The Prince of Wales recently revisited his rugby skills during an engaging visit to a township outside Cape Town. Arriving in South Africa on Monday, Prince William’s trip centers around his Earthshot environmental prize and support for youth empowerment.
During his visit, he interacted with children from the Ocean View, Masiphumelele, and Langa townships. Many of these children face challenging home lives, and rugby serves as a vital tool for community unity and mentorship.
The prince was guided by some of South Africa’s most renowned rugby players, including former Springboks Joel Stransky and Percy Montgomery. However, it was the presence of Tendai Mtawarira, affectionately known as “The Beast,” that sparked nostalgic memories for Prince William.
“The last time I shook his hand was back in 2013 in Cardiff where we’d just won the Prince of Wales cup against Wales,” Mtawarira recalled. “I was only wearing my towel… so he said it was a change for me to be fully dressed.”
Prince William also participated in a training session, where he demonstrated his willingness to engage, proving that his royal status didn’t shield him from a few rough tackles.
One enthusiastic participant, Tom Solimi from Ocean View Secondary School, expressed his aspirations to join the South African Springboks.
“It was just a game… We wanted to play a little game to make him welcome, and we really enjoyed it,” Solimi shared.
This visit was orchestrated by the Atlas Charity, founded by England’s 2003 Rugby World Cup winner, Jason Leonard. Leonard emphasized the importance of such gatherings:
“Some of the boys and girls want to get away from their normal home life… they come to a place like this that is a safe sanctuary.”
As Prince William prepares for the upcoming Earthshot Prize awards ceremony, which aims to recognize innovative eco-friendly solutions globally with each winner receiving £1 million, he continues to inspire youth leaders in environmental initiatives.
During his time in Cape Town, he met with 120 young individuals from across Africa and Southeast Asia involved in the Earthshot Climate Leaders Youth Programme. He encouraged them by stating:
“What you’re going to do is change the world… You are creating solutions and a better life for all of us.”
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