In what was supposed to be a celebration of schoolboy rugby the VirSeker Competition is busy degrading into a battle of egos. The well-known battle between Waterkloof and Garsfontein seems to be heading to the courts after Waterkloof threatened the VirSeker Committee to either lift their suspension from the competition or face legal action.
Waterkloof's participation in the VirSeker Competition was ended when the Noordvaal Committee, who are organising the VirSeker Competition decided to suspend Waterkloof effectively ending their chances to play in the playoffs in the Macro School's league. Waterkloof was given an ultimatum to play against Garsfontein before the end of June or face suspension, which Waterkloof refused.
"Indien u oordeel is dat die besluit van krag moet bly sal ons kliënt hulle posisie heroorweeg, wat sal insluit om die hooggeregshof op 'n dringende basis te nader," according to J.W. Botha Ingelyf. was Waterkloof's response and now the whole competition is held hostage by some big egos.
Some serious questions have to be asked:
- The Noordvaal Committee knew about Waterkloof's refusal to play against Garsfontein and surely should have suspended Waterkloof before the competition even started.
- If Garsfontein's policy of active "poaching" is not acceptable why were no rules and guidelines put into place to regulate the "poaching", which is a well-known problem at all schools? And if the rules exist and Garsfontein transgressed why were they not suspended.
- Why is Waterkloof fighting to stay in the competition or will they again approach the courts to be declared the winner when they refuse to play against Garsfontein in the playoffs or even in the final.
- All involved is supposed to have the children's interest as their first and biggest priority. I am sure if any of the players are asked they would just want to play rugby. Compete against the best.
To read previous articles on this tragedy just click on the links below.
31 May 2017 - This is "VirSeker 'n gemors"
01 June 2017 - Waterkloof Responds