Hosted at the historic Chelsea Physic Garden on June 16, Steadfast Africa’s fifth annual fundraising gala brought together an influential international community to back the non-profits, with the final total expected to climb even higher as an online auction and raffle remain live until July 8.

The fifth such occasion, the event has grown in size and stature to become a fixture on the London calendar, once again bringing together supporters, partners, philanthropists and changemakers for an evening dedicated to creating meaningful impact. The event reflected Steadfast Africa’s continued commitment to supporting organisations that are deeply rooted in the communities they serve.

This year’s fundraising efforts continued to support the two exceptional organisations Steadfast Africa has partnered with since the event’s inception, both recognised for their innovative and community-driven approaches to addressing inequality and creating opportunity.

A highlight of the evening was the highly anticipated fundraising auction, which featured an impressive collection of luxury hospitality and travel experiences generously donated by partners and supporters.

Guests enthusiastically bid on exclusive safari lodge stays, luxury travel escapes, premium wine farm experiences and tailored hospitality itineraries from some of Southern Africa’s most sought-after destinations. The evening combined celebration, connection and generosity, while directly supporting impactful community initiatives.

Kolisi Foundation co-founder Siya Kolisi said of the initiative: “I am not a self-made man. I am here because people invested in me. They saw something in me, opened doors for me, and gave me opportunities I could never have created on my own. Today, through the Kolisi Foundation, we want to do the same for others. Partnerships like this one with Steadfast Africa and the Good Work Foundation remind us that lasting change is never the work of one person or one organisation. It is built by people who choose to invest in the potential of others.”

The Kolisi Foundation, co-founded by double Rugby World Cup-winning Springbok captain Siya Kolisi, is dedicated to tackling some of South Africa’s most pressing social challenges through partnerships, advocacy and targeted community programmes.

Guided by the values of dignity, hope and unity, the foundation focuses on food security, education and sport, gender-based violence awareness, and youth empowerment. Through initiatives that strengthen vulnerable communities and create pathways to opportunity, the Kolisi Foundation continues to inspire meaningful action and collaboration across South Africa.

Similarly, the Good Work Foundation is committed to impact through community coming together – and bridging the digital divide in rural communities through education and skills development. Operating digital learning campuses in underserved areas of South Africa, the foundation equips children, young adults and local entrepreneurs with critical digital literacy and future-ready skills.

Its programmes focus on educational access, teacher development, vocational training and technology-driven learning opportunities that empower rural communities to participate meaningfully in the modern economy. Steadfast Africa’s partnership with the Good Work Foundation reflects a shared belief in the power of education and innovation.

Commenting on the impact of the partnership, Good Work Foundation CEO Kate Groch said: “Good Work Foundation is able to serve the communities we work in and do the work we do because of the support of our partners; they are an integral part of our Pink family. This was again shown at the amazing Steadfast event held in London. Thank you from myself and the entire GWF family. Thank you to everyone who organised, attended, donated and made the event so successful. We are grateful for our partnership with Steadfast and how it continues to grow. Together we will continue to do Good Work and reimagine education and opportunity for young rural South Africans.”

Steadfast Africa extends its sincere gratitude to every guest who attended and contributed to the success of the evening. The generosity shown through bidding, donations and participation demonstrated the power of collective action and the shared commitment of the Steadfast community to creating meaningful change.

Special thanks are also extended to the many prize donors, hospitality partners and supporters whose extraordinary contributions made the fundraising auction and raffle possible.

While the London event has now concluded, supporters from around the world can still take part in the fundraising efforts through the online raffle and silent auction. Both remain open until 8 July, giving individuals everywhere the opportunity to support these important causes, bid on exceptional experiences, and stand a chance to win exciting prizes.

Tickets for the prize draw and access to the silent auction are available online, ensuring that anyone, anywhere in the world, can continue to be part of the impact.

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The SA ‘A’ team will take the field against Zimbabwe at 12h00, followed by the Springboks’ clash against the Barbarians at 15h00, with both matches being broadcast live on SuperSport.

Kolisi was thrilled to be back in the green and gold jersey and said that although many considered matches against the Barbarians as festival games, they would treat the opposition and the match in general as any other international.

“It’s our opening game, and we’re all excited,” said Kolisi.

“For us, it’s never a festival game, we see it as a Test match. We’re representing South Africa, and some guys are getting an opportunity, so we want to ensure that everything we’ve worked on during the off-season is put into place.

