The South African Rugby Legends Association (SARLA) returned to Sugar Rush Park this past Saturday, 9 March 2019, where they played an exhibition match against the Ballito Megaforce Madalas, the old boys’ team of the Ballito Dolphins Rugby Club on the KZN North Coast.
This event on our local rugby calendar serves as the launch of the Ballito Dolphins club rugby season. Jam packed full of food and festivities, the afternoon provided loads of entertainment for family and friends, the highlight being the South African Rugby Legends (SARLA) match, entertainment by Ballito’s Tequila Twins and the Sharks match against the Bulls for big screen action.
Kicking off the day’s activities, former Springbok wing and highly-experienced rugby coach, Deon Kayser, led a rugby clinic with the assistance of established legends for Ballito’s #futurelegends imparting integral rugby skills and knowledge.
There was enormous excitement when it was game time for the SARLA Team, which comprised of local Natal-based legends from both provincial and club teams and coached by SARLA CEO, Stefan Terblanche. Facing the Ballito Megaforce Madalas with a kick-off at 3:30pm, the SARLA team established their dominance right from the start with Helmar Breytenbach’s try in the first five minutes.
Crowd pleasing action followed this incredible start with tries by Neil Cole, Dayle Short, Kenny Fourie and former Eastern Province wing, Dean Hayden. Further match action saw Warren Fourie score and convert his own try and Wesley Bodmer’s great contribution of two tries and one conversion.
Erik Aissing then added further points when he scored a great finishing try in addition to three conversions with Helmar Breytenbach and Dayle Short, also contributing two further points each with their boot. All of the action resulted in victory for the SARLA Team with the final score of 67 – 0.
Stefan Terblanche, SARLA CEO, said “Whilst we’re thrilled to have scored a victory against the Madalas, the true success of this day can be attributed to the amazing work our rugby legends continue to do to support the transformative growth of rugby across South Africa” adding that “Our ongoing rugby clinics and visits to rugby clubs are an incredible opportunity to impart our skills to the youth and pass on our passion.”
The day ended with the legends thanking everyone who attended the day filled with fun, family and fellowship, with a special callout to the Ballito Dolphin’s Rugby Club and Sugar Rush Park for their hospitality. SARLA wishes the best to the Ballito Dolphins Rugby Club, encouraging all to continue their support of the growth of South African rugby.
