Rising stars converge on Pretoria for FNB U16 Grant Khomo Week

The future of South African rugby will be on full display next week as 20 provincial teams gather in Pretoria for the highly anticipated FNB U16 Grant Khomo Week, which kicks off on Monday, 30 June, at St Alban’s College.

This tournament, part of SA Rugby’s FNB Youth Weeks programme, serves as a crucial stepping stone for young talent, providing a platform for skill development, national exposure, and personal growth. The Grant Khomo Week, along with the FNB U16 and U18 Girls’ Weeks, launches the annual series of youth rugby events aimed at nurturing the next generation of elite players.

SA Rugby President Mark Alexander emphasised the broader impact of the Youth Weeks, saying, “The FNB Youth Weeks have never been just tournaments. They are platforms where dreams take shape and potential is given a path. They develop talent while also contributing to nation-building.”

He added that these gatherings not only offer exposure and competition but also instil values such as character, discipline, and a sense of unity.

The action kicks off with Zimbabwe facing Border Country Districts on the Baloyi A Field, setting the tone for a packed week of rugby. A highlight of day one will be the clash between Western Province, unbeaten in last year’s tournament, and Free State on the Moshate Field following the opening ceremony. Another key fixture sees last year’s unofficial finalists, the Blue Bulls, taking on Boland.

One of the standout developments this year is the return of the SA Rugby Legends’ Iqhawe XV to the tournament for the first time since 2018. The invitational team, aimed at promoting rugby among previously disadvantaged communities, will be coached by former Springbok centre and assistant coach Dick Muir. They begin their campaign with a match against Griquas.

Running from 30 June to 4 July, the FNB Grant Khomo Week promises to deliver top-tier schoolboy rugby and marks an important milestone in South Africa’s player development pipeline.