“We’re preparing for the season, and a lot of us are playing for positions in the Nations Championship squad.”

Zooming in on the match itself, Kolisi said: “There’s a lot of magic in the backline, and our job as a forward pack is to give them the best platform to express themselves and use their talent.

“We’ve got a lot of experienced guys in the pack, and many players are hungry for an opportunity in the Springbok jersey as well. That said, the focus will be on our game, and it’s important to be disciplined in what we do.”

Tshituka was in awe about being handed the captaincy for the SA ‘A’ team and said: “It’s an honour of the highest order for me. I’ve been given a responsibility, so I want to do it to the best of my ability and make the honour count.”

He was also excited to see the young players in the squad have the opportunity to represent a senior national team and said: “It’s definitely a golden era of youngsters. They are outstanding rugby players, and their ability to learn quickly has really impressed me, so I’m looking forward to playing alongside them.”

Tshituka, who will have the honour of taking the field alongside his brother Emmanuel, expected Zimbabwe – who qualified for the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia – to put up a brave fight.

“We’ve done our analysis, and there are a lot of guys in their squad who will be highly motivated and will be playing for opportunities and contracts, so one can never underestimate them,” he said.

“We all know what it means to walk onto the field representing your country, and they’ll definitely come out with that motivation, knowing they are going to the Rugby World Cup.

“There’s a lot on the line for them, and they’ll be fully committed. We also know a couple of the guys in their team, and what they’ll bring, so they’ll be well prepared.”

Kolisi was delighted to take the field in his home province in the Eastern Cape and said: “I’m very excited to be here. It’s been awesome seeing friends and family. It’s always special coming to Gqeberha and seeing the people who came to the airport and to our team photograph, and there’s always a fantastic vibe at the stadium, so we are looking forward to it.”

Issued by SA Rugby Communications

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The SA ‘A’ team will take the field against Zimbabwe at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium at 12h00 on Saturday, which will be followed by the clash between the Springboks and Barbarians at 15h00. Both matches will be broadcast live on SuperSport.

Both matchday squads feature a careful balance of capped internationals and a group of talented new players who have been knocking hard on the door this season, while a bunch of Junior Springbok players who will be representing the team at the Junior World Championship in Georgia will also get their first taste of senior international rugby.

The Springboks feature a total of 18 capped internationals, with the only two players in the starting lineup who have yet to make their Test debuts being Junior Bok captain Riley Norton (lock) and Carlu Sadie (prop), while the uncapped players among the replacements are JJ Kotze (hooker), Paul de Villiers (loose forward) and SA U20 flyhalf Vusi Moyo.

The backline has a strong international flavour to it with Aphelele Fassi, Cheslin Kolbe and Edwill van der Merwe forming the back-three, while Andre Esterhuizen and Jesse Kriel will combine in a hard-running midfield combination, and Quan Horn will take over the No 10 jumper alongside Grant Williams at halfback.

Up front, Ox Nche and Sadie will form a front row trio with Andre-Hugo Venter, while Norton and Franco Mostert will run the engine room, and the familiar loose trio of Kolisi, Pieter-Steph du Toit and Jasper Wiese completing the forward pack.

The replacements bench, which features six forwards and two backs, will see Kotze, Ntuthuko Mchunu and Zachary Porthen serve as the back-up front row, while Ben-Jason Dixon, De Villiers and Evan Roos will provide additional forward reinforcement. The two backline players on the bench are Faf de Klerk and Moyo.

Erasmus was pleased with the quality of the team he announced as injuries and enforced rest for certain players resulted in him having to tweak a few player combinations.

“We said from the outset that we wanted to give a few players returning from injury and others who have been playing overseas game time in this match, while at the same time exposing some of the younger players on our radar to top-class international rugby, and we believe this squad reflects those objectives,” said Erasmus.

“We have been very impressed with the way the new players have jumped straight into action and grasped our systems and structures, and we are excited to see what they can do alongside some of our regular Springbok players, as we build for what will be a challenging season with the Nations Championship and Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series approaching.”

Of the Barbarians, Erasmus said: “They have a group of exciting and experienced players in their squad, and they’ll come out guns blazing and try to produce an entertaining style of rugby, which will serve as a good test for us. They will challenge us, but this will be a good hit-out for our players to get back into top-level international rugby, with the England match a little over two weeks ago.

