The SA Deaf Rugby Association (Sadra) is making history by hosting its first-ever Sevens and Tens international series in Johannesburg from August 3-9. This exciting event will feature top teams from around the world, including Australia, England, Japan, and the host country, SA. Sadra has been making waves in the world of Deaf Rugby, following a fourth-place finish at the 2023 World Deaf Rugby Sevens Championship in Argentina and winning the award for Associate Member of the Year at the SA Rugby Awards.
The International Series, set to take place at St Stithians College, will kick off with the SA Deaf Rugby Sevens International on August 3 and 4, followed by the SA Deaf Rugby Tens International on August 7 and 8. The teams participating in the series include England Deaf Rugby ladies and the R10C select teams, coached by Ryno Combrinck. Trials were held across the country to select the best players, with a hearing classification of a 40DB loss required for participation. All players are over 18 years old.
St Stithians College is proud to host this international tournament, welcoming teams from various countries. The college sees this event as an opportunity to promote rugby development among its students. In line with this, a Women’s Day coaching clinic will be held to enhance the rugby skills of young female athletes. This initiative aligns with the college’s commitment to inclusivity and sporting excellence.
Every game of the series will be broadcast live on the SuperSport Schools app. The marketing and communications manager of SuperSport Schools, Pearl Mashego, emphasized the importance of providing equal opportunities for all athletes to showcase their talents. She believes that this event will inspire many individuals to pursue their dreams, regardless of the obstacles they face.
The SA Sevens and Tens teams have been announced, comprising talented players from various provinces. The teams are gearing up to compete against some of the best international teams in the upcoming series. Sadra is open to partnering with interested sporting bodies or corporates, and those interested can reach out via email for more information.
This international series marks a significant milestone for Deaf Rugby in South Africa, showcasing the skill and passion of deaf rugby players on a global stage. The event is not only about competition but also about fostering inclusivity and providing a platform for athletes to shine. The support and participation in this event will undoubtedly contribute to the continued growth and development of Deaf Rugby in the country.