Cape Town - In a race to raise funds to take more than 30 rugby members on tour in Malaysia next year the Jointly Building Communities Foundation (JBCF) urges the public to support its Golf Day taking place at Royal Burgundy Mashie Golf Course in Richwood tomorrow (November 27) from 9am.
Most players and staff members are from Bellville South and coach, Russell Carelse, said due to socio challenges affecting many in the community, they have decided to be proactive and start helping one another make it on the trip.
Each participant needs R35 000, and the Golf Day is their first big event hoped to raise a few thousands.
He said all proceeds will be split among the members whom some are playing in the Western Province team as well, and he pleaded with citizens to join the event or make a donation.
Funds will cover travelling costs, 12-days accommodation, meals, and sport gear.
“The 12 days travel experience will be turn into an educational and cultural involvement programme between youth (player) and officials (managers, coaches ect).
“Besides playing we also going to be involved with cultivates meaningful connections between communities of the two countries.
“The travelling group won’t just see the sights in Malaysia they will meet people, live the cultures and have a better understanding of Malaysia.
“This is one of the few big opportunities our children are getting since the Covid-19 and a great platform to explore and grow.
“Even what seemed to be a small contribution will make a huge difference to us,” said Carelse.
Assistant coach, Beyonce Gordon, 20, said they entered a competition with the Cape Flats 7s earlier this year which saw them appointed to take part as Starter Academy Dream Team.
“I’ve never travelled out of South Africa so this would be a good platform and exciting adventure to be on.
“And of course I’ll be doing what I love the most.
“Rugby has thought me so many things on and off the field and it takes hard work, dedication most of all, it takes discipline to get where we at,” said excited Gordon.
Nineteen-year-old Alicia Solomons said although wearing the Springboks jersey in August remained her greatest pride, it was one opportunity she was eagerly looking forward to.
“We use this saying in rugby ‘Together Everyone Achieve More’ (TEAM) and we need our community to join our team, donate and achieve our goals together.
“We plan on giving back to the community for supporting us,” said Solomons.
They will be taking along two junior teams of girls and boys.
For more information call Beyonce Gordon at 084 019 6531 or Russell Carelse at 078 609 4565.