by Marscelli Mar-C Oppelt
Nestled among rolling vineyards and sun-soaked fields of Darling exists a community-driven organisation, The Darling Rugby Club. For five years, like a proud lion prowling its territory, the club had fought bravely in the Sanlam Boland Top 12, but it had always seemed to fall just short of the ultimate prize. This year, however, there is a sense of change and hope that they will go the extra mile despite their tough fixture draw.
As the club gathered for their first training session of the competition, coaches barked commands that intermingled with laughter and camaraderie, fuelling the energy that electrified every young player. Their hearts were set, not just on competing but on conquering their darkest memories: last year’s agonising semi-final loss to Safcol United RFC, the reigning champions left them gutted, to say the least.
Captain Mitchum Fortuin, a stalwart of the team known for his leadership and resilience, gathered the players in a huddle. “This isn’t just another year,” he said. “This is our time! The ‘pool of death’ may have its formidable foes, but it also has us! We will harness our strength, our strategy, and our spirit. We will not just play; we will fight!”
His words ignited a passion and fire within each player. They know what is expected of them and that the path ahead will have many challenges, but they also recognise that every challenge presents an opportunity to grow stronger.
Redemption may come sooner rather than later, Safcol and Darling are both in Pool B, and the thought of getting the chance of a victory over the Sanlam Boland Top 12 champs is motivation enough.
The weeks of training for the competition were tough and the players were pushed, at times, beyond their limits. But these times helped solidify some strong bonds and helped perfect innovative tactics.
Following the practice session, the team would gather and end up sharing stories and dreams while enjoying a healthy, chocolate milk drink, proudly sponsored by Darling Romery. They are more than just teammates; they are brothers, united with a common goal.
As the tournament draws closer, the matches will be intense and fevered, each one a testament to their hard work and determination. The Darling Rugby Club will face teams that have underdog stories of their own, and with each match, the club will not only hope to bag the victory but win some hearts along the way as well. The community rallies behind them, and soon the stands will be filled with families and friends, cheering their beloved Darling charges reminding the players that they are never alone on this journey.
Excitement is contagious as last year’s semi-finalists prepare for the intense competition that lies ahead but they are determined to make a deep run and reach this year’s finals.