“That said, they are always a tough side to analyse because they have players from all around the world, and a quality coaching team, who will set high standards for them, so it will be important for us to focus on our game and what we would like to achieve.”

Stick, meanwhile, named a talented young SA ‘A’ side, who will have the luxury of relying on a group of senior players such as Lukhanyo Am (centre), Boan Venter (prop), Phepsi Buthelezi (No 8), Tshituka (lock) and Neethling Fouche (prop), who will be supported by an exciting group of youngsters including Luan Giliomee, Jaco Williams, and Zekhethelo Siyaya in the back three.

Markus Muller, meanwhile, will partner up with Am in the midfield, with halfbacks Yaqeen Ahmed and Haashim Pead dictating play at halfback.

Stick, who will double up as the Springbok assistant coach, also named a physical pack, with loose forwards Buthelezi, Bathobele Hlekani, Emmanuel Tshituka – the brother of Vincent Tshituka, who will run the lineouts with Van Heerden – and a strong front row combination of Fouche, Boan Venter (both props) and SA U20 hooker Siphosethu Mnebelele.

The SA ‘A’ coach also named a strong bench, featuring the front row of Liam van Wyk (hooker), and props Oliver Reid and Hanro Jacobs, while Adre Smith, who joined the squad on Sunday, will provide further forward back-up with Siba Mahashe.

The three backline players among the replacements are Nico Steyn, Imad Khan, and Jurenzo Julius.

“I’m looking forward to seeing what this group of players can do against a determined Zimbabwe outfit, who have qualified for the 2027 World Cup, and will undoubtedly use this opportunity to test themselves against us as they prepare for the international spectacle,” said Stick.

“The young players and uncapped guys have really slotted in well in the last week, and one can sense the excitement among them to take the field.

“This match will provide fantastic senior international exposure for them, and for Zimbabwe as well, and I believe they have the goods to play an exciting brand of rugby, which will be great for the coaches to assess our depth as we not only build for this season, but with an eye on the RWC next year as well.”

Of Zimbabwe, Stick said: “They have a settled team, and they have good coaches, so they will throw everything at us, and we need to be ready for that. The keys for us this weekend will be to stick to our structures and for the individuals to use the talent that earned them selection for this group, so we are looking forward to seeing what they deliver on the field.”

The teams will wrap up their main training block in Johannesburg on Wednesday, before departing for Gqeberha later in the afternoon.

Springbok team to face the Barbarians in Gqeberha:
15 Aphelele Fassi
14 Cheslin Kolbe
13 Jesse Kriel
12 Andre Esterhuizen
11 Edwill van der Merwe
10 Quan Horn
9 Grant Williams
8 Jasper Wiese
7 Pieter-Steph du Toit
6 Siya Kolisi (captain)
5 Franco Mostert
4 Riley Norton
3 Carlu Sadie
2 Andre-Hugo Venter
1 Ox Nche

Replacements:
16 JJ Kotze
17 Ntuthuko Mchunu
18 Zachary Porthen
19 Ben-Jason Dixon
20 Paul de Villiers
21 Evan Roos
22 Faf de Klerk
23 Vusi Moyo

SA ‘A’ team to face Zimbabwe in Gqeberha:
15 Luan Giliomee
14 Jaco Williams
13 Markus Muller
12 Lukhanyo Am
11 Zekhethelo Siyaya
10 Yaqeen Ahmed
9 Haashim Pead
8 Phepsi Buthelezi
7 Bathobele Hlekani
6 Emmanuel Tshituka
5 Ruben van Heerden
4 Vincent Tshituka (captain)
3 Neethling Fouche
2 Siphosethu Mnebelele
1 Boan Venter

Replacements:
16 Liam van Wyk
17 Oliver Reid
18 Hanro Jacobs
19 Adre Smith
20 Siba Mahashe
21 Nico Steyn
22 Imad Khan
23 Jurenzo Julius

Issued by SA Rugby Communications

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As defence coach Joey Mongalo reported earlier this week, where there is opportunity there is hope, and this team, with their backs to the wall, will look to demonstrate their pedigree, but more than that, deliver a performance fitting of the character they possess.

Head coach JP Pietersen continues the pattern of trying to maintain continuity, build cohesion and survive a devastating injury toll, with Springbok Ethan Hooker the latest in a long line of players on the sidelines following a most unfortunate incident against the Ospreys.

