Drawing on the Japanese concept of ‘Yaruki’, Andre Markgraaff vividly portrayed the determination, resilience, and unwavering will to succeed demonstrated by Japan during their victory over the Springboks during the World Cup in 2015, qualities that deeply resonate within Griquas Rugby.
At a recent event where new sponsors were being introduced, Andre Markgraaff, Chairman of the Board of Directors for Griqualand West Rugby, expressed gratitude and a sense of anticipation for what lies ahead for the Union. He thanked the steadfast supporters and allies of Griquas, promising a brighter future ahead.
Markgraaff began his address with a poignant tribute, expressing heartfelt gratitude to Heineken SA (Windhoek Draught) and Namibian Breweries for their steadfast belief and enduring support over six impactful years.
With sincerity, he highlighted the remarkable contributions of Mr. Wessie van der Westhuizen, whose unwavering commitment has been instrumental in laying the foundation for rugby’s growth in the Northern Cape, thus setting an indelible stage for future endeavours.
As a testament to the collaborative spirit driving Griquas’ journey, Markgraaff extended gratitude to a cohort of secondary sponsors, which includes stalwarts such as GIC, SixGunGrill, Fidelity, and Build It, while warmly welcoming recent additions Coca-Cola and Afrimat.
Of particular note, Markgraaff emphasised Afrimat’s local roots, heralding their arrival as a testament to the region’s burgeoning rugby community and expressing eagerness for the possibilities that lie ahead in their partnership.
Seamlessly transitioning from expressions of gratitude to moments of reflection, Markgraaff highlighted a pivotal chapter in rugby history — the iconic showdown between Japan and South Africa at the 2015 Rugby World Cup, where a determined Japanese team beat the odds-on favourite South African juggernaut 34-32 in what is still one of the biggest upsets in World Rugby.
Drawing on the Japanese concept of ‘Yaruki’, Markgraaff vividly portrayed the determination, resilience, and unwavering will to succeed demonstrated by the Brave Blossoms during the match, qualities that deeply resonate within Griquas Rugby. Markgraaff drew parallels between the indomitable spirit displayed by the Japanese national rugby team and Griquas’ own ethos, emphasising the shared values of passion and perseverance that serve as the bedrock of both entities.
It was at this point during proceedings, amidst an atmosphere thick with anticipation, that Markgraaff made a momentous announcement, introducing Suzuki as Griquas’ new title sponsor, marking the dawn of a new era of partnership and potential. With Suzuki Griquas poised and primed to make an indelible mark on the provincial rugby landscape, Markgraaff warmly welcomed Suzuki representatives, expressing heartfelt gratitude for their generous sponsorship and unwavering commitment to the Griquas way of life.
Looking towards the horizon with optimism and purpose, Markgraaff pledged Griquas’ steadfast dedication to elevating Suzuki’s profile across South Africa. He envisioned a future where the partnership between Griquas Rugby and Suzuki blossomed into a period of excellence and mutual success, both on and off the field.
In closing, Markgraaff extended some final words of gratitude to all supporters, stakeholders, and partners, reaffirming Griqua Rugby’s unwavering commitment to honouring their relationships and embracing the journey ahead with passion, resilience, and unwavering determination.
