About

In South Africa, rugby has always been more than just a game. It has broken down barriers, united communities, and inspired a nation. Yet for many young people, opportunities to play remain few and far between.

This is especially relevant in the Great Kei region, a rural area in the beautiful Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. There has always been an amazing passion for rugby in the Great Kei but opportunities to play sport have mainly died at schools in the area.

After many discussions and engagement with schools, co-founders Ivan Deetlefs and Thembi Tshijila agreed that an annual schools tournament was the best way forward and so the Great Kei Schools Rugby Tournament was created.

The first tournament held on 3 May 2025 was a huge success with 270 players participating and was greeted with huge excitement from participants and spectators alike. 

Through rugby, we are building more than just players — we are building hope, discipline, teamwork, opportunity and our future leaders.