That’s the disappointing news, but on an optimistic note, there are minimal changes as the Hollywoodbets Sharks look to finish their two-week overseas tour on a high against a team also chasing a top 8 finish.

There are just two changes to the starting line-up, the pack remaining intact while Makazole Mapimpi comes in for Hooker who suffered a dislocated shoulder last week, and captain Andre Esterhuizen shifting to outside centre, partnering Siya Masuku in the midfield.

Teenage sensation Zekhethelo Siyaya remains at fullback after his breakthrough debut against the Ospreys, and he can only benefit from having the Bok captain alongside him later in the game

Hollywoodbets Sharks
1. Phatu Ganyane
2. Fez Mbatha
3. Hanro Jacobs
4. Jason Jenkins
5. Emile van Heerden
6. Phepsi Buthelezi
7. Vincent Tshituka
8. Emmanuel Tshituka
9. Jaden Hendrikse
10. Jean Smith
11. Makazole Mapimpi
12. Siya Masuku
13. Andre Esterhuizen (C)
14. Edwill van der Merwe
15. Zekhethelo Siyaya

Replacements
16. Eduan Swart
17. Ox Nche
18. Vincent Koch
19. Corne Rahl
20. Nick Hatton
21. Siya Kolisi *
22. Bradley Davids
23. Marnus Potgieter

The post Siya Kolisi Set for 50th Appearance on Return appeared first on SportsClub.

A product of the Bo-Kaap and a Bishops graduate, Pead has enjoyed a meteoric rise in South African rugby over the last couple of years.

The 20-year-old memorably ignited the global rugby conversation during the 2025 World Rugby U20 Championship in Italy when he was named Junior Springbok Player of the Year, having shattered records previously held by international icons like France star Antoine Dupont.

Pead’s stats set a new benchmark for scrumhalves at the U20 level and earned him an immediate call-up to spend time in the senior Springbok setup.

His clinical decision-making, lightning-quick service, and tactical kicking have made him one of the most highly-rated rising stars in world rugby, while he has already settled into senior rugby as a key performer for the Lions during the ongoing United Rugby Championship.

Pead’s potential has clearly caught the eye of the national selectors, and after spending time at another Springbok alignment camp earlier this year, many believe he could make his Test debut in the near future.

“Haashim is a generational talent whose work ethic and technical ceiling are truly exceptional,” said Tamsanqa Ncwana, RNSI’s Head of Rugby Recruiting in South Africa.

As Pead follows in the footsteps of several other Springboks by joining Roc Nation Sports International, there is ever-increasing excitement about what the next phase of his career will hold.

Speaking about the announcement, Pead stated: “Joining the Roc Nation Sports International family is an exciting moment for me. Watching the impact they have had on the careers and lives of players I look up to, made this an easy decision.

“I’m proud of my roots in the Bo-Kaap, and as I take the next steps in my career, I’m excited to have a world-class team behind me as I look to achieve my goals both on and off the field.”

President of Roc Nation Sports International, Michael Yormark, concluded by saying: “At Roc Nation Sports International, we look for athletes who not only excel on the pitch but also possess the character to inspire the next generation. Haashim’s journey as a professional rugby player is a story that will resonate throughout South Africa and we look forward to supporting him to reach his full potential.”

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The Stormers have been South Africa’s form team across the 2025/26 club season, and if all goes to plan, they will host a European Champions Cup playoff in early April as well as a United Rugby Championship quarter-final in late May.

Rugby director John Dobson believes that the franchise is building towards a more prosperous future, and expects the squad to peak in 2029 – once a large group of homegrown youngsters have come of age.

In the meantime, the Stormers have announced that two high-profile Springboks in Siya Kolisi and Wilco Louw have signed on ahead of the 2026/27 season.

It will be a homecoming of sorts, with Kolisi rejoining the team that gave him his f irst professional contract in 2010 and the Worcester-born Louw returning to his roots.

From a personal point of view, Kolisi’s move from Durban to Cape Town will allow the 34-year-old to be closer to his children, Nicholas and Keziah.

“This move gives me the chance to do that while giving back to the team and fans who made such a big contribution to the player and person I am today,” Kolisi said, after the Stormers announced the signing in December.

“This decision wasn’t easy, but it’s about being closer to my kids.”

