As a symbolic gesture, rugby jerseys were recently exchanged between the Universal Rugby Football Club (RFC) from Kimberley, and the Clwb Rygbi Pwllheli (Pwllheli Rugby Football Club) from North Wales.
Part of the purpose of this exchange was, amongst others, the forming of ties between these two clubs, and to talk about the possibility of exchanging players in future.
Romeo Syfers, chairperson of Universal RFC, said it was a special meeting between Universal, one of the oldest rugby clubs in South Africa, and the club from Wales, which will be celebrating its 50th year in 2023.
Universal has been in existence for the past 136 years.
It was established in 1886 when Kimberley was little more than a sprawling mining settlement. Men worked hard, and the robust game of rugby provided a wholesome alternative.
The club has survived two world wars, the Great Depression, the siege of Kimberley during the Anglo-Boer War and apartheid.
Although the club has a rich history of community-focused sport and wants to regain the glory years, it is a challenge to get long-term sponsorships, Syfers says.
That is part of the reason why the club’s league games already ended in May, while club rugby is still being played in Northern Cape towns.
Syfers invites businesses and individuals who want to come onboard as sponsors for next year’s season, to contact him. Young players are also welcome to become involved.
Call Syfers on 076-236-5903 or club secretary Leona Voigt on 076-580-3201 for more information.
