Rugby Spirit on Show as Schools Converge for Lord Brighton College Tourney

By Desire Tshuma

Nyabira — The winter air at Lord Brighton College has been charged with tackles, tries and school pride as the college hosts its annual inter-schools rugby competition, drawing teams from across Mashonaland and beyond.

The tournament, staged with support from title sponsor BMT Holdings, is now in full swing on the college’s manicured fields. Junior and senior sides in the U14, U16 and 1st XV categories have turned Nyabira into a hub of schoolboy rugby.

Hosts Lord Brighton College gave their supporters plenty to cheer about yesterday, claiming a key win over Marondera High School in a hard-fought clash that drew loud cheers from the home crowd.

Lord Brighton College CEO Mr Douglas Mashiri said the tournament reflects the school’s commitment to sport and youth development. “As a college, we believe rugby builds character beyond the classroom,” Mashiri said. “Hosting this competition allows us to open our doors to fellow schools and give young players a stage to test themselves. We are grateful to BMT Holdings for sharing that vision and investing in the future of Zimbabwean sport.”

BMT Holdings said backing the event aligns with its commitment to youth and community development. “Sport teaches discipline, teamwork and leadership,” said a BMT Holdings spokesperson. “We’re proud to partner with Lord Brighton College to create a platform where young talent can be seen, nurtured, and given a pathway to grow both on and off the field.”

For visiting teams, the tournament is both an opportunity and a challenge. Entumbane High School coach, who brought his side from Bulawayo, praised the level of competition but highlighted the financial strain many schools face.

“This is top-quality rugby and our boys are learning so much,” the Entumbane coach said. “But the reality is travel, kit, and player welfare all cost money. We are actively looking for sponsorship for the team. Support from corporates can be the difference between a talented player making it or falling away because of lack of resources.”

Tournament director noted that the event’s focus is development. “We’ve got schools here that don’t meet often during the season. This gives players exposure to different styles, different coaching philosophies. That’s how you grow the game,” he said.

Beyond the 1st XV, the U14 and U16 fixtures have been a showcase for emerging talent. Several coaches highlighted the pace and skill on display in the younger age groups, with players using the tournament to press claims for provincial selection later in the year.

The partnership with BMT Holdings has also boosted tournament logistics, covering medical support, match-day branding, and player welfare initiatives. Outstanding players will receive recognition awards courtesy of the sponsor during finals day.

The tournament wraps up tomorrow when finals are played between Old Hararians and Sports Club, with a full day of junior and senior deciders scheduled. While trophies will be lifted, most coaches agree the bigger win is the experience.

“Rugby teaches discipline, brotherhood, and resilience,” said Mr Mashiri. “When these boys walk off the field at Lord Brighton, win or lose, they’ll be better for it.”