That said, the timing of the move is particularly significant for the club as well as the player. The Stormers will tap into Kolisi’s wealth of rugby knowledge as they attempt to become one of the world’s leading teams over the next few seasons.

Apart from his Stormers commitments, Kolisi will need leeway to prepare for the f inal phase of his journey with the Boks.

As Dobson suggests, it is a mutually beneficial arrangement for all the relevant parties concerned.

“We’ve got an outstanding crop of loose forwards in our squad and a number of very strong young leaders, with the last three Junior Springbok captains all on our books,” the Stormers boss said.

“Siya will help to develop these players and mentor them in a way that nobody else could, given what he has achieved and what he represents to all South Africans and especially our fans.”

Paul de Villiers led the Junior Boks at the 2023 World Rugby U20 Championship, and has gone on to become one of the Stormers’ most important young players in recent years.

After a series of impressive performances across the URC and Champions Cup, the openside flanker is looking to take his game to another level.

Watch how Siya Kolisi reacts to messages from fans after reaching 100 tests!

“Siya is a South African rugby icon,” De Villiers told Rapport.

“For me to learn from someone like that is a huge privilege.” With the Bok management team based in Cape Town, Kolisi will be a lot closer to head coach Rassie Erasmus and should have an opportunity to discuss the build-up to the 2027 World Cup on a regular basis.

Kolisi won his 100th Test cap against France in Paris this past November.

Along with other ageing veterans such as Eben Etzebeth, Pieter-Steph du Toit, Damian de Allende and Frans Malherbe, he will continue to push for a place in the national team in 2026 and 2027.

While Erasmus has integrated a number of promising youngsters over the past two seasons and spoken about the delicate balance between youth and experience in a successful Test squad, he knows how valuable Kolisi and others will be at the next global tournament, having won the previous two titles in Japan and France.

Even at the age of 34, Kolisi continues to impress on the international stage, and there is something to be said for the fact that he is featured in most of South Africa’s greatest wins since 2018.

His ability to unite and amplify the playing group is well-documented, and it is worth noting how previous South African captains such as Francois Pienaar, Gary Teichmann and John Smith have described Kolisi as the greatest Bok skipper of all time.

Incidentally, the Boks have won 72% of their Tests under Kolisi, and the f lanker (67) is closing in on Smit’s record of 83 Tests as South African captain.

While the 2027 World Cup – and potentially a record-breaking third successive title – remains his biggest goal, Kolisi will have to prove himself across a demanding 2026 season.

Once his tenure with the Sharks comes to an end, he will turn his attention to the new assignment with the Stormers.

Expectations will sky-rocket in the coming years, and the Stormers players as well as the coaches will have to ensure that they continue on an upward trajectory.

From a Bok point of view, he should not look any further than the Greatest Rivalry Series between South Africa and New Zealand, which kicks off in August.

Much has been made about the inaugural Nations Championship tournament, which will commence with a mouth-watering match between Boks and England in Johannesburg on 4 July and conclude in late November with a decider in the northern hemisphere.

But as Erasmus recently stated, the result of the quadrennial series between the Boks and the All Blacks will matter a great deal more to the respective rugby communities in South Africa and New Zealand.

While the All Blacks have dominated the rivalry for much of the professional era, the Boks have clawed things back in recent times, winning five of the last six match-ups.

Erasmus’ charges will be favourites to extend that winning run over the next four Tests – three of which will be staged in South Africa.

Erasmus has refused to give any guarantees but has intimated that Kolisi and other key senior players will be in the mix across the 2026 and 2027 Test seasons.

At the same time, he has spoken about developing the leadership group, and has given others like Jesse Kriel and Salmaan Moerat opportunities to captain the Boks in recent seasons.

While it would be a stretch to suggest that either player is ready to replace Kolisi on a full-time basis, it is encouraging to see that Erasmus is planning for a scenario where Kolisi is unavailable, or for the inevitable moment.

when the warrior king hangs up his boots for good. Fortunately for the Boks, Kolisi has committed himself for the next two seasons, and should continue to add value as a player and leader.

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READ: Williams: Panama are a team we have to take seriously

South Africa are set to take on Panama in their first international friendly, which takes place at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban.

Siya Kolisi took a moment to address his football counterparts, offering words of encouragement and reminding the Bafana Bafana squad to stand tall and embrace their role as ambassadors for the nation every time they wear the jersey.

