Changing lives with rugby
The Rugby World Cup has come and gone, but the “gees” is at an all time high in Manenberg, as hundreds of youths' lives are being transformed simply by being part of a rugby programme at their schools.
Manenberg resident Jason Poleman started a non-profit company, Just Planting Seeds (JPS), three years ago to introduce the youth not only to the sport, but also to the values and discipline he says go with it.
Growing up in the area, he was among those who didn’t fall into the trap of crime as he had a chance to play semi-professional rugby both in South Africa and abroad in the UK, Malaysia, and Singapore.
“Wherever I have coached, I could see how programmes like this benefited children. It was always on my heart to do something for the children of my community.
“Covid sparked a lot of things. My brother and I used to kick the ball on the field when our movements were restricted. More children joined us, and in 2021, we started a coaching programme. We now have children from six primary schools and three high schools in Manenberg taking part in the programme and have introduced the sport to 750 children so far.”
On Friday May 17, all the schools competed against each other for the annual tournament, which was held at Downeville Primary School.
From this tournament, a boys’ and girls’ team are selected to represent Manenberg schools at other tournaments nationally.
The programme is not only about the sport, however. Participants all have score cards, where they can earn points for their commitment, their academic performance and their attitude in class.
The JPS programme also takes the children on excursions and hosts workshops and camps. Teachers from the schools involved have come on board to assist with the programme.
Downeville Primary School principal Maurice Hefke said the programme had had a positive impact on his pupils.
“I can see the change in the classroom. The children are much more disciplined. There is a commitment and passion for the game. We use rugby as an incentive. If one of the children lands up in my office for a transgression, then we take one week of rugby away from them.
“Everybody wants to play rugby now - especially the girls. When I look at them, I see a different child on the field. We really value the input and the programme of JPS. Our children are becoming legends at school now. Many of them walk around with rugby balls. The programme also teaches them about respect, commitment, their attitude and academic performance.”
The success stories include five boys being selected to play in the country’s Legends Cup and two girls representing the Western Cape Touch Rugby Association in the national inter-provincial tournament in Johannesburg. The matches were televised and the girls also spent time with the Australian women’s 7s team.
Sherezaan Fortune, 14, who is the captain of the girls’ team (representing Manenberg schools), said she didn’t know much about the sport when she started.
“At first, I took it as a joke, but now I see a professional future for me in rugby. My academics have also improved, and I no longer have a fear of public speaking. I am grateful for everything JPS afforded me. I travelled to Johannesburg and George and I would not have experienced that if it was not for JPS.”
Chad Peters, 13, the captain of the boys’ team, said the game taught him discipline.
“Our coaches are very encouraging. There would always be training or workshops, and I would much rather be here than on the streets. I can see myself playing rugby professionally.”
The programme is in need of funds to cover transport and meals, among other things, Mr Poleman said. Many of their practices or matches happen outside of Manenberg because of the gang violence in the area and some children come to practices on empty stomachs, he added. They are also in need of rugby goal posts. If you can assist, email: justplantingseeds22@gmail.com or call 076 749 7768.
