GEORGE NEWS - A rising local rugby talent from Borcherds, Ronalddino Williams (20), was recently given the chance to represent his community and country at a tournament in Thailand.
Williams has been selected to take part in the Next Gen Blitz Rugby Tournament from 14 to 18 July, but the cost of the trip is proving to be a major hurdle for him and his family.
According to his mother, Caroline, they need to raise R48 000 to cover travel expenses, tournament registration and airfare. He is due to leave South Africa on 11 July.
"I am excited about the possibility of him going," says Caroline. "I believe it can open new doors for him. We live in a rough area where drugs and alcohol are rife. There's a lot of talent here, but unfortunately, many of the kids fall victim to substance abuse. As a single mother, I want my son to do well and rise above his circumstances."
Ronalddino started playing rugby at the age of 11 and has never looked back. He began his rugby journey at Heidedal Primary School, where his talent quickly stood out, and went on to play for Parkdene Secondary School during his high school years.
In 2019, playing for the school's U14 side, he scored three tries in seven games. After the Covid-19 lockdown, he returned to the field in 2022 and made a massive impact in the U19 A team, scoring 14 tries in 19 matches and helping his team secure the Youth Cup title that year.
In 2023, he added another nine tries in 15 matches for the school's U19 team.
Last year, after finishing school, he joined the Maori's Rugby Club, where he has already played 16 matches, scoring
11 tries.
"I'm super excited to go play rugby in a foreign country," Ronalddino says. "I've always dreamt of playing internationally. This is a huge opportunity for me."
With some supporters from the community, Caroline is planning a gospel show at the Baptist Church in Parkdene on 22 June to raise funds for her son's trip.
They are planning more fundraising events, but the family will appreciate any involvement and donations from residents and local businesses.
About the tournament
The Next Gen Blitz Rugby Tournament is an international youth rugby event hosted by UXi Sport and affiliated academies. The tournament brings together players from across the globe to compete and gain international exposure. This will be the first time the tournament is held in Thailand.
According to an organiser, Bennie Gouws, teams are formed by players who sign up and pay to participate.
"The tournament is open to anyone who wants to be part of it. The teams are mixed and compiled from all players who register. We have participants coming from all over the world."
Anyone who would like to help make this dream a reality for Ronalddino may contact him directly on 066 182 6119 to assist with sponsorships or donations.
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