BRU reaches out to Zutshwa

18 Jul 2024

In the effort to unearth raw talent across the country, Botswana Rugby Union(BRU) in partnership with Kalahari Research and Conservation will this weekend host U12s Tag Rugby Festival in Zutshwa.

As the footprint of Botswana rugby continues to grow, so too is the engagement within the country at grassroots level as the event is projected to feature young talent from Zutshwa, Ngwatle and UKhwi who are expected to showcase their growing enthusiasm and skill for rugby. The festival aims to promote youth participation in rugby, foster community spirit, and provide a platform for  budding players to demonstrate their abilities.

BRU Development Officer, Mr Thusego Segaise, told BOPA that the festival aimed at introducing rugby to children under 12 years while also instilling the spirit of nature conservation. 

He explained that said it was hoped that the festival would plant interest in young children with the hope that the interest and enjoyment could generate the urge in them to go another level and further develop their skills.

“This festival forms part of the BRU’s development objectives of reaching all regions of the country to not only deliver the great game of rugby but also to unearth young fresh talent that may previously have been untapped,” he said. 

Mr Segaise said the festival, which is in its second season, was anticipated to draw a good number of participants judging from the numbers it attracted in its inaugural season.

“Last year’s turnout was impressive, which is a sign that rugby was welcomed in Kgalagadi which signified the growth of the sport in the country and we are expecting the numbers to double this year as we have extended the invitation to more communities,” he said.

He pointed out that having more children playing rugby from grassroots level in Kgalagadi would increase the pool of talent and pathway rising up to the regional and national competitions. He added that the effectiveness of the programme itself could generate the urge in the children knowing they have what it takes to be future rugby stars. Ends

Source : BOPA

Author : Thato Mosinyi

Location : GABORONE

Event : Interview

Date : 18 Jul 2024