What began as a modest endeavour has blossomed into a thriving community of 75 members, boasting 41 registered pullers and showcasing the city’s burgeoning interest in this timeless sport.
Tug of War, once a staple of schoolyard games and community festivals, has surged back into prominence in Kimberley over the last couple of years.
So much so that the Flamingo Tug of War Club was established in December 2023, marking a significant milestone in the city’s sporting landscape.
What began as a modest endeavour has blossomed into a thriving community of 75 members, boasting 41 registered pullers and showcasing the city’s burgeoning interest in this timeless sport.
But the Flamingo Tug of War Club isn’t just about competition – it’s a family affair. Catering to participants of all ages, from energetic youngsters to seasoned seniors, the club offers a unique opportunity for families to bond while engaging in physical activity.
Children aged six to 13 can participate in the barefoot class, while juniors, aged between 14 to 18, and seniors aged 19 and above, can compete.
And for those who’ve given their all to the tug, there’s no shortage of camaraderie and community spirit to be found within the club’s ranks.
At the helm of the Flamingo Tug of War Club’s operations are a dedicated team of individuals committed to its success. Chairperson Tienie Struwig, Vice Chairperson Brian Nieman, Secretary Chantal Jooste, and Treasurer Lorette Pieters work tirelessly to ensure the club’s smooth functioning, while Head Coach Kobus Louw brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the training ground.
Speaking of training, the Flamingo Tug of War Club takes its preparations seriously. With practice sessions scheduled three days a week at the Kimberley Rugby Club Players Pub, members have ample opportunity to fine-tune their skills and build camaraderie.
Under the watchful eye of Coach Louw, who boasts coaching experience at various national levels, pullers of all levels are nurtured and mentored to reach their full potential.
But a successful sports club relies not only on talent and dedication but also on the support of the community. Fortunately, the Flamingo Tug of War Club has found ample support from local businesses eager to back their endeavours.
BB Motor Group, Steel Grain Logistics, Libra Insurance Brokers, Sewing Tonnes, and Bulperd Trailers have all lent their support, sponsoring everything from pulling jerseys to practice shirts, ensuring that the team looks the part both on and off the field.
Tienie Struwig, the chairman of the Flamingo Tug of War Club, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the sponsors who have generously supported the club. “We are immensely grateful for the sponsors who have joined forces with us to bolster our club,” remarked Struwig.
“Their contributions have enabled us to present ourselves with pride and professionalism, both on and off the field. As a club, we are committed to representing our sponsors with the utmost dedication and ensuring that their support is repaid with our best efforts.”
And it’s not just about looking the part – the Flamingo Tug of War Club boasts some outstanding athletes among its ranks. With two female senior Springbok pullers leading the charge, the club has already made its mark on the national stage. Under Coach Louw’s guidance, these athletes continue to excel, inspiring future generations of tug-of-war enthusiasts.
As the Flamingo Tug of War Club continues to grow and thrive, Kimberley’s reputation as a hub for sports enthusiasts receives a significant boost. With upcoming events like the Regional Club Championships on February 24 and the SA Juniors from March 14 to 16 set to draw crowds of thousands to Kimberley, the city’s status as a sporting destination is firmly cemented.
And with SuperSport Schools set to broadcast the action live, the Flamingo Tug of War Club is poised to showcase the best of Kimberley’s sporting talent to audiences far and wide.
In a world where sports come and go, the Flamingo Tug of War Club is pulling the city into the limelight one tug at a time.
