Donation a boost for rural club

Helpers Rugby Club is a club in the small Village of Zinyoka Location outside of King William’s Town.

The club recently received a major boost when the Stutt Group made a donation to them to help improve their sports field and the team.

“We were approached last year some time for sponsorship and we came in and had a look what the need was,” said Chris Nayanah, one of the Stutt Groups Directors.

“Our purpose is not to help individuals but the community at large, so once we had established that this was a good community project we agreed to come on board.”

The club field is used by the whole community with the local school teams using the field, as well as other sports such as soccer.

“When we came in we saw that the poles were falling apart so we put up a new set of poles and had pole pads especially made,’’ said Nayanah.

“The club team and school teams also didn't have kit so we have supplied kit to them as well.

“In all we have put in around R35000 which we hope will greatly benefit the community.”

At a ceremony held at the field earlier this week the community and club thanked the Stutt Group and officially unveiled the poles with their new pads. The club players also sported their new kit.

“We believe sport is something everyone can get involved with and that it is such an important tool in uplifting the community,” said Nayanah.

“I think that this will be a stepping stone for the community and they can improve from here.”

For the rugby club they will look to use the field to their advantage and climb up the Border rugby club standings.

“This donation from the Stutt Group is amazing for us,” said Helpers Rugby Club public relations officer Simiselo Nduli.

“It is not just for us but the community as a whole and I think it will go a long way in uplifting us and helping us reach our goals.”

The Helpers team currently plays in what is effectively the third division of Border rugby.

The team has won three games, lost two and drawn one so far this season.

“We want to move up in the divisions and do well and with the help we have received and the improvements to our field I think it will definitely help us,” said Nduli.

At the field during the unveiling the Thembalethu Lower and Higher Primary school team was practising on the field, taking advantage of the upgraded facilities.

“I think this is a great initiative that has been done here,” said school teacher and coach Ayanda Soga.

“For instance we now have a ladies soccer team in the village who use the field for practice as well.

“It has made a huge difference to the community and we are so grateful. The kids are so excited to play here.

“We will now need to wait and see what impact this donation will have on the community.’’