Two of Louis Trichardt’s very own young rugby players have been handpicked to be part of an international sevens tournament later this year.AC Geldenhuys and Ali Sofele are both pupils at Louis Trichardt High School who play for their first rugby team. Three weeks ago, the two’s team played a match against Merensky High School, where they were selected for the Eagles Invitational U/19 team that has entered the Emirates Airline Dubai Rugby Sevens tournament.

This tournament is held in conjunction with the World Rugby men’s and women’s Sevens World Series, and will take place in Dubai from 3 to 5 December. Annually, the tournament is attended by more than 120 000 people who come to watch the 16 international rugby teams and 160 invitational teams who travel from all over the world to be part of the tournament.

The Eagles’ Invitational Team consists of young players selected from across South Africa. From Limpopo, apart from AC and Ali, only two more players were selected, both from Merensky.

Both AC and Ali impressed the Eagles’ scout. Especially AC was recommended for his light footwork and swiftness in the game.  The duo’s coaches are especially impressed with them and are helping with extra practise and raising funds for the two.

Players who are entered into the tournament are responsible for the payment of their own inclusive tournament fee. For AC and Ali, this will be R25 000 each.

Both have already started collecting money to enable them to attend the tournament, but residents are also welcome to help them. For more information, the school can be contacted at Tel 015 516 4965.