Hillcrest United is celebrating its 25th anniversary in fine style with its maiden qualification to the Sanlam Boland Top 12 competition.
In the early days of Hillcrest, there are a few names that carry as much weight, or heart, as Bryan “Katto” Cato. A founding member of the club, Cato was known for his toughness on the field and inevitable deep loyalty off it. His nickname, “Katto en grate,” was earned the hard way.
“I was the skinniest guy in the team, but also the hardest player,” Cato said. “I was the only one who could punch above my height, and this came in handy when an opposition hooker or a prop was a bit of a nuisance, especially at scrum time.”
For more than eight memorable years, Cato played lock and flank for Hillies. His presence in the pack became the heartbeat of the team, where toughness and camaraderie mattered more than size. Among his closest allies on the field were the late John Abrahams and Leon Cupido, affectionately known as Hoppie; players who have the same fighting spirit, values, and beliefs that helped shape the club’s early identity.
“Wyle John Abrahams was a great leader; he bled for the team.”
Cato believes that the 2000 season – the inaugural year of the club – stands out for him. It was the season Hillcrest defeated Abbotsdale in the final; a moment of that will always be remembered with pride, for the club and the community.
His performances that year earned him the first-ever Hillies Sportsman of the Year award, along with six Man of the Match awards. A quarter-century later, Cato’s message to the Hillcrest family is one of unity and resilience.
“In 2000, the team showed that Hillcrest could rise above. We were thrown into the deep end and had to swim for survival.
“To the management, coaches, and players—stand strong and be there for one another. Hillcrest has always been one of the top teams in Boland. Let’s bring back that power, but it starts with teamwork. Remember, rugby is a team sport—you’re never too big for the game.”