By Amber Steyn
On Saturday, 4 October, Maties Rugby hosted their annual Awards evening to celebrate the outstanding performance of the Maties Rugby players. According to Drikus Hancke, the Head of Maties Rugby, the trophies awarded represent both the Maties Rugby legacy and the players’ effort throughout the season. He stated, “[It’s] the hard work of the present, and the vision we carry into the future.”
Ezekiel Ngobeni, the captain and scrumhalf of the team said, “It’s truly a humbling feeling to be recognised by my peers and teammates for my efforts throughout the season. I’m grateful to have received this award knowing [that] so many players have contributed immensely to the season that has passed.” Ngobeni had won the awards for Mitchum Varsity Cup Player of the Competition and Mitchum Senior Players’ Player of the Year Award. He stated that the credit should be given to the management group and the players who were involved. He added that a healthy environment was what made coming to work a true joy, enhancing a sense of freedom.
Ngobeni shared that “showcasing the goodness of God and letting His light shine through that [which] we do both on and off the field […]” was what kept him motivated during the season. He expressed that his family had also played a pivotal role in keeping him going on this journey. This year, Ngobeni’s standout memory was the first Varsity Cup game. As one of the youngest captains to lead the Maties Rugby team, he stated, “It will always be an honour for me and playing at a sold-out Danie Craven Stadium was [truly] special […] just seeing the joy we bring to those who came week in and week out.”
Liza Slabbert, a player of the Women’s rugby team, won the Hi-Tec Women’s Back of the Year award, and the Hi-Tec Women’s Players’ Player of the Year award. Slabbert, who has been playing for Maties Rugby since 2023, believes that what has contributed the most to her success was the support of those around her. She said, “Having teammates and coaches who believed in me pushed me to keep improving. […] I’m also incredibly grateful for the constant support from my family and my girlfriend, I couldn’t have done it without them.”
Hancke stated, “Each of these categories is proudly sponsored by one of our club sponsors. They not only lend their names to the awards but also contribute sponsored gifts that form part of the prizes for our winners.” Slabbert shared that the awards are not only a reflection of her own hard work, but of what it means to be a part of Maties rugby culture. Even though this was one of her toughest rugby seasons, she “chose to persevere and keep working hard, and that’s why receiving these awards was especially meaningful to [her]”. To show further appreciation, Ngobeni said, “On behalf of all players, I would like to thank the management, staff members, sponsors, parents and overall rugby lovers for their continuous support and love shown this season […].”
