Hollywood Foundation Rugby Festival Brings Premier Club Showdown to Mpumalanga:
Mpumalanga’s rugby calendar is set for a major boost as the inaugural Hollywood Foundation Rugby Festival makes its highly anticipated debut, bringing together eight competitive clubs for a showcase of elite local talent, fast –paced action and community celebration.
Hosted in partnership with Airlink Pumas, the festival marks a significant moment for rugby development in the province. Taking place on Saturday, 14 March at Witbank Hoërskool Patriot, the action kicks off at 11:30 with Bethal RC facing Benoni RC in the opening fixture.
The participating clubs include Bethal RC, Newcastle RC, Witbank RC, Benoni RC, Nigel RC, Hollywoodbets Harlequins and Elander RC, bringing together some of the region’s most competitive club talent under one banner.
Beyond the on-field action, the festival provides a powerful springboard for aspiring athletes. Coaches, scouts and provincial rugby leaders will be in attendance, while regional live streaming is expected to reach thousands of viewers, amplifying exposure for participating players. Live entertainment, food vendors and community exhibitors will further enhance the vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere.
The initiative forms part of the Hollywood Foundation’s broader commitment to grassroots sport. As long-standing supporters of the Hollywood Foundation Iqhawe Week, delivered in partnership with the South African Rugby Legends Association, the Foundation continues to invest in sustainable development structures that strengthen rugby at every level.
Chumani Booi, Mpumalanga Rugby Union, Co-Ordinator Rugby Development announced “The Mpumalanga Rugby Union and its Clubs, through the Hollywood Foundation sponsored Rugby Festival, will give the participating clubs the preparation needed for the start of the 2026 Club Rugby season. As the Festival includes teams from the neighbouring provinces, this strengthens these relationships and gives all teams different oppositions to test themselves outside of their respective provincial club competitions. We are all truly grateful for the support of Hollywood Foundation and we look forward to a fun and action filled day of rugby. As this is planned to be an annual event, we see this growing as a Festival with more teams participating in the years to come.”
Vuyisile Ngobese, Public Relations Officer at the Hollywood Foundation said, “At the Hollywood Foundation, we believe that rugby has the power to change lives, build character, and unite communities. Our support for this inaugural festival reflects our ongoing commitment to creating real opportunities for aspiring players.
By investing in development platforms like this, we are helping to shape the next generation of rugby talent and ensuring that young athletes from all backgrounds are given a chance to shine.”
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Author: Ruth Nokulunga Majola from Hollywood Foundation on behalf of Hollywood Foundation.
– MyPR
