A Kimberley-born and bred rugby boy, who has been playing the sport since the tender age of four, has been selected to play in Italy for the Southern Cape Sports Tour in September.

Cole Limburgh (16) has a history of rugby players in his bloodline and wants to make his family proud by someday becoming a professional rugby player. He aims to achieve this dream by going through each phase of the sport.

‘My dad was murdered last year’

He started playing and fell in love with the sport in Grade R, 12 years ago, and his passion for it grows daily.

When asked where he draws inspiration from, Cole mentioned that it is from his late father who always encouraged and supported him: “My dad was murdered last year while I was away for a provincial tournament. It was the first time I played for the U/17 Griquas and it was the most exciting experience.” 

Cole is determined to make his father proud even in death. 

Cole Limburgh (right) in Staats Primary School’s rugby uniform. Photo supplied

After playing at a tournament in George at the beginning of this year – unbeknown to Cole or his teammates – those selected to play in Italy were announced. To his surprise, he was selected. “I literally wept, I was blown away. This was something I never expected. I always dreamt about travelling abroad one day, but this opportunity made that dream reachable.”

The community of Kimberley has been incredibly supportive of Cole since finding out about this achievement. This further motivates Cole to be “better than yesterday and to make my community proud”.

Cole received an award at school. Photo supplied

Hard work, discipline, and teamwork are the three main values Cole holds to reaching his dreams.

OFM News/Casey-Lee Anthony cg/mc