Kolisi made his visit shortly after the team’s arrival from Johannesburg, greeting the squad at their hotel ahead of Friday’s clash against Panama national football team at the iconic Moses Mabhida Stadium.

READ: Broos Urges Bafana Bafana to Step Up Against Panama

Bafana Bafana against Panama kicks off at 19:00.

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Meanwhile, Nadine Roos did the double by being named SA Rugby Women’s Player of the Year for a second successive season at the SA Rugby Awards, presented by FNB on Thursday.

Rassie Erasmus and the Springboks were also honoured for a brilliant 2025 season, by taking the awards for Coach and Team of the Year after successfully defending the Castle Lager Rugby Championship title while winning 11 of their 13 Tests.

Marx, who was voted the top men’s player in South Africa in 2017, came out on top against four very good finalists in Pieter-Steph du Toit, Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, Ox Nche, and Jasper Wiese. Ethan Hooker walked away with the award for SA Rugby Men’s Young Player of the Year.

Roos was voted the outstanding female player in South Africa in a season where the Springbok Women reached the Rugby World Cup playoffs for the first time. The other finalists were Byrhandré Dolf, Aseza Hele, Libbie Janse van Rensburg, and Babalwa Latsha.

Celebrating the success of women’s rugby, two new awards were added to the roster on Thursday, with Roos also taking the crown as Springbok Women’s Sevens Player of the Year, while Byrhandré Dolf – herself a dual-international – was named as the first winner of the SA Rugby Young Women’s Player of the Year award.

Shilton van Wyk (Springbok Sevens Men’s Player of the Year) and Haashim Pead (Junior Springbok Player of the Year) were also honoured for their brilliant performances in green and gold in 2025.

Mr Mark Alexander, President of SA Rugby, congratulated the winners for their outstanding contributions to what was arguably the finest year in the history of South African rugby.

“Malcolm led the charge for the Springboks and richly deserves this accolade alongside his World Rugby Player of the Year Award, while Nadine was the spark that ignited the finest season we have ever witnessed from our Springbok Women,” said Mr Alexander.

“The year 2025 will remain etched in our memories for decades to come, thanks to Rassie, Siya and the Springboks. Yet it was not only the senior team that shone—every one of our national sides delivered and we are immensely proud of all the winners.

“Beyond the Bok Women raising the bar to unprecedented heights, the Junior Boks captured the U20 World Championship for the first time since 2012 and the Blitzboks triumphed in the HSBC SVNS World Championship. Together, these achievements made 2025 not only a golden year, but the best year in the history of SA Rugby.

“Our rugby is thriving at franchise, provincial and club level, which bodes well for the season ahead. Congratulations to all the winners and to every team, coach and player across South Africa and the best of luck for the new season – may we continue to spread hope and happiness.”

Faye Mfikwe, Chief Marketing Officer of FNB, SA Rugby’s principal sponsor and presenting partner for the Awards said: “We are honoured to celebrate the remarkable sportsmen and women recognised at this year’s SA Rugby Awards, whose achievements continue to inspire pride across our nation. Their dedication and excellence reflect the very best of South African rugby, and we are proud to stand alongside SA Rugby as a long‑term partner in advancing the sport from grassroots to greatness.

“Our development partnership has always focused on creating real pathways for young talent, ensuring that every young person in every community has the opportunity to dream, to participate, and to rise. The success highlighted at the Awards this year represents years of hard work that begins on dusty fields, in school competitions, and in community rugby programmes supported through investments such as ours.

“Rugby remains a powerful force for unity, hope and progress. As FNB, we remain committed to strengthening the structures that nurture tomorrow’s champions and to celebrating the heroes who lift the spirit of our nation today.”

On the domestic front, the DHL Stormers’ Feinberg-Mngomezulu (SA Vodacom URC Player of the Season for 2024/25), Donavan Don of the Sanlam Boland Kavaliers (Carling Currie Cup Premier Division Player of the Year), Andrew Kota of the Griffons (Carling Currie Cup First Division Player of the Year) and Patience Mokone of the Isuzu Bulls Daisies (Provincial Women’s Player of the Year) walked away with awards.

Aimee Barrett-Theron capped a great season, during which she took charge of the Women’s Rugby World Cup opening game and one of the semi-finals, by winning the OUTsurance Referee of the Year Award for the fourth time.

