The Varsity Cup team and Joubert Schoeman were among the many award recipients who received recognition on a night dedicated to excellence and a passion for the game.
Coaches and players traded boots for formal wear on Monday night as the North-West University (NWU) Rugby Institute hosted its year-end function and awards ceremony. Known for their grit on the field, the athletes were now dressed to the nines, celebrating a season of hard work, growth and historic success.
“Rugby is more than a game. It is a reflection of who we are and what we stand for.”
These powerful words set the tone for the evening, highlighting the deeper meaning behind the sport and the values it represents.
Dr Corrie Rheeder, director of Student Life on the Potchefstroom Campus, opened the ceremony with a heartfelt message, commending the players for their dedication and applauding the Rugby Institute for its ongoing excellence. She reminded the audience that this night was not just about awards, but about honouring the collective spirit and the commitment that drives the team.
The room was filled with sportsmen and sportswomen, united by their passion for rugby and the sense of belonging it creates. It was a celebration not just of results, but of the shared journey behind every match, training session and sacrifice.
Jean Marc Stidworthy, director of Marketing and Student Recruitment, delivered an inspiring speech, encouraging the athletes with these words: “We all have stories, heartaches and victories, and these shared experiences shape each of us. Sport has the ability beyond measure to connect people. Remember, you are here to study. You are students and athletes. Each and every moment can make a huge difference, and your contribution matters. You are not only representing the NWU, but also your future self. At the NWU, we believe opportunities do not just appear; they show up when we do. You all show up in every unseen moment ;staff, coaches and athletes, we celebrate you and your passion. We look forward to the future that you are helping to create.”
The awards ceremony honoured some of the most outstanding achievements of the season:
· Vice-Chancellor’s Award: presented to the Varsity Cup team for the most remarkable event of the season. This team made history by becoming the first NWU side ever to score 100 points in a Varsity Cup match ; an extraordinary milestone that captured national attention.
· Johan Claassen Trophy (Rugby Institute Player of the Year) awarded to Joubert Schoeman, who not only delivered exceptional performances on the field but also secured a South African Sevens (SA 7s) contract, reflecting the world-class talent being developed at the NWU.
These were just some of the awards presented during the evening, as coaches, players and support staff received recognition for their contributions, both on and off the pitch.
In his closing address, Mervyn Taylor, manager of the Rugby Institute, shared his pride and gratitude: “I am immensely proud of these players, not only for the exceptional service they have provided on the field, but also for the example they have set through their academic achievements. I am confident that they will continue to take their careers to new heights. It is indeed a privilege to play for this institution.”
