Southwestern Districts were crowned champions of the 2026 Hollywood Foundation Iqhawe Week for under-15 teams, which concluded at HTS Drostdy in Worcester on Thursday, after the Eagles edged Border 10-7 in front of a crowd of players, coaches, parents and supporters.
Along with SWD, the Griffons – who also won all three of their matches – Western Province and Border proved to be the powerhouses of the tournament. Sixteen teams from all of SA Rugby’s provincial unions were in action in three matches across the week, which started on Monday, 28 September, with hosts Boland fielding two sides.
The organisers also made mention of the Limpopo Blue Bulls and the Golden Lions, both of whom showed real progress throughout the week, an encouraging sign for the development of the game in their regions.
Beyond the results, Iqhawe Week continues to do what it was created to do: give promising young players a national platform, expose them to quality competition, and support their growth on and off the field.
SA Rugby President Mark Alexander praised the impact of the programme and the role played by former players in shaping its success.
“The fact that many of these players are now progressing through the pathway is a direct result of the investment made by the SA Rugby Legends Association through the Vuka Programme and the U15 Iqhawe Week,” said Alexander.
“These initiatives continue to open doors for young players from underserved communities, ensuring that where a player comes from never determines how far they can go. The success of this programme is also a powerful reminder that rugby's greatest legacy is not only measured on the field, but in the opportunities we create for future generations.
“Through the outstanding work of the SA Rugby Legends Association and the Vuka Programme, many of our former players continue to invest their time, experience and passion in developing young talent. Their commitment to giving back is helping to transform lives, strengthen communities and ensure that talented young players, regardless of their background, have access to opportunities to pursue their dreams.
“We thank these legends of our game for their continued contribution. Their involvement demonstrates the enduring values of rugby and the profound impact they continue to have long after their playing careers have ended.”
According to Ian Schwartz, SA Rugby’s General Manager for Participation and Development, the talent on display was arguably the strongest in recent years.
“What stood out was the number of outstanding players emerging from smaller and rural schools across the country,” said Schwartz.
“It is further proof that talent exists in every corner of South Africa. Our role is to ensure that every talented player, regardless of background or geography, has a pathway to fulfil their potential and pursue their Springbok dream.
“The commitment of the players and coaches, and the quality of rugby on show was outstanding, and it speaks to the future of the game.”
Jessie Claassen, Director of Vuka Rugby at SARLA, said: “We’d like to also extend our sincere thanks to the Hollywood Foundation for its continued support, to HTS Drostdy for its hospitality, and to all the coaches, managers, match officials, volunteers and parents who made the week possible.”