Cape Town - The memory of anti-apartheid martyr Imam Abdullah Haron endures through a youth rugby tournament designed to honour his legacy.
The Primrose Cricket and Rugby Club this week launched an inspiring venue as Awqaf SA introduced the Imam Abdullah Haron Youth Rugby Festival, scheduled for the Primrose Sports Field over the weekends of September 21-22 and September 28-29.
Awqaf SA CEO Mickaeel Collier said that by participating in the tournament, the players were benefiting from the achievements of past greats of the game.
“Rugby and the enjoyment on the field is the by-product of the type of lessons that we would like to be imparted to you in this tournament,” he told the players.
Awqaf SA was established in 2000, to uplift struggling communities.
Collier said: “Your history and identity come from there, you stand on the legacy, on the shoulders of great leaders.”
There will be six to eight boys’ teams, encompassing both primary and high school learners, along with three girls’ teams, competing in exhibition matches.
Haron was a celebrated anti-apartheid figure who dedicated his life to the pursuit of justice and equality.
His dedication to community development resonates strongly within the initiative, exemplifying values that extend beyond the rugby pitch.
The tournament, in partnership with the Imam Haron Foundation, also serves as a reminder of his principles, fostering a culture of brotherhood and resilience among young players who can emulate Haron’s commitment to social improvement.
Professor Muhammed Haron, the son of the late Imam, urged all participating teams to exemplify camaraderie.
“The importance again is not just to participate in sport for the sake of it, but to bring about brotherhood among ourselves.
“Let us keep that spirit up and camaraderie going, and one of those ways is through sport,” Haron said.
The Primrose team has embraced the role of custodian for the tournament, reflecting a spirit of leadership and accountability.
Primrose Rugby chairperson Walid Brown said the tournament would lack significance without the participating teams and advocated for rugby to emerge as the true victor.
Teams including Collegians Rugby Football Club, Hamediehs RFC, Violets, Manenberg Rangers and Surrey Estate Rangers are among those participating in the tournament.
“This tournament has grown a life of its own since Covid.
“To all the players, we wish you good luck over the prestigious tournament, we are sure you are going to amaze us with good and beautiful rugby,” Brown added.
Cape Argus