Dolphin Rugby Club celebrates extraordinary comeback

Dolphin Rugby Club paid tribute to its top-performing members for the 2023 season.

The club chairman, Rowhan Besser, said that the revival of the club - which had been dormant from 2019 to 2022 - has been nothing short of extraordinary. “Our club registered some remarkable achievements and our dedicated team members put in a tremendous effort. We look forward to the challenges and victories the 2024 season will bring.”

Besser said that the success of the club would not have been possible without the unwavering dedication of the coaching triumvirate: Hauta Veii, Otto Swarts, and Jaco Barnard. “Their commitment on and off the field has played a pivotal role in our triumphant return to the rugby scene.”

He also commended the player of the year, Walter Johr, for his passion for the game, leadership on the field, and outstanding performance. “You have set a standard for greatness. May your successes inspire us all to reach new heights!”

Besser congratulated all the winners who received recognition for their outstanding contributions, saying their hard work and dedication have not gone unnoticed. He quoted the Brazilian soccer legend Pelé who said: “Success is no accident. It is hard work, perseverance, learning, studying, sacrifice, and most of all, love of what you are doing or learning to do.”

He added that each of the recipients had showcased immense dedication, skill, and heart throughout the season and contributed to making the 2021/22 season a truly unforgettable one for Dolphin Rugby Club.

Besser encouraged those who did not receive a prize to remember the words of the legendary Vince Lombardi: “It's not whether you get knocked down, it's whether you get up.”

“Never give up, your time will come,” he added.

He thanked all club members for their dedication, commitment, and passion for the game. He further urged them to continue building on the success and make Dolphin Rugby Club a force to be reckoned with.

Besser said that at the onset of the 2021/22 campaign, the club's goals seemed ambitious. “We set ourselves a target to win 80% of our home games, secure 50-60% of the away games, and reach the quarter-finals of the NRU First League. Against all odds, we not only met but surpassed these objectives with a flawless record both at home and away - a phenomenal achievement for our first year back in action.”

He also hailed the establishment of a Dolphin Rugby Club Academy under the guidance of players Pieter Enslin, Keanu Engelbrecht, Rudi Gawaseb, and Wayne Hearlen, which has been a resounding success. “We eagerly anticipate the academy's participation in competitions against other schools and teams in 2024.”

Besser extended a heartfelt thank you to the club's sponsors and expressed appreciation for the management team and Girls Club. “Your support is integral to fulfilling our commitment to the league. Morne Visser, Rathan Coetzee, Heinie Kock, John Steenkamp, Peone Nel, and Susan Stander. Your steadfast support has been invaluable in the revival of rugby in Swakopmund. Special thanks to the Girls Club for their unwavering assistance and invaluable contributions to our club.”

Award recipients

Supporter of the Year: Jannie Resandt

Clubman of the Year: Nivine Nel

Most Devoted Player: Zonkies Brendell

Most Consistent Player: Wayne Hearlen

Impact Player of the Year: Keanu Engelbrecht

Gladiator of the Year: Romario Janga

Upcoming Forward Player of the Year: Rudi Gaweseb

Upcoming Backline Player of the Year: Rashaad van Rooyen

Tommy Forbes Forward Player of the Year: Lorenzo Groenewald

Forward Player of the Year: Sean de Klerk.

Backline Player of the Year: Herman van Zyl (“Your agility and speed is a force to be reckoned with!”)

Junior Player of the Year: Zenowayne Goliath

Coach of the Year: Hauta Veii

Management Member of the Year: Rowhan Besse

Players' Player of the Year: Zinzan Steenkamp