We were all inspired watching nations from across the globe compete in the Rugby World Cup in Japan – with the South African victory, whilst heart-breaking for England supporters, extraordinarily moving for Springbok fans. I applaud the efforts of South Africa on such a big day for their team and nation and those of you who may not have heard some the individual stories of the South African players and their paths to world cup glory, may want to take time to seek them out, and in particular, the story of the Team’s inspirational captain Siya Kolisi and his own journey to leading his national team to World Cup glory.
At the Prep School the final battle between these two titanic rugby nations prompted a good humoured competition between Eva in Year 8 and myself – both of us extremely confident that our nations would be holding the Webb Ellis Cup at the end. The player stories inspired both Eva and myself and as an outcome of England losing in the Final I agreed to have my hair shaved off in a whole school assembly – with Eva controlling the clippers! It was an opportunity for me to not only show the children how Sport can bring people and nations together and the importance of being gracious in defeat, but more crucially, to help raise much-needed funds for the Bhubesi Pride Foundation – an organisation that supports rugby centred projects throughout nations in southern Africa, empowering communities and inspiring international participation to affect change. We hope that the funds we have raised so far will go some way to helping this wonderful cause continue its work. It will also keep me smiling when the winter chill sets in and I am a little less insulated! Stuart Ware
If you would like to donate to the Bhubesi Pride Foundation, please visit Stuart’s Just Giving Page or visit the Bhubesi Pride Foundation’s website to find out more.