The Springboks’ record 43-10 victory over the All Blacks in Wellington, New Zealand last year was voted as the FNB Fans’ Moment of the Year, while SA Wheelchair Rugby was named as the Associate Member of the Year.

Erasmus and Kolisi, as well as the recently retired Springbok Women’s captain Nolusindiso Booi, were amongst a group of six people who received special recognition awards at the Awards.

Kolisi – who was also honoured for this 100th Test cap on the November tour – received the Spirit of ’95 Award for his “exceptional contribution in uplifting the game and the nation, through the example of inclusivity and ubuntu, demonstrating iconic and inspirational leadership to the sport and the country, in the footsteps of the example set by Nelson Mandela in 1995”.

The Springbok Legacy Award, recognising the “extraordinary contribution made by an individual to promote and enhance the standing of Springbok rugby as a force on the field and a power off it by promoting excellence and inclusion to inspire social cohesion, and provide a legacy for the game such that it will resonate throughout the history of South Africa”, was awarded to Erasmus, who also reached 50 Tests as head coach of the Boks last year, only the second person to achieve this milestone.

Furthermore Booi, who retired after the 2025 season, was honoured for reaching 50 Test caps, the first Springbok Women’s player to achieve the feat, while three members of the Springbok management, team manager Charles Wessels (200 Tests), assistant coach Mzwandile Stick (100 Tests), and technical analyst Lindsay Weyer (100 Tests) were also honoured for their achievements.

The prestigious President’s Award was presented to Mr Gavin Varejes, for his contribution to the sport over three decades in many different guises. His support has extended from grassroots development to rural communities through the creation of the South African Rugby Legends Association, which has done extraordinary work in the game for many years.

“Gavin has financially supported individual athletes in ways that may never be known and when rugby has made the call, he has usually had an answer,” said Mr Alexander. “Quite simply, he has been the single biggest benefactor to rugby in South Africa for decades, which is why we are delighted to present this token of our undying appreciation to him.”

SA Rugby Awards 2025 winners and finalists (where applicable):

SA Rugby Men’s Player of the Year: Malcolm Marx
Finalists: Pieter-Steph du Toit, Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, Ox Nche, Jasper Wiese

SA Rugby Women’s Player of the Year: Nadine Roos
Finalists: Byrhandré Dolf, Aseza Hele, Libbie Janse van Rensburg, Babalwa Latsha

Malcolm Marx crowned 2025 SA Rugby Player of the Year Ethan Hooker
Finalists: Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, Canan Moodie, Haashim Pead, Zachary Porthen

SA Rugby Young Women’s Player of the Year: Byrhandré Dolf
Finalists: Patience Mokone, Nombuyekezo Mdliki, Anushka Groenewald

Springbok Men’s Sevens Player of the Year: Shilton van Wyk
Finalists: Selvyn Davids, Impi Visser

Springbok Women’s Sevens Player of the Year: Nadine Roos

Junior Springbok Player of the Year: Haashim Pead
Finalists: Cheswill Jooste, Riley Norton

Team of the Year: Springboks
Finalists: Junior Springboks, Springbok Sevens

Coach of the Year: Rassie Erasmus (Springboks)
Finalists: Swys de Bruin (Springbok Women), Kevin Foote (Junior Springboks), Philip Snyman (Springbok Sevens)

FNB Fans’ Moment of the Year: The Springboks’ record victory over the All Blacks in New Zealand

Carling Currie Cup Premier Division Player of the Year: Donavan Don (Sanlam Boland Kavaliers)
Finalists: Gurshwin Wehr (Suzuki Griquas), George Whitehead (Suzuki Griquas)

Carling Currie Cup First Division Player of the Year: Andrew Kota (NovaVit Griffons)
Finalists: Keagan Fortune (Valke), Willem van den Hever (NovaVit Griffons)

Provincial Women’s Player of the Year: Patience Mokone (Isuzu Bulls Daisies)

SA Vodacom URC Player of the Season (announced last year): Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu (DHL Stormers)

OUTsurance Referee of the Year: Aimee Barrett-Theron

President’s Award: Gavin Varejes

Spirit of ’95 Award: Siya Kolisi

Springbok Legacy Award: Rassie Erasmus

SA Rugby Associate Member of the Year: SA Wheelchair Rugby

Issued by SA Rugby Communications

The post Malcolm Marx crowned 2025 SA Rugby Player of the Year appeared first on SportsClub.

