So for us as the Hollywood Foundation, we’re just so excited to be a part of this initiative,” said Devin Heffer, Brand and Communications Manager at Hollywoodbets.

He said they want to give aspiring rugby stars a stepping stone. “We look forward to an amazing tournament where the talent’s going to be.”

SA Rugby Legends Association CEO, John Smit, said he was pleased that the Hollywood Foundation had answered the call and came on board as a sponsor.

“This is good news for the development of rugby in the country and the project is taking our children off the streets and away from drugs into a game of rugby. In order to showcase their talent, energy and hunger to succeed."

John Smit CEO of the SA Rugby Legends Association. Picture: Provided.

The first Iqhawe Week was held in Cape Town in September 2013. Numerous players have since gone on to play provincial rugby and earn degrees while participating in the Varsity Cup. The tournament is back after a two-year break following the outbreak of the COVID-19 global pandemic.