At today’s council meeting, Overstrand Municipality had the privilege of welcoming some special guests to the gallery to celebrate the outstanding achievements of our local rugby teams, who’ve recently brought home big victories.
First up, Overstrand Municipality honoured the Walkerbay Women’s Rugby Team, also known as the Walkerbabes, for their incredible achievement in winning the Super 8 Championship for five years in a row (Back to Back to Back to Back to Back) last Saturday. On top of that, they also clinched the title of Club Champions for two consecutive years.
MMC for Community Services and Ward 4 Councillor, Ronald Nutt, whose ward includes Mount Pleasant, where many of the players are from, congratulated the team for their dedication and success. He highlighted how the Walkerbabes serve as a feeder team for the Boland provincial squad, with several players making it to the highest levels of South African rugby.
Councillor Nutt also spoke about the important role the Walkerbabes are playing in showing young girls in our communities that there are real opportunities in sport, particularly in women’s rugby.
Councillor Nutt also spoke about the important role the Walkerbabes are playing in showing young girls in our communities that there are real opportunities in sport, particularly in women’s rugby.
Overstrand Executive Mayor, Ald Archie Klaas, also took a moment to celebrate Aseza Hele, or Blommie, as most know her, one of the standout players for the Springbok Women’s Rugby Team at the Rugby World Cup 2025.
Blommie is known as the “sweetheart” off the field, but when that whistle blows, eish, she turns into a powerhouse! As a loose forward for the Springboks, Blommie was recognised not only for her skill and tenacity on the field but for the inspiration she brings to women’s rugby. Councillor Nutt described her as a true icon for Overstrand, motivating young rugby players to believe in their dreams and pursue them with the same passion and commitment.
While on the topic of women’s rugby, a special mention was made of Layla Arrison, the new face as a commentator for SuperSport, covering both men’s and women’s cricket and rugby. Layla was also one of the pioneers who captained the first-ever women’s rugby team at Stellenbosch University, paving the way for future generations of female athletes.
Finally, the Atlantics Rugby Football Club (RFC) from Mount Pleasant, who were crowned Boland Super 16 Champions in Wellington last weekend, received their well-deserved recognition. Captain Conway Sauls was present to collect a certificate on behalf of his team. What makes this achievement even more special is that Conway’s father, Colin Sauls, is part of the team’s coaching staff. Under their leadership, the Atlantic RFC team went unbeaten throughout the entire season.
Councillor Nutt commended Captain Conway for his exceptional leadership, team spirit, and dedication, and praised the entire team for their remarkable achievement. “Waa’s ons? Hie’s ons!”
During the certificate handover, Mayor Archie Klaas shared his unforgettable experience of the Boland Super 16 Champions 2025 finals in Wellington, saying, “I will never forget it in my whole life.” The atmosphere in the stadium was electric, and it gave him goosebumps all the way. “The original Overstrand Derby is back, and I cannot wait for the new season!”