The move marks a significant milestone in Kapank’s career as he continues to climb the ranks of South African rugby, with the versatile backline playmaker having just been named in the Lions’ URC squad.

“Joining Roc Nation Sports International is a dream come true for me,” said Kapank. “When looking at the incredible players and Springbok stars that the agency represents, it’s an honour to be part of the same family. I’m confident that with RNSI’s guidance and global reach, I can reach my full potential on and off the field.”

Kapank’s rise has been a standout story in South African rugby over the last couple of years. After a stellar schoolboy career that saw him represent the Blue Bulls at consecutive U18 Craven Weeks and earn a national call-up to the SA Schools side in 2023, he is now transitioning into the professional structures at senior level.

In 2024, his clinical performances for the Bulls U19 earned him the prestigious Backline Player of the Year award, while his momentum continued into 2025, when he was named in the Junior Springboks squad and featured for the Bulls U21 side.

Most recently, Kapank has stepped into the senior spotlight after earning inclusion in the Lions’ United Rugby Championship (URC) squad for the 2026 season.

“JT is a rare talent whose versatility and natural skills have made him a leading prospect since his schoolboy days,” stated Tamsanqa Ncwana, RNSI’s head of rugby recruiting in South Africa.

“At Roc Nation Sports International, our mission is to identify special individuals who possess not only strong worth ethic and ability on the pitch, but also the character to make a global impact. JT fits that mould perfectly. We are thrilled to work with him as he embarks on this next chapter with the Lions, and to help him navigate what promises to be a successful professional career.”

JT Kapank honours roll

U18 Craven Week: 2022 & 2023

SA Schools: 2023

Bulls U19: 2024

U19 Backline Player of the Year: 2024

Junior Boks Squad: 2025

Bulls U21: 2025

Lions URC Squad: 2026

The post Rising Star JT Kapank Joins Roc Nation Sports International appeared first on SportsClub.

READ: Siya Kolisi to leave Shark for Stormers return

Kolisi is scheduled to return in July 2026, where he will play a key role in mentoring the next generation as the club continues to build depth and maturity within the squad as part of Project 2029.

The move will see Kolisi relocate closer to his family, while also allowing him to make a meaningful contribution to the team where his professional journey began after finishing school.

An experienced leader, Kolisi joins a proud tradition of players returning to Cape Town to add significant value both on and off the field, as the club continues to strengthen its overall resources.

Kolisi’s professional career started in Cape Town, and he is now poised to add to his impressive tally of 118 DHL Stormers caps.

After making his debut in 2012, he was named Stormers captain in 2017 before taking on the same leadership role with the Springboks a year later. He would go on to lift the Rugby World Cup in 2019 and again in 2023.

Driven by a strong desire to return to his roots and be closer to his family, Kolisi is expected to make a major impact at the DHL Stormers, both through his performances on the field and his invaluable mentorship off it.

Stormers Rugby CEO Johan le Roux said he is thrilled to welcome Siya Kolisi back to the franchise.

“Siya is a national icon who has such a strong connection to our team and our supporters. He is also a family man who wants to be there for his children as much as possible.

“These are values that resonate with our club and given the significance of our heritage in defining where we want to go, we are very happy to welcome Siya back to hopefully see out his career in the jersey he wore when it started.

Kolisi said that coming back to Cape Town is a meaningful and special moment for both him and his family.

“I have such incredible memories of my time at the DHL Stormers, the way I was embraced by the fans in my formative years has never left me.

“My family is in Cape Town and it is important to me to be close to them. This move gives me the chance to do that while also giving back to the team and fans who made such a big contribution to the player and person I am today.

“I am looking forward to contributing in any way I can to the future success and happiness of this special club and its incredible supporters,” he said.

Director of Rugby John Dobson said that Kolisi will bring a unique level of value to the squad that no other player can offer.

“We have got an outstanding crop of loose forwards in our squad and a number of very strong young leaders, with the last three Junior Springbok captains all on our books.

“Siya will be able to help develop these players and mentor them in a way that nobody else could, given what he has achieved and what he represents to all South Africans and especially our fans.

“We are very aware of the load that he has carried professionally and personally over the last few years, but what is so encouraging is the way that he has bought into helping us reach the goals we have set for ourselves in developing our squad as we build towards Project 2029,” he said.

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